In Germany there are strict guidelines for the disposal of excavated earth. This also includes topsoil, which is subject to special legal provisions. Disposal does not make sense in all cases, because there are many interested parties.
Topsoil is far too valuable to throw away
definition
Topsoil, also known as topsoil or topsoil, represents the uppermost soil horizon. It contains mineral substrates such as silt, clay and sand. In contrast to the lower layers, the upper horizon is rich in nutrients. Numerous microorganisms live here that are dependent on aerobic conditions. There is often an additional layer of humus, which consists exclusively of organic components.
properties
This type of soil is a valuable commodity provided it is clean and free of any pollutants or contaminants. It is not load-bearing and must therefore be removed prior to the construction of buildings or roads. Subsequent storage plays a major role in the quality of the excavated material, because the high proportion of biodegradable substances quickly leads to undesired putrefaction processes. These are favored by insufficient ventilation.
Important functions of topsoil:
- stores water and supplies plants with important nutrients
- filters pollutants from rainwater
- prevents water accumulation and reduces flow rate
Legal regulations
Section 202 of the Building Code stipulates that the top layer of soil must be preserved so that the substrate can continue to be used. Goods worthy of protection must not be wasted or destroyed. When digging up the soil, you must be careful not to contaminate the topsoil or mix it with rubble. If the soil is contaminated with pesticides and pollutants or contains contaminated sites, professional disposal is essential.
containers and trucks
For smaller amounts of excavation, we recommend renting a container that is delivered and picked up. You can fill it yourself or hire a specialist company to do the work. For large quantities, a truck is the better choice because it transports the excavated material directly to the landfill.
tips
Which variant is suitable for you depends on the volume. Note that the excavated soil has about 20 to 30 percent more volume than the compacted soil.
use
You should think twice about disposing of topsoil to a landfill. This soil horizon is the basic requirement for creating vegetable beds and fertile gardens. You can buy topsoil in specialty stores. However, this is not particularly fruitful. The substrate was mixed up as a result of the removal and the soil structure was disturbed. The bottom fauna has to recover first.
online exchanges
If you don't have a use for the earth, look for buyers on the internet. Many districts offer soil exchange markets, through which the topsoil can be given to interested parties. In this way, the valuable raw material is not lost. In addition to hobby gardeners, farmers from the region also have a great interest in high-quality topsoil.