Crushed Limestone vs Topsoil
Side-by-side comparison of Crushed Limestone and Topsoil to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Crushed sedimentary rock with a pale gray to white color. Compacts well and provides good drainage. Limestone is a popular choice in the Midwest and South where it's quarried locally, keeping costs low.
Nutrient-rich upper layer of soil, ideal for establishing lawns, gardens, and planting beds. Quality topsoil is dark, crumbly, and full of organic matter that supports plant growth. Screened topsoil has been filtered to remove rocks, roots, and debris.
Common Uses
Crushed Limestone
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Pathways
- ✓ Base material
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Parking pads
- ✓ Erosion control
Topsoil
- ✓ Lawn seeding
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Raised bed fill
- ✓ Landscape grading
- ✓ Sod installation
- ✓ Tree and shrub planting
Pros & Cons
Crushed Limestone
- + Compacts into a firm, stable surface
- + Light color brightens landscapes
- + Good drainage properties
- + Affordable in limestone-rich regions
- + Natural weed suppression when compacted
- − Can become muddy when wet (stone dust)
- − Limited color options
- − May raise soil pH over time
- − Dusty in dry conditions
- − Not available everywhere
Topsoil
- + Rich in nutrients for plant growth
- + Creates ideal growing medium
- + Dark color absorbs warmth for earlier spring planting
- + Screened options are ready to use
- + Essential for any planting project
- − Settles significantly after delivery
- − Quality varies greatly between suppliers
- − Can contain weed seeds
- − Heavy when wet
- − Should never be used as structural fill
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Crushed Limestone | Topsoil |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $45 | $12 – $30 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $50 | $15 – $40 |
Sizes & Colors
Crushed Limestone
Available from fine limestone screenings up to 3-inch chunks. Most common sizes are 3/4" and 1.5". Color ranges from pale gray to off-white, sometimes with a slight yellow tint. Compacted limestone screenings create a smooth, almost concrete-like surface.
Topsoil
Fine, crumbly soil texture when screened. Dark brown to black color indicates high organic content. "Screened" topsoil has been run through a 3/8" or 1/2" screen to remove debris. Blended topsoil may include compost for extra nutrients.
Published February 11, 2026
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