50/50 Soil Mix

50/50 Soil Mix – Garden Soil in Austin, TX

Our 50/50 Soil Mix is a nutrient rich garden blend made from 50% screened loam and 50% organic compost. This mix is designed specifically for garden beds, raised beds, and planting areas where strong root development and soil enrichment are important.

With a higher compost content than traditional top soil, this blend improves soil fertility, boosts microbial activity, and enhances moisture retention. It is ideal for vegetables, flowers, shrubs, and ornamental plants throughout the Austin area.

If you’re building or refreshing a garden bed, this mix provides a balanced foundation for healthy, productive growth.

How to Install 50/50 Garden Soil

For best results, blend 50/50 Soil Mix with your existing native soil instead of laying it directly on top. A good starting point is about 60 to 70% native soil mixed with 30 to 40% 50/50 Soil Mix.

Install in layers, lightly compacting and watering as you go to help reduce settling. Shape the area for proper drainage so water moves away from structures and does not sit in low spots.

The soil should be moist before planting, but not soaked. If your area has heavy clay soil, adding pea gravel underneath or blending some into the base can help improve drainage and support healthier root growth.

Proper soil prep helps plants establish stronger roots, improves drainage, reduces settling, and helps prevent rework later.

1. Prepare the Area
    Remove weeds, grass, and debris. Loosen existing soil 3–6 inches deep to allow proper blending.
2. Spread Evenly
    Apply soil at 3–6 inches deep for new beds. For existing beds, apply 2–3 inches and mix into native soil.
3. Blend Thoroughly
    Mix into the existing soil to reduce compaction and improve drainage.
4. Water Lightly
    Moisten the soil after installation to activate compost nutrients.
5. Plant Immediately
    Install plants, seeds, or transplants within a few days for best results.

Best used for:

• Raised garden beds
 • Vegetable gardens
 • Flower beds
 • Shrub and ornamental planting
 • Soil enrichment projects

One cubic yard covers approximately 100 square feet at 3 inches deep.

This mix is not recommended as a primary sod base soil. For lawns, our 75/25 Soil Mix is typically a better choice.

• Water consistently during plant establishment
 • Add mulch on top to retain moisture
 • Replenish garden beds annually with a fresh top layer
 • Monitor drainage to avoid overwatering

Austin’s heat can dry garden beds quickly, so consistent moisture is important during the first few weeks.

Material Blend:
50% screened loam
50% organic compost

Coverage:
1 cubic yard covers approx. 100 sq ft at 3 inches deep

Weight:
Approximately 2,100 – 2,500 lbs per cubic yard (dry)

Recommended Depth:
3–6 inches for new beds
2–3 inches for soil amendment

Primary Use:
Garden beds, vegetables, flowers, and planting areas