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If you are going to need a lot of topsoil for a construction project, you will need a place to store much of it. Because construction projects can be delayed unexpectedly, it is essential to consider how you store your topsoil so it can effectively serve its purpose. Otherwise, the topsoil will rot and fungus will begin to grow.  How to protect the topsoil is based on how long you will wait before the construction project begins.

Protecting Topsoil For The Short Term

When you will only need to store topsoil for a few weeks, there is nothing that needs to be done to protect the topsoil. For example, you may have an upcoming project and have the topsoil sitting outside. If you will have the topsoil waiting for about one or two months before it will be used, you should use a tarp and stakes to cover the pile of topsoil. The tarp allows for air to flow, but also protects the topsoil from the elements to some extent. If the topsoil does not have enough air flow, this can reduce the integrity of the soil. Topsoil contains living organisms that need to be kept safe. It should not be stored in a location that is very hot.

Storing Topsoil For The Long Term

If the topsoil will be stored for a long period, it makes sense to use a walled structure that can be tarped over. If the topsoil contains compost, it needs to avoid getting rained on because the rain will leach away the nutrients. The top layer should be compacted to avoid erosion. Composting is good for the environment and improves the quality of the topsoil.

Using The Topsoil

Ideally, the topsoil should not be purchased until soon before the construction project. The construction is best performed during your driest season. Rain can cause soil compaction and can also cause topsoil to be carried away. Avoid handling the topsoil under wet conditions. 

Protecting The Topsoil From Weeds

Because the topsoil can be very fertile, weed control might be necessary. A herbicide can be applied to prevent the weeds from growing. However, turfs that are established using the topsoil can be very sensitive to herbicides, so only use herbicide of the weed problem can become very severe. Keeping the topsoil covered can reduce the weed problem because it will prevent the weeds from accessing sunlight. However, the herbicides may be applied if the topsoil will not be used for months.

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