Soil’s a key ingredient for grass. But does sand help it grow?
Yes. The ideal soil has a mix of silt, clay, organic matter, and sand particles. Sand can make soil retain water longer, increase drainage and break up the hard clay-like ground. Plus, nutrients are more available to grass in sandy soil since air pockets improve the absorption rate.
But if you add too much sand, the soil will be nutrient deficient, tough to water, and too gritty for roots to easily stretch out. Remember that having the right balance is key; one handful of clay deserves one teaspoon of sand plus organic matter and silt.
Creating long-term healthy turf takes patience and diligence, but it pays off with lush greenery year after year. To effectively measure how much sand per square feet needed, determine your catchment’s level ecoregion or contact experts who understand local soil types best.
Once you’ve acquired the perfect blend of minerals, prepare the turf by turning in compost an inch deep, then spread one-fifth to two inches of the sandy mix on top for optimal growth results—followed by regular watering when needed.
So yes, adding sand may aid in better grass growth as it provides enhanced water drainage and improved nutrient absorption when mixed as part of an ideal soil formula.