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Topsoil for New Turf | Turf Base Guide

Topsoil for New Turf | Turf Base Guide

How to Lay New Turf (Complete Soil & Topsoil Guide for QLD, NSW & VIC)

A healthy lawn starts below the surface. The right soil and topsoil depth help new turf root fast, drain well, and cope with heat and wear.

This guide covers what soil to use under turf, how much topsoil you need, step-by-step preparation, and aftercare for Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.

What Soil Should You Put Under New Turf?

Use a sandy loam turf underlay. It drains well but still holds moisture and nutrients. Look for screened product with low weed seed and balanced organic matter.

How Much Topsoil Do You Need for Turf Installation?

Across QLD, NSW and VIC, 100–150 mm of turf underlay is ideal.

  • <100 mm: shallow roots, poor drainage.
  • >150 mm: waterlogging and compaction risk on clays.

Rules of thumb

  • 100 mm over 50 m² = 5 m³ topsoil
  • 150 mm over 50 m² = 7.5 m³ topsoil

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Soil Before Laying Turf

1) Clear and level

Remove old turf, weeds, rocks and debris. Grade so water flows away from buildings.

2) Test your soil

Check pH and nutrients before you buy amendments. Send an EasyGreen Lab Soil Test (S3), or spot-check with a Hanna GroLine Soil pH Tester. Turf usually performs best around pH 6–7. See NSW DPI – Soil testing.

3) Fix soil issues

4) Spread topsoil

Lay 100–150 mm of screened sandy loam. Smooth and firm with a Greenkeeper & Landscaper Levelawn.

5) Add a starter fertiliser

Use a phosphorus-rich start fertiliser such as ICL Sierrablen Plus with PEARL – Turf Starter.

6) Lightly water and lay turf

Dampen the base. Lay within 24–48 hours for best root contact.

How to Lay Turf on Prepared Soil (Timing & Technique)

Start along the longest straight edge. Stagger joins like brickwork. Press edges tight. Roll or firmly tread to remove air pockets. Cut edges clean with a sharp knife.

Watering and Caring for New Turf After Laying

  • Week 1–2: Water daily (early morning). Keep soil moist, not boggy.
  • Week 3–4: Water every second day, adjust for rain.
  • After 1 month: Deep water once or twice a week to drive roots down.

Deep, infrequent watering builds resilience. See industry research via Hort Innovation (turf irrigation). Maintain growth with lawn fertilisers, e.g. Scotts Lawn Builder All Purpose Slow Release or liquid fertilisers.

Common Mistakes When Laying New Turf

  • Using garden soil or builder’s fill instead of turf underlay.
  • Skipping soil tests and missing pH or nutrient problems.
  • Laying onto dry, dusty soil with no starter fertiliser.
  • Leaving topsoil bare for weeks before turf arrives (weeds invade).

FAQs – Soil, Fertiliser and Preparation for New Turf

How much topsoil do I need for turf?

100–150 mm is standard. That’s 5–7.5 m³ per 50 m² of lawn.

Can I use garden soil under turf?

No. It compacts and drains poorly. Use screened sandy loam plus conditioners like gypsum where needed.

What is the best fertiliser for new turf?

Apply a starter such as ICL Sierrablen Plus with PEARL – Turf Starter. Once established, switch to a slow-release like Scotts Lawn Builder All Purpose or a suitable liquid.

Do buffalo, kikuyu and couch need different soils?

All do well in sandy loam. Buffalo appreciates slightly higher organic matter to hold moisture.

What tools make base preparation easier?

A Levelawn for levelling and topdress spreaders for even finishing.

Final word: Choose the right under-turf soil, set 100–150 mm depth, and follow the prep and watering steps. Your lawn will establish faster and stay healthier.

Shop wetting agents, fertilisers and levelling tools at The Garden Superstore.

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