You have to do some preparation work before you lay rolls of turf. While this usually involves digging a patch of earth and then adding a layer of underlay to the soil.

This underlay sits on top of the ground under the turf you lay. What does the underlay contain and why should you use it?

What Is Turf Underlay?

Turf underlay is a mix of materials. It usually consists of things like soil, clay, sand, fertiliser, minerals and nutrients.

This underlay acts as a topsoil on your lawn once you have cleared the ground. It creates a special bed for turf rolls when you put the underlay down.

Why Use a Turf Underlay?

Gardeners mainly use a turf underlay to help new lawns bed in. This layer creates a high-quality topsoil that contains everything new turf needs to settle into its new home and flourish.

Each component of the underlay has a specific job. For example, if your underlay has sand or clay in it, then these materials create a heavy and stable base for the turf to sit on.

Any soil in the mix helps trap water under the turf at the root level. It also works with materials like sand to help you establish better drainage under the grass.

Nutrients, minerals and organic materials improve the quality of the earth. They also give the turf a nutritional boost and level its acidity/alkalinity as it sets down and establishes its root system.

Even if your ground is in fairly good condition, it's worth laying an underlay. It gives your new turf the best start. If your new lawn takes quickly and effectively, it will be more robust in the future.

If your soil isn't in great shape, then a turf underlay is invaluable. This mixture will improve poor soil and create a healthy layer for the turf to bed into. Your lawn won't have to struggle to establish itself after you lay it.

Plus, you can also use a turf underlay to even out bumps and dips in the ground. If you get things straight at this stage, your lawn will ultimately be flat and even.

To find out more about turf underlay and how to use it, talk to your lawn supply company. They can help you choose the right product for your turf and give you advice on how to use it to prepare the ground.

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