raise my lawn

Jack Gardner

I need to raise a 3m x 2metre lawn by about 4 inches. The existing lawn is full of moss, so I will dig this out. I assume that I will need to use actual soil (mud) rather than 'topsoil'. Any advise is appreciated.

richhondac

Top soil will be fine

BobTheGardener

Jack, moss is usually a sign of poor drainage so I would rotovate it, adding enough sharp sand and well-rotted farmyard manure to improve drainage and add nutrients respectively.  This will also raise the level.  Add as much as you need to get the level you require.  Personally, I wouldn't even bother to remove the moss before doing the above but you could scrape the surface off and dispose if really bad.

Stevedaylilly

Top soil will be ok but you should mix it with grit before using it as a base for your new lawn. You will need approx 0.60mc so it would be better to buy a large jumbo bag. Once you have laid the top soil you will need to firm it by down by foot to consolidate the ground untill you have your 100mm depth. Rake it area over to create a fine tilt of soil before laying your new lawn 

Stevedaylilly

The grit is to create good drainage to the top soil that is a top requirement for any new lawn 

Jack Gardner

Thanks for the advise guys.

I have remove the old 'mossy' lawn and obtained loads of actual mud/soil from a friend. What ratio of sharp sand should I mix in with it before compacting it down?

 

Stevedaylilly

For good drainage I would normally supply grit/sand mix at a ratio of 1 grit to 3 soil. Your depth of 4" is really the depth of top soil in most gardens that contains the best growing ingredients for plants. I would also apply 70 grams of growmore per sq m of soil to boost growth of your new lawn

Jack Gardner

Thanks for the advise guys, hopefully will save a novice from having a soggy garden. Cheers!