Preparing the Turf Zone

• Grass requires organic soils with superior drainage. The preparation of the soil is important before seeding or laying sod, but so is leveling the field or bed. Sand is instrumental in increasing the drainage in clay soils and provides a good surface if several inches of compost accompany the soil amendment. Soils that already have good drainage and fertility are tilled and then leveled. Any dips or valleys in the seed bed can be leveled with 70 percent coarse sand or a mixture of topsoil and fine sand.
  
  

Mixing Sand With Grass Seed

• Sand is commonly mixed with seeds to help them spread evenly during sowing. Medium grain sand mixed with seed in a seed spreader or broadcast seeder help the uniform distribution of the seed and also give the seed light cover so it doesn't blow away before it has time to germinate. A fine sand will incorporate at too high a rate with the seed and prevent an even distribution. A coarse sand has a particle size that is so large it can affect germination.
  
  

Types of Sand

• The best variety of sand to use is a horticultural sand. These are lime free and are low in salt content. You can also use river sand if you can get hold of any. Horitcultural sands are clean and free of contaminants and meant for growers, which is in contrast to sandy grit which is used for laying pavers and concrete projects. The finer texture of horticultural sand provide easy access for roots to grow through and yet still is still coarse enough for drainage.
  
  

Top Dressing With Sand

• Many gardeners top dress their lawns with compost as a soil amendment and nutrient booster. Using sand as a topdressing improves drainage, airflow and reduces compaction. Particle size is an important consideration when topdressing. Coarse, medium and USGA (United States Golfing Association) varieties of sand are available. The recommendations for particle size vary dependent upon the level of sand already in soil, the amount of excess drainage needed and the soil temperatures. Fine sands can be smothering in warm season climates but can be applied in smaller amounts. Wider particle sizes increase soil porosity and airflow but cause soils to become gritty. Specific recommendations for your area and type of turf can be found at your county extension office.