Topsoil is sand or clay (ground-up rocks) mixed with organic materials such as compost. ... Topsoil holds lots of water, so it will stay moist for a long time. Potting soil lets water drain easily, so it dries out quickly. Topsoil is dense and packs down easily.

Is topsoil good for drainage?

Incorporating topsoil into an area of lawn or a garden that tends to hold water improves the location's drainage. Use a sandy topsoil combined with organic matter, such as compost or ground pine bark, and till it into the existing soil to a depth of 12 inches to create good drainage in the root zone area of plants.

Is it OK to use topsoil for potted plants?

Using Topsoil for Potted Plants

You certainly can use topsoil for potted plants, but that doesn't mean you should. If you do, your plant probably won't get the nutrients it needs, won't grow at the rate you expect and will be likely to die sooner. The best topsoil for vegetable gardens may not be topsoil at all.