Top soil

[BRIGHT SPARK]

We have just finished building a property and as a consequence of the build have approx 3000 tons of the original topsoil. This is in a mound twice the size of the house.It has been piled up for about 4 years.Will it still be ok as topsoil or will the lower portion have become less fertile?

[carlton23]

A good question, but I should think the lower soils will need fertilising with some sort of bacteria like manure or other kinds of compost to put life back into it. Soil needs sunlight and rain to replenish its bacteria or like the deserts it will die.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

Thanks Carlton I was under the same impression however others are telling me different.

[carlton23]

Hi Sparky. I`m only giving my opinion, perhaps `others` are correct, try it and see. Best of luck.

[nonomaybe]

If it is topsoil it will be ready to use as it comes but if the subsoil has been put on top that will need "juicing up-usually you can tell the latter from the former as the "sub" is usually a lighter shade and often coarser, chuck in any form of mature, organic matter and you're ready to go.

[carlton23]

nonomaybe...thatsawat I selawed!!!!

[ScottBram]

Hey Bright Spark -
If you want to get rid of a couple of tons I'm filling in a pond and need some cheap (free?) Obviously it depends where you are, I'm in Canterbury.

[BRIGHT SPARK]

You think 3000 tonnes will disappear - i suppose i could put a bit in the bin each week!!!! - my wife's suggestion.