Mexican Beach Pebble vs Topsoil
Side-by-side comparison of Mexican Beach Pebble and Topsoil to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Mexican beach pebbles are smooth, naturally tumbled stones commonly used in modern and decorative landscaping. They are prized for their uniform shape, rich color, and polished appearance.
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
Mexican Beach Pebble
- ✓ Decorative landscaping
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Planters
- ✓ Water features
Topsoil
- ✓ Lawn seeding
- ✓ Garden beds
- ✓ Raised bed fill
- ✓ Landscape grading
- ✓ Sod installation
- ✓ Tree and shrub planting
Pros & Cons
Mexican Beach Pebble
- + Very attractive appearance
- + Smooth texture
- + Long-lasting
- + Low dust
- − Expensive
- − Poor traction
- − Can shift easily
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 | Mexican Beach Pebble | Topsoil |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $120 – $200 | $12 – $30 |
| Per cubic yard | $150 – $240 | $15 – $40 |
Sizes & Colors
Mexican Beach Pebble
Available in sizes from 1" to 3". Commonly black, charcoal, or dark gray.
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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