Deciding on a way to make topsoil better can depend on the existing quality of the topsoil, however, there are several ways to do this.
Soil balance is a useful way for garden keepers to learn about the workings of their topsoil and therefore to be able to improve it. The balance of topsoil is a great way to learn about the chemical and physical properties of topsoil. This also means that topsoil chemistry and physics as well as biology are learnt about further ensuring that nutrients and structure are perfectly balanced.
The Mikhail system is well-known for topsoil balance maintenance. This system of topsoil balancing focuses firstly on the soil’s structure which enables good friability and topsoil composition so that living organisms can flourish. Topsoil is a little like the body of humans which needs a skeleton on which its other body components can be attached. Potassium, Hydrogen, Magnesium, Sodium and Calcium are all essential elements in good healthy Topsoil.
Biology and nutrients are kept in order within the topsoil by use of the Mikhail system. The structure then also needs to be balanced. Essential elements for plant nutrition are Phosphorous, Potassium, Nitrogen and Sulphur. Fertilisers can be added to provide a needed nutrient boost once the topsoil structure has been improved. Most general garden fertilisers are based on NPK, which provides these essential chemical elements. Topsoils also need to have the correct levels of trace elements.
One way to find out where topsoil is failing in terms of make-up is by testing it. This can be done using testing kits for soil, which will provide the necessary information for the gardener. The required fertiliser, lime and other soil improving material can then be obtained to ensure that the topsoil performs better.
