Topsoil & Bark

A typical bulk bag  of topsoil from Mick George will cover an area of roughly  30m2 at a depth of 1”. The number of bulk bags that you require for your project will depend entirely on the area you are looking to cover.

You can use the handy Mick George Aggregate Calculator when placing your topsoil order to ensure that you order the correct quantity.

Screened topsoil is topsoil that has passed through a mechanical screen to remove larger stones, roots, lumps and other debris. Mick George screened topsoil bulk bags are BS3882:2015 certified and can be used for gardening, planting beds, and general landscaping.

Topsoil will provide a good main layer, promoting a structure with quality drainage properties. If you are simply looking to improve existing topsoil, then compost alone would be more suitable.

Green compost is a nutrient rich, decomposed organic material that helps to improves soil, but it’s generally not used as the main growing layer because it can shrink and dry out.

This will depend on the quality of the existing soil. If the soil is in poor condition, or non existent altogether, then you will need to aim for a deeper topsoil profile.

If the existing area is in good condition, then aim to lay your topsoil to a depth of roughly 4 inches as a minimum and 6-7 inches as a maximum.

For raised beds, a mix of both is the best option. Aim to have enough topsoil for structure and bulk, with green compost to provide organic matter and nutrients.

To achieve the perfect mix, you should look to have 70% topsoil and 30% green compost as a guide.

Green compost is compost made mainly from garden and plant waste. Green compost from Mick George can be used for gardening, planting beds, and general landscaping. Composted products work beneficially with fertilizer to improve nutrient use and supply to the plant increasing growth and yields.

Lay bark mulch about 50-75 mm (2-3 inches) deep. Bark mulch does not stop weeds completely but it can suppress them which will reduce weed growth noticeably.

The best time to lay topsoil and compost is generally in the Autumn as higher average rainfall will help the soil to settle. Mulch performs best when laid in the Spring. This is due to the soil being slightly warmer than in Autumn and the soil has had a good amount of time to moisture.