THE TOP OF THE SOIL
Where Roots Like to Roam
“Topsoil” is one of the haziest terms used by gardeners — and by those who sell the stuff. After all, topsoil is nothing more than the top layer of soil.
And what’s so special about this layer of soil? Under natural conditions, topsoil is the most fertile portion of soil. In the forest each autumn, leaves fall on the surface of the ground, where they are digested by soil life to release nutrients and create soil organic matter. In meadows, including prairies, the topsoil each year is similarly enriched by the remains of old roots, leaves, and stems of flowers and grasses.
Lush meadow above ground, rich soil below ground
