To determine how much topsoil you need, follow these steps:
- Measure the area you want to cover by length and width (in meters or feet).
- Decide the depth of topsoil required, which depends on your project:
- Lawns: 100 to 150 mm (4 to 6 inches)
- General gardening/planting: 150 to 200 mm (6 to 9 inches)
- Vegetable growing:
- Root vegetables (potatoes, carrots): 300 to 400 mm (1 to 1.5 feet)
- Salad vegetables, beans, courgettes: 150 to 200 mm (6 to 8 inches)
- Calculate the volume of topsoil needed by multiplying length × width × depth (all in meters for cubic meters, or feet for cubic feet). For example, an area of 10 m by 15 m with a 150 mm (0.15 m) depth requires:
10×15×0.15=22.5 cubic meters10\times 15\times 0.15=22.5\text{ cubic meters}10×15×0.15=22.5 cubic meters
- Convert volume to weight or bags if needed. Topsoil density varies but is roughly 1.3 to 1.7 tonnes per cubic meter depending on moisture and compaction. Knowing the volume helps you order bulk or bags accurately
Alternatively, you can use online topsoil calculators where you input your area and depth, and they provide the exact amount needed in cubic meters, cubic yards, tons, or number of bags
. Summary:
- Measure area (length × width)
- Choose depth based on use (e.g., 100-150 mm for lawns)
- Calculate volume (length × width × depth)
- Convert volume to weight or bags for ordering
This method ensures you order the right amount of topsoil without waste or shortage.
