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new lawn for tricky site

Posted by Maddy Lawrence on August 6, 2016 at 1:34pm in Landscaping

Hello,

Question about a lawn in Cardiff which is clear of all plants and structures after it was all ripped out in preparation for a new garden.  From what I've seen of the photos there was a small tree, some herbaceous perennials, a path and a large shed.  What's left is a slightly compacted area, patchy grass coming through along with various weeds.  During the winter rain water settled in some areas and algae formed.  The ground is level but a little uneven. Clay soil. Area measures 6 x 8m.  I would prefer not to bring in a rotavator but wondering if I can aerate with a fork or spikey shoes and then rake sand in to improve drainage,  and for the uneven areas apply a layer of top soil and sand mix, before laying the turf...?  And can I do this straight onto existing lawn (what there is of it) after digging out weeds?  No chemicals please. Clients want instant lawn so preferring turf to seed.  Any advice very much appreciated, thank you!

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  • Edward Botheras August 6, 2016 at 2:52pm
    Going by what you describe Maddy, I would fork out the perennial weeds, how off the rest and take off. Then I I would lightly fork over the whole area. I'm assuming the area is roughly level with the surrounding, if it is then I rake it level then if it's dry heel it in and take over to give a good level, even finish then turf it.
    If it is a bit low lying you could add sand which you could mix with the soil, to bring the level up so rain doest collect.
    To do a good job dont just fork to aerate then add sand to uneven areas...you'll end up with problems!
    • Maddy Lawrence > Edward Botheras August 6, 2016 at 3:26pm

      Thank you Edward that's helpful.  I was a bit concerned about the soil being too lumpy to rake but I think it's going to be a suck it and see job! Cheers.

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