Cambridge Garden Centre

Common Myths About Screened Soil Debunked

In gardening and landscaping, screened soil is frequently recommended as essential for healthy plants and well-kept lawns. However, there are numerous myths about what screened soil can and cannot do. Here at Cambridge Garden Centre, we think that it’s essential to give gardeners the truth and make sure you can make an informed decision on how best to proceed with your outdoor projects.

Myth 1: You Need to Be a Professional Landscaper to Use Screened Soil

Many people believe that screened soil is something only experienced gardeners and landscapers use. The truth is that screened topsoil is just right for any gardening aficionado – whether you’re a homeowner laying flower beds or an enthusiast growing vegetables —with its light texture for easy use and consistent blending in mixed soils for optimal root growth.

Myth #2: Screened Soil Is Fertilized or High in Nutrients

Others think screened soil is already loaded with nutrients or fertilizer. Although screened soil is devoid of rocks, debris and large clumps, it’s not pre-loaded with nutrients. To boost your garden or lawn, it’s usually used with compost or organic fertilizers for best results. Screened soil is the blank canvas, if you will; fertilizers and amendments provide the nutrients.

Myth 3: It Costs Too Much and Isn’t Worth It

Another prevalent myth is that screen soil is too expensive for the average homeowner. It may be a little more costly than bulk, unscreened soil, but it’s worth the extra expense. Screened soil saves time and resources by levelling, thwarts weeds, and improves water drainage – all of which will save money over the long run.

Myth 4: Screened Soil is For Lawns Only

Some gardeners believe that screened soil is meant only for making smooth, flat lawns. It’s actually very versatile. It works well for raised garden beds, flower borders, vegetable gardens, and even levelling low areas of a landscape project. Features a lightweight and fine structure to promote good gardening practices, whether used for composting or storing loose materials.

Myth 5: Screened Soil is An Unnecessary Expense on DIY Jobs

Some gardeners believe that they can get away without using screened soil for their DIY projects, and the effort of bringing an excavator to work in the yard would be better off with any old soil. The issue is that unscreened soil generally has rocks, sticks and debris that make planting uneven and rugged. Screened soil has a uniform texture, which helps when planting, levelling and maintaining your garden.

The Bottom Line

Screened soil is no luxury for the professional gardener—instead, it’s a practical, flexible and efficient alternative for both your garden and your lawn. By debunking these myths, homeowners can realize that high-quality screened soil is ultimately better for their plants, making gardening easier while delivering superior results.  

At Cambridge Garden Centre, we offer high-quality screened soil, ideal for gardens, lawns, and any size landscaping project. Come through today to get the perfect soil for your next work and enjoy how good dirt makes a difference!