Turf Establishment, Topdressing & Site Conditions
Turf establishment - How to use compost
Compost should be applied at 25 - 30mm deep and then incorporated to an approximate depth of 100-150mm. The compost application rate will vary depending on the soil conditions, compost type, and turf species.
A soil analysis test is recommended to establish the quality of the site soil. Once incorporated, a proper seed bed should be established and the seed lightly brushed into the surface using a drag mat or rake. Turf may be applied directly on to the soil surface either manually, or with specialised equipment. Once planting is completed, the area should be fertilised if necessary and watered on an ongoing basis to ensure adequate rooting.
Turf Topdressing
Compost can be used as a topdressing for all areas of turf, either as a component of a mix, or on its own. Compost can be blended with various other materials such as sand and loam to produce a product that matches requirements, especially closely mown turf and same-dominated, free draining sports turf rootzones.
Apply to the turf surface at a rate of 6mm to 12mm, brush in and water if necessary. Use the lower rate on sports turf and lawns and the higher rate on low maintenance grass and roadside verges. Core aeration techniques can also be used.The compost should be moist but flowable to facilitate application.
Site Conditions
The site drainage must be adequate before planting takes place. Subsoils may need to be ripped to relieve compacted layers. This should not be done when the soil is too wet. Nitrogen in compost is mainly in a slow-release form and may not provide enough nitrogen in the first few weeks of growth - where soils are particularly low in nutrients you may supplement with a nitrogen fertiliser.
