Topsoil/Screened or Unscreened

Question

I just built 2 garden boxes – 8′ x 4′ x 2′ high. I filled the bottom 10 inches with big rocks, and then filled in with smaller stones (typically used for country driveways.) My question is: I have been told by some gardeners that screened topsoil is what I should get – while others tell me unscreened topsoil is best for drainage. Can you please tell me what type of soil would be best to fill in the top 14″? Screened or unscreened?

Answer 1

Either is fine really. It is true that the screened will compact more, but topsoil normally has enough organic material in it that it does not cause issues for the plants.