How to Apply Turf Topsoil for a Perfect Lawn

Why a topsoil designed specifically for turf is your secret weapon for a standout lawn

Laying fresh turf is one of the quickest ways to transform a brown, bare garden into a lush, green Eden. However, the secret to maintaining that lush, green, and healthy lawn goes completely unnoticed and hidden below the turf. We’re talking about turf topsoil. In this article, we showcase our premium topsoil designed purposely for easier turf installation, stronger root development, and consistent, healthy growth.

Content Overview

• What is Turf Topsoil?
• How George Davies’ Turf Topsoil differs
• How to apply turf topsoil
• How much turf topsoil do you need?
• The benefits of turf topsoil
• Order from the experts
• FAQs

What is Turf Topsoil?

Turf topsoil is a specifically blended soil designed to create the ideal foundation and growing environment for freshly laid turf. Unlike generic topsoil or garden soil, turf topsoil is carefully graded and screened to provide a balanced environment that encourages rapid root establishment, improves drainage, and supports long-term lawn health.

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How George Davies’ Turf Topsoil Differs

Sourced from trusted suppliers in Lincolnshire, we’ve made sure we’ve found the best topsoil for turf growth out there! Features of our turf topsoil include:

• Screened to 10mm, removing stones and debris
• Fine textured and workable all year round
• Free-draining to help reduce waterlogging
• Moisture-retentive to keep turf and roots hydrated
• Rich enough to support strong root growth
• Designed specifically for turf installation
• Improves poor soil or slow grass-growing areas

How To Apply Turf Topsoil Step-by-Step

Written by turf experts, follow these 5 easy steps to accurately install your turf topsoil:

1. Clear and prepare the ground

Start by removing all weeds, stones, old turf, and debris from the area where you plan to lay new turf. If the ground is compacted, lightly turn over or aerate with a garden fork to break up compacted areas. This will also aid drainage and root penetration.

2. Pile your Turf Topsoil

Using a wheelbarrow to transport your turf topsoil, and use a shovel to deposit even piles of it across the prepared ground.

3. Rake and Level

Using a garden rake, move and spread the piles of turf topsoil until the entire area is evenly covered. You want a 30-40mm layer all over, so avoid any thick or thin spots.

4. Firm into Place

You want your turf topsoil to create a firm, compressed layer. The easiest and most proven way to achieve this is with the ‘gardener’s shuffle’! Wearing appropriate footwear, start in one corner and gently shuffle your way up and down the layer of topsoil, pressing it into place. Afterwards, if any areas look uneven, re-rake and compress down again.

5. Final Check before Turf

Before rolling out your fresh turf, make sure the final layer of turf topsoil is:

• Level and smooth – This will make laying turf easier and help create an even lawn.
• Sitting below paths or patios – Your layer of turf topsoil needs to sit below any edging, allowing room for your rolls of turf.
• Moist but not waterlogged – Our topsoil is workable in all weather conditions, but we would recommend avoiding applying it during heavy rain when it could become waterlogged.

How Much Turf Topsoil Do You Need For A Lawn?

No matter the size of your lawn or the area you’re turfing, the amount of turf topsoil generally stays the same:

• • 30-40mm depth of turf topsoil added above the ground before turfing.

This depth provides enough space for roots to anchor successfully in the ground, bind turf to the soil, improve drainage, and create an even surface for turf. To figure out the quantity of turf topsoil you need to order, our turf topsoil calculator is on hand to help.

If you’re laying turf over poor-quality ground, compacted soil, or rubble, you may need a slightly deeper layer. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to contact the George Davies Turf & Stone team.

The Benefits of Using Turf Topsoil for New Lawns

Ask any landscaping expert, and they will say that using topsoil when installing turf isn’t optional; it’s a critical part of a successful installation. By investing in turf topsoil, you’ll benefit from:

• Making installing turf rolls quicker and easier
• Creating a flat, even lawn
• Helping turf root quickly, evenly, and deeply
• Reducing the risk of dips, hollows and waterlogging
• Supporting a healthier, greener lawn
• Guaranteed results and professional finish
• Reducing turf issues later down the line

Order with the Experts

In our decades of turf growing, we can say for certain that a beautiful lawn does not come from turf alone. It relies on what’s underneath it, and that comes down to the quality of turf topsoil. Whether you’re a homeowner revamping your lawn or a landscaper looking to deliver professional results again and again, using turf topsoil is a must!

At George Davies Turf & Stone, you can order your turf topsoil to collect from our St Albans or Olney depots. Or, why not save yourself the journey and have it delivered directly to your site? When ordering fresh turf, add your essential turf topsoil to the order and have them both delivered together, keeping your project on track. For any further questions, get in touch with our friendly team.

Helpful Articles

• What is the Difference Between Topsoil and Compost?
• How Much Topsoil Should I Use?
• Can I Put Topsoil Down in Winter?

FAQs on Turf Topsoil

What’s the difference between turf topsoil and garden soil?

Turf topsoil is free-draining, screened to a fine texture and designed specifically to aid turf rooting. Garden soil often contains organic matter, stones, and debris, which leaves an inconsistent texture that can hinder turf establishment.

Can I lay turf directly onto soil without turf topsoil?

Yes, you can, but we strongly recommend not to, as the results are rarely good. Adding turf topsoil is a small step that delivers big results, such as better drainage, levelling, and root contact for a long-lasting, healthy lawn.

How soon can I lay turf on turf topsoil?

Ideally, fresh turf should be laid as soon as possible once turf topsoil has been applied. This prevents the soil from drying out or becoming uneven. It also helps the turf establish faster.

Do I use fertiliser and turf topsoil when laying fresh turf?

In most cases, no. Our turf topsoil is nutrient-rich and provides everything your turf needs to establish effectively. Fertiliser can be added later if needed, or in line with the seasons.

Should I use turf topsoil with grass seed when repairing a small area?

Yes. Even if you’re repairing a small damaged or struggling area of grass, we recommend adding turf topsoil before your grass seed to help the seeds root and grow. Topsoil can also help prevent them from blowing away in the wind or from being eaten by birds