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Leveling backyard - what to use other than topsoil?

09:16AM | 06/06/02

Member Since: 03/19/02
7 lifetime posts

Leveling backyard - what to use other than topsoil?

Tags: Lawn & Garden

My new place has a sloping backyard that is about 2.5 feet lower at the lowest point, compared to the highest point. I plan to build a retaining wall and then fill it up to make the whole backyard level.

I was told to use topsoil to fill it in but that would probably take over 100 cubic yard of topsoil.

I am just wondering if there is a cheaper alternative, at least for the first 2 feet, and then perhaps I can top it off with good quality topsoil for the last 6 inches. Thanks.

Randy Colin

06:26PM | 06/06/02

Member Since: 04/14/01
43 lifetime posts

Neech7,Sometimes you can find an excavating co. that will give away dirt that would not be used because it would be considered dirty.In otherwords,this dirt would not be used for the top eight inches.This dirt might contain broken sewer pipe,glass,roots,chunks of asphalt and cement. While it sounds bad there is still plenty of dirt.Call around and ask the excavating companies in your area if they do this.

05:41PM | 06/09/02

Member Since: 09/23/01
242 lifetime posts

My question would be why fill it?
Consider using the slope to your advantage. Mutiple terraces, sunken garden area, excavate for a small pond.