Laying turf on sand

If i have turf layed on sand instead of top soil as the existing surface is not rotovated or dug, how long will it last?

Asked by John on 27th Jan 2020
Expert Trade Answers
"Depends how deep the sand is.
I wouldn’t recommend it if the roots cannot get to soil or be fed every week with good nutrients."
Answered on 27th Jan 2020 - Member since Jul 2019 - report
"Not very long, it needs to be layed on top soil after levelling."
Answered on 10th Mar 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
"Sand is good for drainage and it will last forever."
Answered on 27th Jan 2020 - Member since Aug 2018 - report
"Not sure how long it will last if you used just sand but if you buy a few bags of soil and spread it, your turf will last longer."
Answered on 10th Feb 2020 - Member since Aug 2019 - report
"I wouldn’t say it will last very long but it depends on what grass you’ve bought. Some grass can be very hardy and may be able to root down through the sand depending on how deep the layer of sand is but I would definitely recommend laying it on soil instead."
Answered on 12th Mar 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"I would say, depending on the depth of the sand, I would mix some topsoil in, just to make the ground more fertile for the roots of the turf.
So in my opinion, putting turf down directly on sand would be unwise. Rotovate some topsoil in to be sure."
Answered on 27th Jan 2020 - Member since Nov 2019 - report
"No l wouldn't lay it on sand. I would mix sand and top soil together then lay it, this should help with the drainage of water."
Answered on 27th Jan 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"If it's not horticultural sharp sand then I'd advise you start again using a quality top soil instead.
Some turf out there may still take but it's not going to be very good in the long run."
Answered on 3rd May 2020 - Member since Jan 2020 - report
"If you are adamant on laying on sand, I’d be inclined to mix some top soil with it too. Just to ensure the turf gets the nutrients it needs.
Kind regards."
Answered on 3rd Mar 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
"It's not a good idea to lay turf on to sand, as the sand holds water and goes soggy."
Answered on 31st Mar 2020 - Member since Feb 2020 - report
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