Soil Testing for Best Results

Not all topsoil is created equal. In Berks County, some areas offer naturally rich soil, while others lack essential nutrients and structure. Therefore, soil testing becomes a crucial first step in achieving healthy lawns and gardens. At Ridgewood Soils, we always recommend starting with a professional test through Penn State’s Agricultural Analytical Services Lab. This analysis will help you understand exactly what your soil needs—whether it’s nutrient enrichment, pH adjustment, or increased organic matter.

Why Soil Testing Matters

Although soil might appear fine on the surface, it can hide issues below. Common problems include low organic content, unbalanced pH levels, and a lack of essential nutrients. Fortunately, you can correct these issues once a soil test identifies them. This is why we blend our Top Dressing—to maintain consistent nutrient levels, pH balance, and organic content in every batch.

What Is Top Dressing?

Top Dressing is a blended material we produce using compost, sand, and soil. Each component serves a purpose, and together they create a nutrient-rich, aerated growing medium.

Benefits of Using Top Dressing

1. Improved Root Aeration
   By reducing clay content, the blend loosens compacted soil and allows roots to grow freely.
2. Enhanced Nutrient Levels
   The added compost provides steady, natural nutrients that support long-term plant health and reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers.
3. Better Water Management
   Thanks to its structure, top dressing allows water to soak into the ground instead of running off the surface.
4. Reduced Compaction
   Less compact soil means roots can spread easily, resulting in stronger, healthier turf and plants.

Why Proper Topsoil Screening Is Essential

Contrary to popular belief, a certain amount of stone in topsoil is beneficial. It helps prevent over-compaction and improves drainage. That’s why we screen our topsoil to ½ inch—about the size of a fingernail. If we screened it finer, it would lose essential structure and harm plant growth rather than help it.

What Happens During Rainfall?

If you skip straw mulching, rain may wash away some soil, leaving the stones on the surface. This is normal. Instead of removing the stones, allow grass seed to take root. As the grass grows, the stones will naturally settle back into the soil, helping it remain loose and functional.

Top Dressing vs. Screened Topsoil

We offer two main options: Top Dressing and Screened Topsoil. Both serve different purposes depending on your project.

Screened Topsoil is natural soil processed to remove large debris. However, much of the topsoil in Berks County has high clay content and only 2% to 4% organic matter—about half that of our Top Dressing. While clay holds moisture, which helps seed germinate quickly, it also hardens over time. As a result, this can make future aeration difficult.

Top Dressing, on the other hand, offers a balanced solution. It provides the organic content, structure, and drainage needed for long-term health and ease of maintenance.

Still Have Questions?

If you’re unsure which soil is right for your project, we’re here to help. Visit our FAQ page or contact Ridgewood Soils directly. We’ll guide you toward the best option for your landscape goals.

Start your next project with the confidence that your soil is setting the stage for success—because strong roots begin with the right foundation.