If you are wondering why your plants and vegetables are failing to flourish, the answer could lie in the type of soil you are using. This is where blended soil comes in.
Anyone green-fingered might have heard of the term ‘blended soil’, but those of us new to gardening may not be as familiar with the phrase. In this article, we will explain what blended soil is and discuss when you should use it. We’ll also explain the advantages of introducing different types of blended soil into your garden and what their uses are.
What is Blended Soil?
So, what is blended soil? Blended soil is a good description for a custom-made mix created by combining different types of soil. This is often done due to different types of soil having certain nutrients and properties. Whilst certain blends promote vegetable growth, others are more suitable for landscaping. Examples of what can be added to a soil blend include:
- Natural topsoil
- Organic matter, such as compost or green waste
- Sand or grit for improved drainage
- Sometimes additives like bark fines or fertilisersÂ
What Are the Different Types of Soil Blends?
There are various types of soil blends available, including:
- Garden Soil Blend – This usually includes topsoil, compost and sand or perlite, and is intended for use in vegetable patches and flower beds.
- Potting Soil – Formulated for potted plants and commonly made up of peat moss, perlite, vermiculite and compost.
- Lawn/Turf Soil – Created for lawn preparation and consisting of a blend of topsoil, sand and compost or manure.
- Acidic Soil Blend – Designed for plants that thrive in acidic conditions, such as blueberries and azaleas, and may contain peat moss, composted leaves and pine bark.
When Should You Use Blended Soil?
Blended soil is widely used in domestic gardens and larger landscaping projects. Examples include flower beds, turfing and lawns, raised beds, planters and general landscaping. By using the right soil blend, you can improve fertility and drainage, ensuring your soil remains consistent.
Not all soil blends are made equally. So, when it comes to buying blended soil, it’s worth inspecting it for quality. A good soil blend will be finer and free of debris and other foreign objects. If in doubt, ask an expert.
Blended Soil: Final Thoughts
We hope this article has given some insight into soil blends and how to use them to your advantage. Here at Bexley Sand and Ballast, we are a blended soil supplier with a wealth of knowledge on how blended soil can facilitate your garden or landscaping project. Why not speak to a member of our team today to find out more?