Topsoil, Compost vs Mulch and How to Use Each of Them Correctly
You probably need to know the differences of topsoil, compost vs mulch if you want your plants to grow their best. Organic materials are probably the best types for the plants, but when you don’t know the differences between one another, you can’t really expect the best outcome. It’s crucial to know when, where, and which one to use, so you can minimize mistakes and risks.
About Topsoil
What is topsoil used for? You see, topsoil refers to the outermost and upper soil layer. It is rich in microorganisms and organic matter. Plants commonly get many of their nutrients here, so it’s logical when they concentrate their roots within this layer.
In the old days, topsoil was naturally super thick as well as deep. But the quality has depleted over the years, and it’s made worse by over farming, land clearing, and unsafe unsustainable activities. It’s common now to have very little or even no topsoil. At all.
When you want to grow plants, you need to have good soil rich in microorganisms and nutrients, so your plants can ‘eat’ properly and grow healthy. The best way to do this is to buy the already prepared topsoil. Mix it up with your garden soil and add it before you start planting.
But if you have the time, you can make your own topsoil by gathering discarded fruit, grass clippings, leaves, and others. Create a pile and let it be until it turns into compost. Then mix your compost to your planting area’s top layer and you can start planting.
Topsoil vs Compost
Both are basically made from decomposed (organic) matter. That’s why they are rich in microorganisms and nutrients. They aren’t exactly the same in terms of application. You see, topsoil is used for the landscape filler or building the soil level up. Compost, on the other hand, is used as potting soil or fertilizer for the top layer. Basically, you need to have the topsoil as your planting foundation and then use the compost for fertilizer or extra nutrition. You don’t use compost when you start planting. See the difference here?
About Mulch
What about topsoil, compost vs mulch differences? So, you have the topsoil as the base layer. Then, you add up compost for the enrichment quality. Now, you need something to cover everything up, so the plants will stay moist and cool. You don’t want the weeds to come and wreak havoc in the planting area either.
This is when you use mulch. Mulch has several functions. It will maintain the soil so it remains intact. It prolongs your plants’ life. It wards off weeds. It can add beautiful visual appeal for the landscape. When you leave the topsoil uncovered, you can expose it to erosion (because of the rain) and also overheating. Mulch will provide protection against those elements so your plants can grow healthy and well.
So, in mulch vs compost, the compost is providing the extra nutrients while mulch is about providing coverage and protection.
All these things are organic and natural, but each of them has its own function and use. When you understand the different functions of topsoil, compost vs mulch, you can expect the best outcome from your activity.