topsoil
In French: terre végétale
Definition
The top layer of soil, rich in organic matter, where lawn and plants grow. A lawn typically has 100 to 150 mm of it; a thicker layer holds rainwater better. It is not fill under hard surfaces, because it settles. In Quebec, BNQ 0605-100 covers growing soils and surface preparation.
Also called
- lawn soil
- growing medium
Other names in French
- terre de surface
- terre à pelouse
- terre à gazon
- top soil
Sources
Calgary notes that lawns typically have 100 to 150 mm of topsoil and that a layer of 300 mm or more holds water better. (section 5.4, Resilient Landscaping)
Guide to Lot Drainage · City of Calgary
BNQ 0605-100 covers surface preparation and soils for landscaping with plants (paid standard, cited, never reproduced).
BNQ 0605-100, Aménagement paysager à l'aide de végétaux · Bureau de normalisation du QuébecPaid standard: cited, never reproduced