Applying sand to turf, also known as topdressing, is a process used to help maintain healthy grass and improve the quality of turf on lawns, golf courses, athletic fields, and more. There are a few key reasons why applying sand to grass can be beneficial:
Levels the Turf Surface
Over time, use and irregular watering can cause dips, bumps, and uneven spots in the turf. Spreading a thin layer of sand across the grass will help fill in low spots and smooth out minor surface irregularities. This helps create a more uniform, flat, and visually appealing lawn or playing surface.
Improves Drainage
Sand particles are able to improve drainage and aerate compacted soil when worked down into the grass roots and thatch layer. This allows for better water penetration and airflow to the turf roots. Proper drainage is important for healthy grass growth.
Adds Weight for Stabilization
The added weight of the sand can help stabilize turf areas that get a lot of foot traffic, like sports fields. The extra weight pushes the grass blades down and trains them to stay more upright. This results in a tighter, denser playing surface.
How Much Sand Should You Apply?
When topdressing a lawn or sports field, only a thin layer of sand is needed. Most experts recommend applying between 1/8 to 1/4 inch of sand. Applying more than 1/2 inch of sand at a time is not recommended, as this can smother the underlying grass.
For golf greens that get regular topdressing, the sand layer is often heavier at 1/4 to 3/8 inches. Greens have very dense, hardy turf grass that can tolerate more sand.
What Type of Sand is Best?
Look for a clean, weed-free coarse sand specifically formulated for topdressing lawns. Avoid fine sands like play sand, which can compact down into a concrete-like layer underfoot. Masonry sand or sharp sands with jagged edges are also not suitable and can damage turf blades.
Ideally, look for a medium coarse sand with particle sizes ranging from 0.5 to 1.0mm. This will move down through the grass canopy easiest. Well-rounded sands will be less likely to cut or abrade the tender grass blades.
When to Apply Sand to Turf
Timing is an important consideration when topdressing turf. Here are some ideal times to apply sand:
- Early fall when grass is actively growing
- Spring during green-up and growth flush
- Early summer to increase heat and drought tolerance
- During turf renovations or overseeding projects
- On sports turf, timed between competitive sports seasons
Avoid topdressing during turf dormancy or when temperatures are regularly above 85°F, as grass growth will be minimal.
How to Apply Topdressing Sand
There are a few different methods and tools you can use to apply sand evenly across your lawn or sports field:
Manual Spreading
The simplest method is to manually spread the sand using a shovel or scoop and a lawn spreader. Walk up and down the turf while flinging sand in sweeping motions for even coverage.
Push Spreader
A push spreader makes sand application fast and easy. Load sand in the hopper and push across the lawn or field. These offer a more controlled spread pattern than manual throwing.
Tow-Behind Spreader
For large turf areas, a tow-behind spreader attached to an ATV or tractor can efficiently broadcast sand. Models with drop down spreaders provide the most uniform sand dispersion.
Sand Injectors
Specialized sand injector machines can shoot sand down into the turf canopy while removing debris. This requires less sand volume to achieve results. Sand injectors are commonly used on golf courses.
Topdressing Tips
Follow these tips for successful sand topdressing application:
- Mow turf short before applying sand for better penetration down to soil level.
- Water turf thoroughly before topdressing so sand moves into soil easier.
- Apply sand evenly in 2 directions for uniform coverage.
- Use a drag mat or piece of carpet to smooth sand after application.
- Water lightly after topdressing to move sand through canopy to soil surface.
- Allow turf to dry out between watering to avoid leaching sand from lawn.
- Consider aerating before sand application to improve penetration.
- Add seed to sand or overseed after sanding to fill any minor thinning.
- Topdress when temps are below 85°F to avoid grass stress.
- Sweep walkways clean after sanding to avoid tracking.
Working Sand into Turf
After spreading sand across the lawn or sports turf, additional steps need to be taken to work the sand down through the grass canopy into the root zone where it is most beneficial. This involves irrigation, grooming, mowing, and rolling the turf.
Irrigation
Light, frequent irrigation is key after sand application to water it down through the grass blades. Apply 1/8 to 1/4 inch of water 2-3 times per day for a few days. This will gradually move the sand into the soil profile.
Grooming and Mowing
Use a stiff drag mat, piece of carpet, or special power groomer to rake the sand into the turf canopy. Setting the mower deck low and mowing after the sand has dried will also brush sand down closer to the soil level where it needs to be.
Rolling
For sports fields and golf greens, a heavy roller is used after topdressing to press the sand firmly into the turf. This smooths the surface and pushes sand into the playing surface. Be cautious not to excessively roll residential lawns.
Turf Recovery After Sanding
It takes some time for turf to recover after sand topdressing. Here is what to expect:
- Turf will appear thin, patchy and discolored immediately after sanding.
- Full recovery can take 2-3 weeks depending on weather and turf type.
- Consider overseeding after sanding for quicker fill-in.
- Temporary disruption to turf is normal, grass will regrow through sand layer.
- First mowing after sanding should be done with care to avoid scalping.
- Increase irrigation and avoid excessive traffic until turf has recovered.
Be patient, the full benefits of sand topdressing will take effect in time after the grass has grown up through the thin sand layer applied.
Benefits of Proper Sand Topdressing
Although sanding disrupts turf temporarily, the benefits make it worthwhile:
- Smooths out uneven turf for a consistent playing or mowing surface.
- Opens up tightly compacted soils through aeration.
- Reduces thatch accumulation in older lawns.
- Improves water, nutrient, and oxygen delivery to the roots.
- Sand grains can reflect sunlight, reducing heat stress.
- Provides firmer stability and traction on sports turf fields.
- Fills in divots and wear areas on athletic fields.
Correctly applying sand to your turf at recommended intervals will promote healthier soil biology and grass growth for years to come.
Topdressing Frequency
Most residential lawns only need sand topdressing every 2-3 years. Those with heavy traffic or use may require it annually. Athletic fields and golf greens often get very frequent light sand topdressing.
Typical topdressing frequency guidelines:
| Turf Type | Topdressing Frequency |
|---|---|
| Home lawns | Every 2-3 years |
| Public parks | Annually |
| Athletic fields | 1-2 times per year |
| Golf greens | 14-30 times per year |
Use the lower end of the frequency ranges for lower traffic turf, and more often for highly-used turf. Topdress as needed to maintain smooth, firm playing surfaces.
Pros and Cons of Sand Topdressing
Sanding offers many benefits, but also comes with some drawbacks to consider when managing turfgrass:
Pros
- Smooths uneven turf surface
- Improves drainage and reduces compaction
- Helps control thatch
- Adds stability and traction on sports fields
- Fills in divots and low spots
- Improves grass health when done properly
Cons
- Can be labor intensive to apply sand
- Requires special equipment for large areas
- Disrupts turf appearance temporarily
- Too much sand can smother grass
- Needs proper watering or sand blows away
- Frequent sanding can alter soil composition
Proper topdressing techniques and timing the applications correctly will provide the maximum benefits while minimizing negative effects.
Conclusion
Sand topdressing offers a wealth of benefits for managing high quality turfgrass. By filling in depressions, smoothing the surface, aiding drainage, and improving growth, sanding contributes to a lush, durable lawn or sports field. Make sure to use the proper sand type, apply it at the right time, water appropriately, and allow the turf to recover. With a thoughtful topdressing program, your grass will thrive under a light coating of sand.
