Want grass over my clay

[Jameswren]

Hello

I'm after advice on the best grass I should use to get a nice lawn in my garden.

The sub-soil is heavy clay. I have lifted a layer and replaced with decent quality top soil last year. The area now has some moss and weeds which I'll get rid of soon.

What's the best method for getting a lush lawn? Turf or seed? Whichever method is better, is there a particular type of seed/turf to go for?

Does the soil type do tact the best type of grass to use?


James

 

[JohnD]

you would do better to fork in some gypsum (yes, it flocculates clay) and apply plenty of coarse sand so that the surface can drain. Frequent hollow tining and topdressings will help. However compost and organic matter will encourage worms. Although they improve the soil, wormcasts encourage weeds.

 

[Jameswren]

Thanks for the reply.

I had read about applying some gypsum and has te remains of a bag of multi finish available.

There is quite a bit of sand there from the previous owner's attempt at a pond (or something) so drainage wasn't an issue over winter, despite the weather.

How about the grass I lay? Will any type do or should I find down thing suitable?

 

[JohnD]

you can get fine grass or coarse grass. Fine will not stand up to footballing or walking on much.

In a couple of years local wild grass seed will have colonised it anyway.