Here's How To Choose The Right Type Of Sand For A Lush And Level Lawn

Every homeowner knows the frustration of a lawn that looks more patchy than plush and more uneven than inviting. You water and mow on schedule, yet the grass refuses to cooperate. The truth is, sometimes it's not the care that's lacking but what lies beneath. Sand, often overlooked, plays a defining role in making your lawn lush and level. It keeps grass roots thriving by ensuring each blade grows strong, while also smoothing out dips and ruts to create a picture-perfect surface. That said, you need to choose the correct type of sand depending on your aims behind sanding the lawn. 

If you're adding it for overall vitality, washed quartz sand (also known as silica sand) will work well. It will improve aeration, loosen compacted soil, and enhance drainage. These are the conditions that grass roots absolutely love. On the other hand, if you need to level the lawn, fine-grain masonry sand mixed with organic matter is your go-to option. This type of topdressing mix restores order by filling in patchy lawn holes that make mowing a hassle and the yard an eyesore. A level lawn also protects against erosion and makes the entire outdoor space more usable. 

Quartz sand works well to improve your lawn because its texture allows for better drainage and aeration. This means roots get the oxygen and moisture balance they need to grow stronger and greener. How much sand you should use depends primarily on whether you've scarified or aerated beforehand. If you are sanding after scarification, aim for 0.04 cubic yards per 100 square feet, and if after aerating with spikes, then 0.06 cubic yards per 100 square feet will do. After core aeration, add 0.07 cubic yards of sand per 100 square feet of lawn.

Once you've determined the right amount sand, application is usually straightforward but deserves a little finesse. Start by distributing the sand evenly across your lawn using a sand spreader or, for smaller spaces, a trusty wheelbarrow. At this stage, seeing uneven piles of sand is perfectly fine; they're part of the process. Next, pull a rake across the surface. First, use the flat back to break down the piles. Then flip to the tines for a finer spread. To finish, grab a sturdy push broom and work the sand into the grass until it settles neatly into the soil.

Fine masonry sand mixed with organic matter is your best bet for topdressing a lawn if you need to level it. The ideal ratio of sand to organic material is one to one, although you may want to have more sand in the mix if you're dealing with clay soil. The sand's small particles slip easily into dips and shallow depressions, while the organic mix helps bind everything together and supports healthy root growth.

Start by mowing your lawn and giving it a good dethatching. This clears away the layer of dead grass, helping you see the lawn's contours; it also allows the sand mixture to settle where it needs to. Once you've prepared the ground, spread your topdressing mix. Fill the dips thoroughly with a thin layer of the mixture. If you notice a deep low spot, consider digging up and lifting the sod. You don't want the grass at the bottom to get buried and die. Once done, use a garden rake to feather the mix evenly. This will allow the mixture to blend into the surrounding turf so everything looks smooth. The final step is a generous watering, which helps the sand settle and encourages the grass to knit back over the newly leveled ground.