Pro Landscaper Soil Supplement 2021

THE

SOIL SUPPLEMENT FEBRUARY 2021

ISSUE SPONSOR

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19/01/2021 11:13

WELCOME

Welcome W elcome to the Pro Landscaper Soil Guide 2021.

How important is choosing the right soil? Maybe much more than you think. Over the years, Pro Landscaper has continued to push the significance of this vital medium or ‘life support’. We have heard and seen so many horror stories, many of these being because

the soil has been purchased on price – and we all know the saying, “buy cheap, buy twice”.

Though of course it could be much more serious than that; not only could you have to remove the poor soil but also be liable to replace anything that has been put on top or into the soil – all potentially at your own cost.

This supplement talks to the experts, explains how you should buy, which soil is

right, how you should be testing it and the questions you should be asking the supply chain. Whether you are a commercial landscaper, domestic landscaper or designer, this supplement will help you.

There have been many advancements in soil technology, and we look at other potential developments. This supplement also includes a roundup of industry-leading suppliers.

THE

SOIL SUPPLEMENT FEBRUARY 2021

Contents 05 06 08

FutureScape VIRTUAL Summary The Great Soil Debate Interview Tim O’Hare

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ISSUE SPONSOR

Barometer Soil market stats from November

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Natural VS Manufactured Soil Boughton Loam Top Tips Domestic Landscapers Top Tips Commercial Landscapers

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Top Tips Garden Designers Keeping It Local Bourne Amenity Future Developments Soil Trends To Look Out For Suppliers Guide Learn more about these successful soil suppliers

Soil Supplement / February 2021

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19/01/2021 11:16

BAROMETER

T

he volume of soil sold went up by an average 16% in November compared to November 2019. The number of quotes also went up by an average of 11% year on year. We will find out in more certain terms in coming issues whether this trend of increased performance will continue through December and into January.

It seems this may be the case though, as one supplier comments: “We are confident that the landscape market is going to continue to be busy, as long as the construction market continues to work this will mean that the landscapers are also busy. We will continue to be confident in the market; we are going to see lots of government money invested into infrastructure in the UK which will be great along the line for the landscape industry.”

Another mentions that “smaller and medium landscapers are still actively busy whilst there is a little bit more caution to larger projects.” This may come down to the fact that larger projects have less flexibility than small and medium sized undertakings.

Lastly, on a positive note, another supplier had this to say: “The future is green. More emphasis on the importance of green spaces bodes well for the industry.”

CONFIDENCE

50%

50%

Equal More

VOLUME SOLD

QUOTES

25%

Lower

Higher

Higher 75% 100% www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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SUMMARY

THE

GREAT SOIL DEBATE

I

t was one of our most-watched seminars at FutureScape VIRTUAL. Hundreds of you tuned in to expand your knowledge and find out more about some of the leading soil suppliers in The Great Soil Debate. Hosted by Pro Landscaper’s Jim Wilkinson, the hour-long seminar covered everything from specifying to testing to British Standards. As Jim says at the start, soil is at the heart of every landscaping project and we’re often told of times when a project has failed because of the wrong soil being specified. The Great Soil Debate can help viewers to match the right soil to the right area.

We’ve tried to summarise as much of the debate as possible, but you can still view the full seminar on futurescapevirtual.com

Importance of soil choice Choosing the wrong soil can be costly for those responsible. They could be liable to replace the soil – and everything which has been planted in it. Whilst Tim O’Hare says awareness of this in the industry is far better than it used to be, it’s still variable; whilst some are clued up, others still view it as ‘just a bit of soil’. “Soils have several functions now. We obviously think of them as a growing medium for all the plants that are going into a landscape scheme, but it’s now being recognised for the other functions, such as their use in SuDS schemes and as a mechanism for remediating contaminated soil,” says Tim. So, it goes without saying that it’s a lot more than just a bit of soil.

Andy Spetch, who has 25 years’ experience in the industry, says he has also seen people’s awareness of its importance grow through the 2007 revision of the

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British Standards and the introduction of the subsoil standard. “Landscaping contractors generally do have good knowledge and they have an awareness of how to handle soils well because they’re often at the very end of the chain and need to pluck all the plants out and sometimes have to guarantee the scheme, so they do understand.” One sector in which he’d like to see improvement in knowledge, though, is housebuilders.

As well as topsoil, the subsoil also needs to be carefully considered. “Get it right first time – [get] the right soil, [look] for credible products and [make] sure the areas are prepared properly as well because, a lot of the time, when there’s a problem with the growing media, it’s the topsoil that’s blamed. But if the subsoil is not prepared correctly, or there are strange elements that haven’t been taken into consideration they can all play major factors into what could be the failing of a soil,” says Mark Wood.

QUESTION FROM THE AUDIENCE “I’m a designer – in what way can suppliers help me with the specification of soil?”

“We can give you examples of where soil has been used in previous projects, if you give us indicators of what the soil is being used for. We can recommend where it’s been used before and historic data and data sheets are available on our website.”

– John Coles, Bury Hill Landscape Supplies

British Standards Is it enough to simply ask suppliers for ‘British Standard soil’? The simple answer is ‘no’. “The British Standard is intended for soils that are moved or traded around places; it’s not intended for soils which are left in situ,” says Tim. “Often, designers use it for circumstances where it’s not intended, such as green roof projects or SuDS or various other high spec projects.”

Whilst Tim says the British Standard overall is a great guide, he would change one thing about it – the permissible amount of silt and clay in soils. “We live in a maritime, temperate climate where it’s wet a lot of the time; soils with very high silt and clay content just completely deteriorate as soon as they’re handled or moved. And that’s not clearly stated when people specify topsoil.”

He adds that people also tend to focus on the main table within the British Standards, Table 1. “There’s a huge amount of other guidance and requirements in the standard involved with soil depth, the sensible depths for placing topsoil, also how best to handle it… people have to understand that British Standard is a guidance document, it’s not a legislative document, and not just focus on whether it passes or fails Table 1 requirements but actually read the rest of the document to see whether it fits the specific criteria for any particular project.”

John Coles adds that British Standard is just the beginning. “The main point is validation. You need to prove that what’s gone to site is fit

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SUMMARY

for purpose and meets the specification and meets also the British Standard. On a lot of the projects we’re involved with, there’s quite strict onsite testing and strict criteria for the use of the material on site.”

QUESTION FROM THE AUDIENCE “When should the soil be tested for a small/medium sized garden?”

“Before it comes to site. Once it comes to site, it’s very difficult to get rid of it.

We do a simple test for the horticultural properties and contaminants and provide an interpretive report which explains all the qualities of the soil.”

- Tim O’Hare, Tim O’Hare Associates

Onsite testing This can vary massively, Tim says. For very high performance soil, a test every 100m3 would be ideal, but a minimum of three samples should be taken to provide three sets of data, in case of abnormalities. On large projects, one in every 1,000m3 is acceptable, and when importing soils to site over a sixmonth period, for instance, a sample should be taken at least every couple of months to confirm the soils are consistent in quality. The cost of onsite testing lies with the contractor.

“It should be put into the bill of quantities for the project, so it’s ultimately picked up by the client at the end of the day… the soil supplier should provide an indication of the quality of their soil, but ongoing testing should be built into the contract for the specific job it’s used for. A full British Standard test, which includes contamination, is around £300.”

Questioning suppliers Where has the material come from? Is it a single source? Is it manufactured? What previous projects has it been used? These are

all questions landscapers should be asking, says John.

“Challenge the paperwork. Challenge us for data; as suppliers, we should be able to supply up-to-date analysis and any historic analysis,” adds Mark.

For Bourne Amenity, Drew Wetherell says site visits are encouraged to give confidence on how the soil is being produced. As Andy says, “Designers [and] contractors will go to look at nursery stock [to select trees and shrubs] – they should be doing the same with soil.”

What about price? “When somebody’s got a cheaper soil, you must ask: why is it cheaper?”, says Tim. Some companies recover soil from demolition sites, which will sometimes be sold as ‘uncertified soil’. “These guys are paid to take the waste away from sites, therefore they get paid at the front end, so they don’t need as much money when they’re selling the soil… where all these guys” – referring to the panellists – “are actually buying the components or processing the components, so their margins are much tighter.”

QUESTION FROM THE AUDIENCE “When designers get a soil certificate, what should they expect to see has been tested?”

“The certificate should be in date, and no older than three months, ideally no older than one month if it’s representing the soil they’re going to be delivered with. It should contain a series of horticultural parameters related to the British Standard, for example, and some contamination tests to confirm the soil is clean and uncontaminated. It should have an interpretation of the results that explains exactly how good the soils is.”

Tim O’Hare, Tim O’Hare Associates

PA N E L L I STS TIM O’HARE | SOIL S C I E N T I ST, T I M O ’ H A R E A S S O C I AT E S

DREW WETHERELL | S A L E S M A N AG E R , B O U R N E A M E N I T Y LT D

A N DY S P E TC H | N AT I O N A L TO P S O I L M A N AG E R , B R I T I S H S U G A R TO P S O I L

M A R K WO O D | B U S I N E S S D E V E L O P M E N T D I R E C TO R , G R E E N -T E C H

JOHN COLES | D I R E C TO R , B U R Y H I L L LANDCAPE SUPPLIES

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INTERVIEW

AN INTERVIEW WITH

TIM O’HARE

W I T H 2 5 Y E A R S O F E X P E R I E N C E , T H E R E ’ S N OT M U C H T I M O’ H A R E D O E S N ’ T K N O W A B O U T S O I L . W E D I S C U S S I N D U ST R Y C H A N G E S , U N D E R TA K I N G T E STS A N D S U R V E YS , A N D S O I L’ S R O L E I N O U R F I G H T AG A I N ST C L I M AT E C H A N G E How do you undertake a soil survey on site and what are you testing for?

There are two types of soil surveys, depending on whether the site is greenfield or brownfield.

If it is a greenfield development site, we would normally carry out a Soil Resource Survey.

The aim is to establish what types of soil are present on site. This involves constructing trial holes at representative locations to a depth of about 400mm using a spade in order to expose the topsoil and upper subsoil.

We examine and record various in-situ soil properties such as topsoil depth, soil structure, texture, drainage characteristics, compaction pans, etc. We also excavate down to about 1.2m using a soil auger to assess the subsoil, which is particularly important for tree planting and any SuDS design.

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We take soil samples for laboratory analysis to test the soil composition.

Tests usually include pH value, salinity, nutrient levels, organic matter, microbe populations, particle size analysis, contaminants, etc.

The findings are presented in an interpretive report that confirms the topsoil quantity and the quality of the site soils for future landscaping, albeit trees, shrubs, amenity grass or biodiverse habitats. If the landscape design is in progress, the report will comment on the suitability of the soils to the chosen plant species/communities, and advise on the measures necessary to safely recover, store and ameliorate the soils to ensure it is fit for purpose after construction works.

If the site is brownfield, we will re-interpret the engineer’s ground investigation report to understand if the site soils can be used

IF WE DO OUR SURVEYS AT THE START OF A PROJECT, RATHER THAN HALFWAY THROUGH, WE CAN PROVIDE THE RIGHT GUIDANCE for landscaping, as subsoil and/or for topsoil manufacture. We will then determine what imported soils are required and develop the www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/01/2021 15:51

INTERVIEW necessary soil specifications for their import.

We then test these soils to ensure they are compliant with the specification.

Is there such a thing as poor soil?

‘Poor soil’ is an interesting term. Some of the best agricultural soils make the worst landscape soils because they do not recover well after having been stripped and stockpiled for several months. Likewise, a highly fertile soil, rich in phosphorous, would be regarded as a poor choice for species-rich grassland establishment, but would be welcomed for a new sports pitch or for tree and shrub planting. It depends on the intended use of the soil. For many projects we use several soil types in order to deliver the correct soil properties for the range of landscape typologies proposed. Climate, programme and available soil resources also play a part.

Probably the best topsoil I have manufactured was for Commonwealth Park in Gibraltar. The choice of soil materials was very limited but we engineered a superb topsoil from geological limestone clay and horse manure.

In general terms, so called ‘skip waste soils’ that are sold as ‘topsoil’ but come from waste recovery operations are particularly problematic and generally ‘poor’ for most landscape applications. High pH, high salinity, low organic matter, low nitrogen, low microbe population and the high risk of containing chemical and/or physical contaminants are their typical characteristics.

You’ve been in the industry for 25 years.

How are things different today, compared to when you first started?

When I started there was very little knowledge or respect for soils. Back then, the topsoil supply industry was governed by the road haulage industry, and subsoil was not even a traded commodity. Surplus topsoil on building sites was removed by haulage firms who would then store it and sell it on to the contractors when they needed the topsoil for new landscapes. Alternatively, waste processing firms would screen skip waste and sell the ‘fines’ as topsoil.

The forefathers of the proper topsoil supply industry are probably Boughton Loam for screened natural soils, Freeland Horticulture, the first company to manufacture a decent topsoil to a high standard and for specific www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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INTERVIEW

purpose, and British Sugar Topsoil, after we found an ingenious use for the soil washings from sugar beet. Today, you can get hold of a certified topsoil and subsoil from a dedicated soil supplier pretty much anywhere in the country. We can also design soils for a whole variety of landscape applications – high drainage, lightweight, low fertility, compactionresistant, acidic, calcareous, etc.

How positive are you about soil’s role in the fight against climate change?

I’m very positive. The crucial role of soil is finally being recognised by its links with climate change, carbon sequestration, biodiversity net gain, Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) and with new environmental legislation that has just been rolled out.

What we need to remember though is that soil protection starts with planning, right at the very beginning of the development process, otherwise a lot of the functions and benefits of soil are lost down the line.

The biggest problem we have had, and we still have, is a legacy of soil compaction.

It’s the biggest impact that the construction industry has on soil health. If we don’t relieve soil compaction then all the ecosystem services that soils provide to the wider environment – such as carbon sequestration, water attenuation to stop flooding and reduce 10

Soil Supplement / February 2021

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drought, support for the landscape, pollution control – won’t happen or certainly won’t happen to the extent they should.

At ‘ground level’, the problem is often because the responsibility of ‘soil management’ is given to the groundworks contractor, whose main intention in life is to compact all soils. The management of landscape soils should lie with the landscape contractor, who has a vested interest in the soil’s quality. Often, the landscape contractor is not given the opportunity to evaluate what the groundworker has done – dare I say it,

de-compact the subsoil and place back the correct amount of topsoil.

What’s the next big thing to happen to soil?

I was delighted to read Kim Wilkie’s recent interview in the January issue, where he recognises soil biology. That’s the next thing – long term soil health. We need to consider our soils as so much more than a growing medium for plants. We need to promote and enhance their other functions and see them as a component of ecosystem services.

R I G H T S O I L , R I G H T P L AC E .

Wildflower meadow Wldflower meadows need soil which is low in phosphorus, but which does have some morganic nitrogen. Many topsoils have a phosphorus level of between 20 to 50 mg/l. For wildflower soils, you want phosphorus levels of ideally less than 10 mg/l and certainly less than 20 mg/l.

This holds back the grasses and gives the flowers a chance to occupy the sward.

In addition, you preferably want a soil with a low weed seedbank, or a manufactured soil that doesn’t have a weed seed bank.

Dominant, fast-growing perennial weeds such as nettle and thistle can outgrow the wildflower, leaving a monoculture.

Tree planting Transplanting a tree is probably the most stressful point in its life. To minimise this stress, you want to optimise the aeration properties of the soil that surrounds the rootball so that the new roots can extend and function properly. So, you need good drainage, good aeration, and not too much compaction. Fertility is not the end of the world, it’s more about the physical soil properties. Most tree planting is done in the winter, so we tend to favour sandy soils for backfilling, because they remain non-plastic at higher moisture contents, and maintain their porosity and resistance to compaction. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

19/01/2021 15:52

EN TO QU D IR AY E

Tree Planting Media ArborSoil Hydro Specifically blended as a result of research and testing for SuDS tree pits.

Designed to strike the perfect balance between high tolerance flooding whilst retaining optimal nutrient required.

Watch live on Zoom, Facebook and Instagram, or catch up on the Pro Landscaper website or Pro Landscaper’s YouTube channel

LIVE Catch up

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Loams • Highly Specialist Blended Soils to include Low Fertility

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18/01/2021 16:04 19/01/2021 16:31

FEATURE

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NATURAL AND MANUFACTURED SOIL? S I M O N H E D L E Y S H A R E S H I S T H O U G H TS O N T H E B E N E F I TS O F N AT U R A L S O I L

S

oil is a vital resource, and while its importance in growing projects is often overlooked, it should sit at the heart of every landscape and garden design project. While natural in-situ soil is often utilised in projects, it can often be necessary to import soil to a site to make up any shortfall.

Not all soils are created equally though; there are significant differences between a natural soil and a substitute manufactured growing medium. The majority of topsoil now offered into the landscape market is of the manufactured, substitute variety. The main reason behind the shift from natural soils to manufactured substitutes is the updated version of the British Standard 3882. The standard does not differentiate between the two, as the previous version did, in fact, Premium Grade Topsoil had to be natural.

Nature knows best Naturally occurring soil is the dynamic product of chemical,

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physical and biological processes that can span thousands of years in the making.

It is the result of interaction between the inherent nature of the parent material and the prevailing environment – creating robust, well developed humic content, nutrient content and microbial diversity.

Conversely, manufactured soils are varying blends of approximately 80% sand and 20% greenwaste in an attempt to replicate an optimum mixture for plant growth. Using these manufactured options tends to ignore the benefits of using an established, balanced natural soil.

Microbial diversity Microbial activity is crucial to the development and strong growth of flora within a soil. Soil microbes play a key role in essential ecosystem processes such as nutrient acquisition, carbon cycling, nitrogen cycling, soil formation, and disease resistance.

An imported natural soil has the advantage of containing established microbial communities that are tailored towards plant symbiosis. A natural topsoil containing higher levels of clay will

sequester carbon at a much higher rate and for longer when undisturbed.

Soil nutrient balance Unlike manufactured topsoil, the nutrient balance within a naturally sourced soil has had time to level out and cycle on a natural rhythm. A manufactured soil requires organic amendments prior to installation which can lead to excessive nutrient content. Any nutrient, organic or structural amendments can have detrimental secondary effects, such as altering pH or water holding capacity.

Conclusion A good source of natural soil would be preferable to those looking to reduce the risk of a nutrient imbalance in host plants immediately after installation. A wellsourced, naturally formed soil is the best choice when installing a working soil that could immediately provide an ideal, reliable environment for a host plant rhizosphere and consequently plant health.

Boughton is one of the few topsoil producers that prefers to use natural ‘as dug’ topsoil. Where manufactured ‘engineered’ site specific growing media is required, Boughton produces a range of specialist blends including lightweight green roof substrates as well as tree planting soils. www.boughton.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

18/01/2021 14:39

TOP TIPS

DOMESTIC LANDSCAPERS A L E X B AY M A N | LU S H L A N D S C A P E S A N D F LO U R I S H P L A N TS

DA N F LY N N | G A R D E N L I N K

It can end up being very costly if the garden design brief and current soil requirements are not fully understood on a domestic landscape project. The site space and access will have an impact on how large volumes of soil can be delivered which needs to be considered within the budget.

Allow for correct soil type when producing budget costs depending on the required use for soil on site. Good free draining locally sourced topsoil should be 10mm screened and free of any debris. It is always suggested that you visit the suppliers soil plant to view the quality and understand the content before ordering. It is always a good idea to supply certified or British Standard topsoil to prevent unknowingly supplying contaminated topsoil.

A good topsoil supplier should understand how the soil bulks out when being spread on site. This will help when you are trying to calculate the correct volume of soil required for the job. Being short on soil can be bad for business with extra transport costs and an impact on your carbon footprint.

The first thing to consider is what the area of new soil is going to be used for. So, freer draining soil for lawn areas with a reasonable sand content for drainage; lower nutrient soil for wildflower area or grasses; and blended soils for perennial and planted areas. It is worth noting the pH level as most soils come in slightly alkaline based, so if acidloving plants are being put into the new topsoil areas, this can sometimes be difficult to source.

Also, it is very important to consider drainage underneath the soil that you are putting in, as invariably you are putting in new soil because the old soil is clay or waterlogged, so digging a hole and putting new soil in it can sometimes act as a sump for the surrounding surface water to flow in to.

Finally, and most importantly, is to go to a reputable and reliable soil supplier who can provide you with the relevant datasheets which match the soil you require and purchase.

SUPPLIER TIPS T H E WO O D H O R N G R O U P

BURY HILL LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

For domestic landscapers, it’s important to choose a soil that is consistent and indicative of the existing makeup in the garden you are working in. A topsoil with more organic matter such as Woodhorn’s Topsoil Supreme is preferred by many domestic landscapers as the additional organic matter from our PAS100 compost also helps to create a topsoil with a rich, dark colour which most homeowners prefer from an aesthetic point of view. Such topsoils can also be used for a multitude of applications across the garden if needed.

It is also important to understand the source of the soil you are purchasing, and to have a recent certificate which includes a chemical analysis where possible. If you are buying a cheap, untested soil from someone advertising on Facebook for instance, then the likelihood is that the quality and nutritional value will be low, which leads to problems further down the line.

When buying soils for domestic use it is very important to make sure that you buy the correct soil in order to achieve the desired results for the particular application you intend to use it for. For instance, a turfing soil has very different characteristics to that of a planting soil. The soil should always be dry, finely screened and fully workable, as this will make the spreading and use as easy as possible. Particular attention should be given to the provenance and quality of the soil as there is no excuse for contamination of any description and the soil should be supported by up-to-date test certification to the appropriate British Standard as an absolute minimum.

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TOP TIPS

COMMERCIAL LANDSCAPERS SUPPLIER TIPS DAV E T W I ST | E L I T E L A N D S C A P E S LT D The supply of consistent quality product is of course vital for any landscape scheme. At Elite, we will only work with suppliers and producers who not only understand the technical requirements of a particular soil but have the ability to provide a wide choice of delivery mechanisms that many of our schemes demand.

We work directly with the producers of our soil. The design parameters set by landscape architects often require a bespoke ability from the supplier. We use up to 15 various topsoils for our schemes, specific soils for specific purpose. Consistency of product is vital for the scheme’s success. Logistics is critical. Deliveries in London are governed by FORS and often require detailed booking in procedures.

Purchasing from a reliable single source supplier who can relate to all the technical detail, provide correct and robust testing, manufacture the product and deliver in to a wide range of applications is for us a minimum standard.

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G R E E N -T E C H There are different types of topsoil, but we recommend you choose ‘manufactured’ topsoil. This type of soil is as near a perfect growing medium as can be produced and a significant advantage for contractors, which should not be underestimated, is consistency; the hundredth tonne will be the same as the first. Look for a supplier that can provide regular and recent testing certificates from a respected and independent soil laboratory. Haulage is often the largest part of the cost so look for a soil supplier that has sites throughout the UK to keep these costs down. Finally, you’ll need different types of soils for different applications and projects. Seek advice. A good soil supplier will happily advise and should even be able to create you a bespoke mix.

THE WOODHORN GROUP When ordering your topsoil, remember to ask for the most recent test certificate. If the supplier can’t provide one from the last three months, then it is likely the batch you are receiving has not been tested. When you receive a test certificate, check that the soil has been deemed fit for the purpose you intend to use it and that there are no warning signs, such as elevated heavy metals, poor nutrient content and contamination such as glass, brick and asbestos.

Ask the manufacturer how they store their soils. All topsoils at Woodhorn are stored under cover to ensure they are dry with an optimum moisture content all year round. Also, think about the quantity of soil required and the site you are working on – do you require a large tipper load or just a few bulk bags? Are there any access issues for vehicles? How much storage space do you have for soil deliveries?

MCM The bottom line with soil supply for commercial landscaping is the availability of consistent quality specified soil, load after load. Beneath every great landscape is great soil. To achieve great landscapes, consider your end game – plant choice, healthy establishment and growth, drainage and stability. Your supplier’s British Standard certifications for topsoil, subsoil and substrates should be up-to-date and checked load for load. Work with a supplier who uses accredited soil testing to give confidence that your finished landscapes will flourish and thrive. Your soil supplier should be as flexible as your site requires. From a large project without logistical challenge to a compact podium landscape, ensure availability of bulk or bagged options by artic, grab or tipper.

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TOP TIPS

GARDEN DESIGNERS M A R I A N B O SWA L L | M A R I A N B O S WA L L L A N D S C A P E A R C H I T E C TS

R O S E M A R Y C O L D ST R E A M | R O S E M A R Y C O L D ST R E A M G A R D E N D E S I G N

It’s important to assess the quality, structure and pH of soil on site before committing to buying new. The depths of topsoil and quality often vary over the site and it is not always necessary to buy in new. With careful stripping and storage, we have found that it may be enough to add soil improvement through added compost rather than shipping in new topsoil. We prefer to keep existing soil in situ where possible if it won’t have machinery tracking over it during the build, and plant into it through a layer of compost or gravel.

The key to a successful garden is in the ground preparation. You can’t fight against the pH and drainage is essential. Using the correct soil will make a sustainable and long-lived landscape. Firstly, know what the soil is for and what depth is needed; borders, meadows, lawns, planters, roofs, etc., have different requirements. Assess the soil on site (clay, chalk, compacted etc) and improve what is there if you can as it will be full of beneficial microbes. Choose appropriately for your subsoil; a higher stone content suits stony sub-soils.

Ask suppliers for the source of the soil – greenfield, brownfield, skip or manufactured? The latter means you have control over what and how consistent it is. What is the structure of the soil? I.e. stone content, pH (to match your site). Are they a reputable supplier? You don’t want to import pesticides into the garden.

SUPPLIER TIPS G R E E N -T EC H

T H E WO O D H O R N G R O U P

A good quality soil gives trees and plants the best chance of healthy establishment, growth, and survival. It is crucial to select your soil from a well-established, trusted source, and that it is regularly tested to BS 3882:2015 by a recognised industry laboratory. You will need different soil dependent on the nature and location of your planting. A good soil manufacturer will be able to help you choose the right soil for your project.

Most garden designers will undertake planting schemes that include areas requiring the use of soils with varying properties. A multi-purpose topsoil cannot always provide the required nutritional needs for all plant life.

Different soils with different properties are required by most garden designers; for example, calcareous for planting wildflowers, acidic for planting azaleas and rhododendrons and subsoil for tree pits. Some plants may not need the nutritional content that multi-purpose topsoil provides, and this is where soils such as our low-fertility topsoil is used. A new lawn would require one of our bespoke rootzones to increase soil fertility and stimulate strong root growth, and rain gardens need a topsoil with added grit for drainage.

Specialist soils are essential where a ‘one-size-fits-all’ topsoil cannot meet all the requirements.

B O U G H TO N LOA M

BURY HILL LANDSCAPE SUPPLIES

When choosing a growing medium, it is important to identify the specific cultural, growing and support requirements of different plant varieties in virtually all classifications. Many will be suited to limited soil types along with their associated nutrient and drainage properties. Topsoil, whether natural, blended or manufactured, provides different benefits to the establishment and development of plant life. It’s advisable to speak with a specialist bespoke soil manufacturer to discuss desired results and job circumstances.

With garden designers increasingly specifying the use of exotic plants for their landscape projects, the need to match the suitability of the soil to the plant’s growing requirements has never been more important. All soils have different characteristics and, whilst the main focus is often on the pH of the soil, other factors need to be borne in mind, such as nutrient levels, drainage ratios, percentage of organic matter, etc – all will play an important part in deciding on the correct soil to use in a particular situation.

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Soil Supplement / February 2021

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FEATURE

KEEPING IT LOCAL N

ow that we exist in a world of high-speed online shopping, we want items delivered instantly, no matter where they come from and who has to break their back – or damage the environment – to deliver them. When it comes to goods and services, there is a battle between those who value provenance and laud the rise of ‘localism’ – best demonstrated in the resurgence of local farm shops – and those who don’t mind if their blueberries come from Bolivia, as long as blueberries are on the shelves.

It is fairly obvious that flying fruit and vegetables all over the world in this way is unsustainable. At some point, we will have to live with the stark realisation that we can only consume asparagus in May and June, and that some of our favourite consumables just aren’t available all year round.

It boils down to creating a sustainable supply chain and using materials that are available locally, even if they aren’t the client’s top preference. When landscape architects and designers draw up initial plans including preferred soil types, for example, do they consider where their preferred materials might have to be hauled from in order to achieve their vision?

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J O N AT H A N B O U R N E S AYS W E S H O U L D B E C H O O S I N G P R OV E N A N C E OV E R P R E F E R E N C E TO LOW E R O U R E N V I R O N M E N TA L I M PAC T

We were recently handed a specification that required the pH of the soil to fall between 6.0 and 6.2, and whilst this is achievable, sourcing a local ‘as dug’ soil to match the

IT BOILS DOWN TO CREATING A SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN AND USING MATERIALS THAT ARE AVAILABLE LOCALLY, EVEN IF THEY AREN’T THE CLIENT’S TOP PREFERENCE acidic requirement would be impossible. The only choice would be to fabricate or blend a low pH BS:3882 multipurpose topsoil from multiple components, and then transport this hybrid blend into the scheme. It would surely be far more ecologically sound to work with local materials to create a more indigenous planting scheme.

Many of the specifications that cross our desks are copied and pasted from older documents and pay zero attention to what is

available locally. A wildflower meadow may be a stunning visual, but wildflowers will only survive in a low nutrient soil where more vigorous species do not out-compete them.

We have recently delivered our low fertility soil to Scotland for a wildflower scheme and, although we welcome the business, I wonder if this is down to a lack of communication between the buyer and local suppliers.

At Bourne Amenity, we pride ourselves in the ability to match and supply most specifications we encounter; however, it might be time for architects to choose provenance over preference and start designing schemes that work in harmony with the local environment and reduce the miles travelled and carbon footprint of desirable imported materials.

There was brief nod paid to localism during the Olympic Park project back in 2012, but on only one occasion since have we had to fill in a form stating how many miles the materials we are supplying have travelled from source to site. Whilst the haulage industry is trying to keep ahead of environmental trends, it is still a carbon heavy mode of transportation and more often than not there are local sources of materials that can be substituted in to closely replicate the desired landscaping effect. www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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FEATURE

FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS T R E N D S A R E A L WAYS O N T H E M I N D S O F TO P S U P P L I E R S – S O W H AT A R E T H E Y P R E D I C T I N G TO B E H OT TO P I C S G O I N G FO R WA R D ?

S

oil is going up – literally. At The Great Soil Debate, our panellists said green roofs are continuing to grow in popularity, and this should be a huge market for soils going forward.

Mark Wood of Green-tech said: “The green roof market north of Birmingham is starting to take off greatly now”, with Manchester and Liverpool being “big development areas for green infrastructure on the whole”.

This growing demand has led Bury Hill Landscape Supplies to start developing a machine to automate the bagging process and increase its output, said director John Coles – a huge benefit, considering its close proximity to London.

As the UK experiences more extreme weather, Drew Wetherell commented that Bourne Amenity had also seen a significant rise in SuDS materials. “We’ve seen over the last few years how flooding has had a massive impact and the designs of SuDS are now slowly and steadily getting put at the forefront for all these new big housing projects… I think it’s going to be one of the big pushes going forward.”

Outside of the seminar, The Woodhorn Group said it is “now seeing a huge growth in the use of subsoils as well as SuDS and rain garden topsoils, which are used for areas that require higher rates of drainage”.

The company added: “We expect the topsoil market to continue growing over the year, with more demand from the construction industry. The demand for consistency and quality will continue, and we are seeing that recycled topsoils are becoming increasingly under scrutiny by the Environment Agency which deems them as a waste product.

“Due to the increasing demand across the south for certified topsoils, we will be soon be opening a new www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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production site in Southampton to meet this demand.”

Provenance of soil is a hot topic amongst landscape designers and architects, says Bury Hill Landscape Supplies. “We believe that the coming year will see a continued shift towards

WE EXPECT THE TOPSOIL MARKET TO CONTINUE GROWING OVER THE COMING MONTHS higher specified manufactured soils becoming the norm as more people discover the pitfalls of using reclaimed materials. This marks an important move in the right direction. With a diminishing number of greenfield sites to develop, it is likely that we will see a continued shift in the regeneration of brownfield sites.

It is increasingly important to look at imported soils and their impact on planting schemes as well as the necessary site protocols in order to reduce the risk of cross contamination.

“When redeveloping a brownfield site, there is an increased chance that the existing site material will contain some form of contamination and therefore validation testing of imported materials becomes

more of a focus for planners. It is important to bear in mind that any soil testing carried out on the imported soil stockpiles is only indicative and should not be relied upon by third parties as a means of verification. It is increasingly the case that site validation testing is being carried out and therefore the use of higher quality manufactured soils from known sources is becoming of even greater importance in order to avoid cross contamination issues.”

One unavoidable area for suppliers as well is Net Zero targets. Mark Wood says Greentech is working towards achieving the UK’s 2050 goal, considering the impact of its soil manufacturing and supply – and no doubt other suppliers will need to do the same.

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GUIDE

SUPPLIERS GUIDE B O U G H TO N LOA M What type of soil do you sell?

Predominantly ‘as dug’ soils, screened and blended to specified requirements. Bespoke soil blends are available on request.

How rigorously is it tested?

All soils processed at our soil production facility in Northamptonshire are tested to standards set out in BS 3882.

What can you deliver?

Anything from loose tipped ‘as dug’ soils, bulk bags, to 25kg bags on pallets, delivered anywhere in the UK, whenever required.

B R I T I S H S U G A R TO P S O I L What is the best way to get a quote?

Via phone (01536 510 515), email (info@boughton.co.uk) or visit the website.

How is your soil produced?

Boughton takes natural soil from construction sites at the pre-start phase of a project and then screens, sterilises and dries to required specifications and BS 3882 standards as necessary. Depending on the required blend, these can be supplied ‘as dug’ with minimal processing, straight through to specialist blends for green roofs, tree soil and loams. www.boughton.co.uk

BOURNE AMENITY What type of soil do you sell?

When it comes to topsoil and growing media, we advertise around 24 different planting materials on our website. However, we are constantly blending new bespoke materials to suit certain planting schemes so the number will ultimately be closer to between 30 to 40 different variants.

How rigorously is it tested?

We test each of our blends as an ongoing process around three to four times per year and then our clients will also carry out their own testing before and during a project so each material is high performing and consistent.

What can you deliver?

Our fleet of FORS Gold vehicles cover everything

from loose tipped, bulk bag delivery, walking floor offload, grabs, you name it. We also have smaller vehicles for tight sites.

What is the best way to get a quote?

Phone, email, carrier pigeon – which ever way suits the client. We aim to get quotes back to you within the hour.

How is your soil produced?

The majority of our soils and substrates are blended using numerous high-quality components to ensure consistency and performance of the finished product. We have facilities where we carry out the blending, bagging and distribution. www.bourneamenity.co.uk

What type of soil do you sell?

BS 8601 compliant subsoil; free draining subsoil; BS 3882 compliant landscaping topsoil; planting topsoil; lawn dressings.

How rigorously is it tested?

All British Standard-compliant TOPSOIL products are tested in line with the standard, which requires that testing is carried out every 5,000m3 per 8,000t sold. We test for more than 60 different parameters.

What can you deliver?

Eight-wheeler (20t) lorries, articulated (29t) vehicles, grab lorries (16t) and bulk bags (minimum order of 10 applies). In most cases, we can deliver within two to three days of an order being placed.

What is the best way to get a quote?

Visit our website to select the right product and to calculate how much is required using our online calculator (or use our soil calculator card free in this Pro Landscaper Soil Guide), then call 0870 240 2314 for a quote and to place an order.

How is your soil produced?

Uniquely, all products are produced from the prime arable topsoil that arrives on the beet delivered to our four sugar factories. The topsoil is recycled over a two-year period to ensure our sustainable products are fit for purpose. www.bstopsoil.co.uk

G R E E N -T R E E What type of soil do you sell?

We cater for most applications – from topsoil and urban tree planting soils to green roof garden soils, subsoil and structural soils. We can also produce bespoke soil mixes.

What can you deliver?

Bulk deliveries are made using third party hauliers using standard eight-wheeler tipper vehicles, articulated tippers or walking floors. Soil in dumpy bags will be delivered on standard UK pallets.

How rigorously is it tested?

Tim O’Hare Associates tests it every 5,000m3 per 8,000t, or quarterly, whichever is soonest.

What is the best way to get a quote?

Call on 01423 369 731, or visit our website and use the Live Chat or complete the enquiry form.

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How is your soil produced?

Our products are all manufactured using organic compost and overburdened sand from quarries. They are packed full of the essential nutrients and structural components that result in a rich and organic topsoil. Soils and substrates are manufactured at our 25 production sites. www.green-tree.co.uk www.prolandscapermagazine.com

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GUIDE E U R O G R E E N E N V I R O N M E N TA L LT D

T H E WO O D H O R N G R O U P

What type of soil do you sell?

We produce a range of soils for many different applications. We produce a general purpose 10mm screened BS 3882 certified topsoil, BS 3882 certified sandy loam topdressing soils, specialist blended rootzone soils, 50/50 blended growing mix for produce and 20mm topsoil for raising levels or creating landforms.

What type of soil do you sell?

Woodhorn BS 3882 Multi-purpose Topsoil, Woodhorn BS 3882 Low-Fertility Topsoil, Woodhorn BS 8601 Subsoil, Woodhorn Bespoke Rootzones, SuDS/Rain Garden Topsoil and Green Roof soils.

How rigorously is it tested?

We take a sample of our soils every three months which undergoes in-depth laboratory testing for BS 3882, PAH and TPH. What can you deliver?

We can offer delivery with our own diverse fleet of trucks to suit most requirements and challenges. Our products are available in builders bulk bags and loose tipped quantities from one tonne to 29t, with the option in our fleet to offer grab offload should this be needed.

What is the best way to get a quote?

The best way to get a price is to either call our office or enquire through our website.

How is your soil produced?

Our topsoil is all produced and blended on our site in West Sussex, and sourced from greenfield sites, where the soils have been stripped to make way for new development. Stored and blended on site, they are then processed to remove any large particles and stones, then screened to the required aperture for the product needed. www.topsoilwestsussex.co.uk

How rigorously is it tested?

Our BS 3882 Multi-Purpose Topsoil is tested each month, and the BS 3882 Low-Fertility Topsoil and BS 8601 Subsoil every three months. Compost used in the manufacture of our topsoils is tested to PAS100 standard (performed at regular intervals for every 2,500t of compost produced) and is certified for use in organic systems by OF&G.

What can you deliver?

From 750L bulk bags delivered nationwide, to 20t loose loads which can travel up to 100 miles from our production site near Chichester, West Sussex.

A new BS3882 Multi-purpose Topsoil production site will soon be opening in Southampton.

How is your soil produced?

We manufacture over 35,000t of soil each year using overburden sand and our PAS100 Compost. For large projects, we can produce and supply up to 600t a day with access to 170 trucks. www.woodhorngroup.co.uk

MCM What type of soil do you sell?

British Standard topsoil, subsoil and premium specialist soils with bioremediation, lightweight material, turf, plant and tree establishment in mind.

How rigorously is it tested?

Our soils are regularly tested to provide the latest BS 3882:2015 certification. We work closely with leading soil scientists to ensure clarity and consistency.

What can you deliver?

Delivering by artic, tipper or grab in bulk loads or bagged, we deliver across the UK. From our South East London depots,

we have a FORS Gold logistical access into central London sites. Next day delivery, all year round. We carry loads of approximately 20t or 15m3, depending on the blend/density.

How is your soil produced?

MCM BS topsoil, subsoils and highperformance soils are produced and blended in our facilities from locally sourced soils.

Soils are peat-free, sourced only from greenfield sites to ensure the base is clean and contaminant-free. Screened, blended and checked using specialist machinery, an MCM soil delivery is consistent, ensuring projects take shape on the best foundations. www.mcm-se.com

B U RY H I L L L A N D S C A P E S U P P L I E S

STO N E Z O N E & L A N D S C A P I N G C E N T R E

What type of soil do you sell?

Our soils are manufactured using virgin soils and sands, and blended with PAS100 compost. Our evolving soil ranges include contract, general purpose and planting soils, specialist low fertility and ericaceous soils, BS subsoils, and lightweight soils and substrates.

What type of soil do you sell?

The Stone Zone & Landscaping Centre sells a variety of soil, ranging from 6mm down to 10mm down. The range extends to Dutch tree sand, turf dressings, barks and mulches.

How rigorously is it tested?

Main soils are tested every three months whilst secondary soils every six or nine months. Testing is carried out by Tim O’Hare Associates.

How rigorously is it tested?

The Wessex® BS 3882 Soil is tested each month in line with BS 3882 specification. A full chemical analysis is conducted on the material including asbestos testing; test certificates are available on request.

How is your soil produced?

Our soils are produced using clean inert materials which have been tested to ascertain chemical properties and soil blending suitability.

We work with our soil advisors to develop precise soil mixes. www.buryhilltopsoilandlogs.co.uk

How is your soil produced?

The Stone Zone’s soil is sourced from the local area of Dorset. It is screened to a 10mm particle size with PAS100 Compost being added to increase the nutrient value in the material. www.stone-zone.uk

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