There are two main types of soils that gardeners should learn about. This includes the starting soil and the garden soil.
What is the difference of garden and starting soil?
Learning about the two types is important before making the right selection.
- Garden soil
The garden soil is the topsoil containing extra organic matter from the garden. This is the soil that is of great benefit to the plants.
It has some different fertility that comes from organic matter. Experts highlight that garden soil is prepared for specific purposes.
Garden soil is more common for planting vegetables. It is also great for the flower garden. This is because it is also well controlled in the nutrient and moisture content.
- Starting soil
Starting soil is the soil mixture that provides a ground for germinating seeds. It is considered an ideal environment for seed germination. However, it is not the best soil that can be used for long-term planting.
A few differences can be listed to identify starting soil and garden soil. This article provides a guide to some of these differences.
Differences in soil composition
One of the major differences between the garden and the starting soil is the composition. Experts inform that the starting mix is not composed of soil mix only.
It has some additional components that add nutrients to the mixture. This is different from the garden soil, which is composed of topsoil. It does not have any other components.
The composition in the starting mix can include some fluffy materials, including rice hulls and coconut coir. The materials are added to the mix to help maintain the moisture content.
They are also important for adding more nutrients to the mixture. The garden soil only has the naturally available nutrients from the top soil.
The composition of each soil is prepared for specific purposes. The starting mix is prepared for seedlings. The garden soil is prepared for planting other varieties, including vegetables.
It is critical to note that the starting mix can take longer to prepare because it includes different components. This is unlike the garden soil. That is easy to collect and use for planting.
Differences in soil texture
The texture is the other big difference between the garden soil and the starting soil. The garden soil is smooth in texture because it is a collection of topsoil.
This differs from the starting mixture, which includes some fluffy components. The starting mix has a rough texture dependent on the selected components.
The starting mix is also lightweight and airier than the garden soil. This is why it works great for the seedlings.
The garden soil can be heavier, especially if collected from a sample of soils with a heavy texture. This is considered good for supporting older plants and not the seedlings.
The garden soil is also considered more compact than the starting mix. This is especially when the soil is watered. The topsoil has a high ability to hold moisture.
This makes the soil hard, especially when it dries up. On the other hand, the starting mix is less compact. It has better drainage and infiltration of the water.
Difference in usage
It is also important to note that there are different uses for both the starting and the garden soil. They cannot be used for similar purposes in growing plants.
This is because the soils are diverse in content and quality. There is a need to know how each soil works best.
- Garden soil usage
The garden soil works best as the top soil in a garden. With good organic matter, the garden soil supports the growth of mature plants.
The starting soil is used differently to create an environment for seedlings. The difference is that a gardener can select diverse uses for each type of soil.
- Starting mix usage
However, the starting mix can easily be altered in content compared to the garden soil. It is why it is preferable in most cases by experts in gardening.
It is, however, necessary to note that both types of soil can equally support plant growth when well prepared.
For the starting soil, it does well as a potting mix that can germinate seeds. This soil gives an excellent start in life for the seeds.
The seeds can later be transplanted in a garden for planting. On the other hand, the garden soil works best in the garden, including raised beds.
Overall, there is no major difference between the garden soil and starting soil. However, the difference is evident in the composition and use. It would be difficult for a gardener to identify the differences.
Guidance from soil experts is recommended to understand how to differentiate these soils. It is the best way to perfectly use the soil for the right purpose in your gardening.