Which Topsoil Is Right for You?

A quick guide to choosing the best soil for your lawn, garden, or grading project

When it comes to landscaping, topsoil isn’t one-size-fits-all. The type of soil you choose can make or break the success of your lawn, flower beds, or vegetable garden. So how do you know which topsoil is right for your project?

Let’s break it down in simple terms — whether you’re seeding a new lawn, topping up garden beds, or leveling your yard.

1. Screened Topsoil – Best for Grading & Lawn Prep

What it is: Screened topsoil is native soil that’s been filtered to remove large debris like rocks, sticks, and clumps. It has a loamy texture and works well as a base layer for most landscaping projects.

Best for:

• New lawns (before sod or seed)

• Filling low spots

• General yard leveling

• Under garden soil or triple mix

Local tip: In Ottawa’s clay-heavy areas, screened topsoil helps improve drainage and gives sod a solid foundation to root.

2. Garden Soil – Best for Flower Beds & Vegetables

What it is: Garden soil is a blend of screened topsoil mixed with organic compost or peat. It’s more nutrient-rich and better at retaining moisture than plain topsoil.

Best for:

• Flower beds

• Raised vegetable gardens

• Planters and borders

• Top-dressing around shrubs

Bonus: It’s darker in colour and gives beds a neat, well-kept appearance.

3. Triple Mix – Best All-Around Soil for Plant Growth

What it is:A 3-way blend of screened topsoil, peat moss, and compost. Triple mix offers excellent drainage, moisture retention, and nutrients all in one.

Best for:

• Amending poor soil

• Starting new gardens

• Improving soil structure for perennials or trees

Why it’s popular: If you’re not sure which soil to choose — triple mix is the most versatile option for healthy growth and root development.

4. Lawn Soil – Best for Overseeding or Sod Touch-Ups

What it is: A fine blend of topsoil and organic matter, screened for even texture. It allows for good seed-to-soil contact and helps hold moisture at the surface.

Best for:

• Overseeding existing lawns

• Touch-ups after laying sod

• Repairing bare patches

Pro tip:Rake lawn soil in a thin layer over existing grass before spreading seed for even germination.

How Much Soil Do You Need?

Use the volume calculator on our homepage to determine how many cubic yards you’ll need based on the length, width, and depth of your area. Or reach out and we’ll help you estimate based on your project type.

We Deliver Bulk Soil Across Ottawa

Order by the yard and choose pickup or local delivery. Whether you’re working on a small garden or a large lawn installation, we’ll make sure you get the right soil for the job.