When starting a landscaping project, one of the most crucial decisions is selecting the right type of topsoil. Whether you’re laying down fresh sod, planting a lush garden, or levelling uneven ground, the soil you choose will determine your project’s success. However, many homeowners and contractors overlook the importance of soil quality, assuming that all dirt is the same. This is far from the truth.

One of the biggest choices you’ll face is whether to use screened or unscreened topsoil. The difference between the two may not seem significant at first, but it can impact everything from plant growth to drainage and ease of use. Using the wrong type of soil can lead to stunted plants, poor water absorption, and even costly rework. Understanding the distinctions between these two soil types will help you make an informed decision and avoid unnecessary frustration. In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between screened and unscreened topsoil, their best uses, and how to choose the right type for your project.

What is Unscreened Topsoil?

Unscreened topsoil is exactly what its name suggests—natural soil that has not been processed through a screening machine to remove debris, large rocks, roots, and clumps. It is sourced directly from excavation sites, agricultural land, or natural deposits and is typically rich in organic matter, minerals, and microorganisms that contribute to soil fertility.

Because it is in its natural state, unscreened topsoil often contains a mix of textures, including clay, silt, and sand, along with organic debris like small twigs, stones, and plant material. While some of these components can benefit soil structure and fertility, their presence also makes unscreened topsoil less uniform and harder to work with compared to screened soil.

Characteristics of Unscreened Topsoil

Higher Organic Content – Since it hasn’t been processed, unscreened topsoil retains more natural organic matter. This can benefit plant growth by enriching the soil with essential nutrients over time.
Uneven Texture – The presence of clumps, rocks, and debris can make spreading and levelling more difficult. This rougher texture may not be suitable for precise landscaping tasks.
Variable Composition – Since it is sourced naturally, the composition of unscreened topsoil can vary based on where it was collected. Some batches may be loamy and nutrient-rich, while others could contain a high percentage of clay or sand.

Best Uses for Unscreened Topsoil

Unscreened topsoil is best used for applications where precision and fine texture aren’t necessary. Some ideal uses include:

Filling Holes & Leveling Ground – If you need to fill a low spot in your yard, repair a hole left by tree removal, or add mass to an area before finishing it with another soil type, unscreened topsoil is an economical and effective option.
Base Layer for Lawns & Gardens – While unscreened soil isn’t ideal as a top layer, it can serve as a nutrient-rich base before adding a layer of screened soil or compost. This combination helps reduce costs while still providing a strong foundation for plant growth.
Building Berms or Mounds – Unscreened soil works well for creating landscape features like berms (raised mounds used for drainage control and visual interest) because it provides structure and volume at a lower cost than finer soils.
Natural Areas & Wildlife Habitat Projects – If you’re working on a project that aims to restore natural habitats, such as planting native trees or wildflowers, unscreened topsoil can help retain natural biodiversity without excessive refinement.

Potential Drawbacks of Unscreened Topsoil

While unscreened topsoil is a great option for certain projects, it does come with some limitations:

Harder to Work With – Because it contains clumps and rocks, it can be more difficult to spread evenly, requiring additional effort to break up chunks or remove debris.
Not Ideal for Planting Beds or Lawns – If you’re seeding a lawn or planting a delicate flower garden, the presence of rocks and debris can hinder root development and make it harder for seeds to establish.
Possible Weed Seeds & Contaminants – Since unscreened soil isn’t filtered, it may contain weed seeds or other unwanted organic matter, which could require additional maintenance over time.

Unscreened topsoil is a great choice for large-scale landscaping projects, foundational soil work, and budget-conscious applications. It provides a natural and nutrient-rich option for those who don’t need finely sifted soil. However, it’s important to consider its rough texture, potential debris, and workability before choosing it for your project.

What is Screened Topsoil?

Screened topsoil is regular topsoil that has been processed through a screening machine to remove debris such as rocks, large clumps of soil, roots, and other organic matter. This screening process results in a fine, uniform texture that is much easier to work with, making it a preferred choice for many landscaping and gardening applications.

Screening not only improves the soil’s consistency and workability, but it also ensures that it is free from large obstructions that could interfere with plant growth. The process typically involves passing the soil through a mesh or sieve of a specific size, usually ½ inch to ¾ inch in diameter, to ensure a smooth and even composition.

Because of its refined texture, screened topsoil is ideal for projects that require precision, easy spreading, and optimal plant growth.

Characteristics of Screened Topsoil

Fine, Uniform Texture – The screening process removes large particles and debris, resulting in soil that is easy to spread and level.
Better Drainage & Aeration – With a consistent particle size, screened topsoil promotes better water flow and oxygen circulation, which is essential for plant roots.
Easier to Work With – Whether you’re using a shovel, rake, or machinery, screened topsoil spreads evenly and smoothly, reducing manual labour and improving efficiency.
Fewer Contaminants – Removing rocks, roots, and other unwanted materials makes screened soil a cleaner option for gardening, landscaping, and lawn care.

Best Uses for Screened Topsoil

Screened topsoil is ideal for projects that require high-quality, refined soil. Some of its best applications include:

New Lawn Installation – When laying sod or seeding a lawn, using screened topsoil ensures a smooth, rock-free surface that promotes healthy grass growth.
Garden Beds & Flower Beds – Plants thrive in well-aerated, nutrient-rich soil. Screened topsoil provides an ideal environment for vegetables, flowers, and ornamental plants.
Topdressing & Soil Amendment – Screened topsoil is often used to revitalize existing lawns and gardens by adding a fresh layer of rich, uniform soil to improve growth conditions.
Levelling & Grading – Because it is easy to spread and shape, screened topsoil is perfect for smoothing out uneven ground, filling low spots, and creating smooth surfaces.
Landscaping Around Walkways & Patios – When used as a base layer for landscaping projects, screened topsoil helps create a clean, structured foundation for decorative elements.

Potential Drawbacks of Screened Topsoil

Despite its many advantages, screened topsoil does come with a few considerations:

May Contain Fewer Natural Nutrients – While still nutrient-rich, screened soil may lose some organic material during the screening process. This can be remedied by mixing in compost or other soil amendments.
Can Settle Over Time – Because it is fine and less compacted than unscreened soil, screened topsoil may settle more quickly when exposed to rain and heavy foot traffic. Adding a stabilizing base layer of unscreened topsoil can help prevent this.

Screened topsoil is the go-to choice for projects that require precision, easy application, and optimal plant growth. Its fine, debris-free texture makes it ideal for gardens, new lawns, and landscaping work where smoothness and workability matter.

Screened vs. Unscreened Topsoil

When choosing the right type of topsoil for your project, understanding the differences between screened and unscreened soil is essential. The choice can impact everything from plant growth to cost and maintenance. Below, we break down the key distinctions to help you determine which option best suits your needs.

Texture & Consistency

Screened Topsoil: This soil undergoes a filtering process to remove large debris, such as rocks, sticks, and clumps. The result is a fine, smooth texture that is easy to spread and work with. It provides a uniform consistency, making it ideal for gardening and landscaping applications where precision matters.

Unscreened Topsoil: In contrast, unscreened topsoil is rougher and clumpier. It often contains organic materials, rocks, and other natural debris. While this can be beneficial for certain applications, it also makes the soil less predictable in texture and harder to work with for detailed projects.

Plant Growth & Drainage

Screened Topsoil: Because it is free from large particles and compacted materials, screened topsoil allows for strong root development and better drainage. This promotes healthier plant growth and ensures that water moves efficiently through the soil, reducing the risk of waterlogging.

Unscreened Topsoil: The presence of compacted materials and debris in unscreened topsoil can hinder water movement. Poor drainage can lead to standing water and root rot in certain plants. Additionally, roots may struggle to penetrate compacted areas, leading to stunted growth.

Cost Considerations

Screened Topsoil: Due to the additional processing required to remove debris, screened topsoil tends to be more expensive. However, its higher quality and ease of use can save time and labour costs in the long run.

Unscreened Topsoil: This option is generally more affordable because it does not go through an extensive screening process. However, the lower price may come with added labour costs, as you might need to manually filter out debris or amend the soil before use.

Application Suitability

Screened Topsoil: Its fine, consistent texture makes it perfect for gardens, lawns, flower beds, and landscaping projects that require smooth coverage. It’s also excellent for laying sod and seeding grass, as it provides an even surface for roots to establish.

Unscreened Topsoil: Due to its rough texture and mixed composition, unscreened topsoil is best suited for filling large areas, such as leveling land, creating base layers for construction, or backfilling trenches. It provides bulk material for large-scale projects but may not be ideal for direct planting.

Maintenance & Preparation

Screened Topsoil: One of the main advantages of screened soil is its readiness for use. Since it has already been processed, there is no need for additional sieving or manual filtering. This makes it a convenient choice for homeowners and landscapers alike.

Unscreened Topsoil: If you choose unscreened topsoil, you may need to put in extra effort to remove large debris before using it for gardens or lawns. Depending on its composition, you might also need to mix it with compost or other amendments to improve its nutrient content and structure.

Environmental Impact & Sustainability

Screened Topsoil: The screening process helps repurpose filtered materials, reducing waste. By removing unwanted elements, screened soil ensures that only high-quality material is used, minimizing environmental impact while enhancing plant health.

Unscreened Topsoil: Since it retains more of its natural composition, unscreened soil may include organic debris that can contribute to soil fertility over time. However, it may also contain unwanted materials, such as invasive seeds or contaminants, which could impact plant growth and sustainability.

Selecting the right topsoil is crucial for the success of any landscaping, gardening, or construction project. Screened topsoil is the ideal choice for gardens, lawns, and planting due to its fine texture, aeration benefits, and ability to support healthy root growth. It offers superior drainage, ensuring plants receive the right balance of moisture and oxygen. While it comes at a higher price, the ease of use and improved results make it a worthwhile investment.

On the other hand, unscreened topsoil is a cost-effective solution for large-scale filling, levelling, and foundational work. Its natural composition makes it suitable for construction-grade applications where precision is less critical. However, it may require additional preparation before use in gardening or landscaping.

Ultimately, choosing the appropriate topsoil ensures better plant growth, proper drainage, and a successful project outcome. Whether you prioritize convenience and consistency or affordability and bulk coverage, understanding the key differences will help you make the best decision for your specific needs.

At Soil Kings, we take pride in offering Calgary’s finest screened topsoil, processed through a ½” (12 mm) screen for superior quality. With next-day delivery and a commitment to premium bulk landscaping supplies, we ensure you get the best materials for your project—without the middleman. Contact us to place your order today!

Screened vs Unscreened Topsoil: What is the Difference?

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