19/11/2025
Frequently, customers contact us regarding the application of sandy loam and the rental of our Eco 250 Spreader. Adam from TheLawnHub presents a detailed guide on spreading and highlights its ease of use. Adelaide Garden Equipment Hire TheLawnHub Adelaide Garden Equipment Hire
Top dressing is the process of spreading sand or soil over the lawn to improve levels, create a smoother surface for mowing, and assist slightly with drainage.
So, should you use sand or soil?
If you are levelling only, meaning you have a couple of low spots that you want to smooth out, then sand is the best option. Sand is also great for filling core holes, which helps with drainage. Choosing the right sand can be confusing, so here is a simple guide. When Clint had Railways Landscape Supplies in the southern suburbs of Adelaide (now SA Landscape Supplies) we offered a dedicated top dress sand that was triple washed and had multiple particle sizes so it never bound together and always stayed consistent. Not all landscape yards are the same, so I recommend calling your local yard and asking what top dress sand they stock. Make sure it is clean and not mixed with organic material. If your local yard cannot give you a clear answer, call your nearest golf course and ask what they use.
If you have larger holes or dips caused by tree removal or, like me, an over excited dog when she was younger, then soil is the better option. Aim to match the existing soil as closely as possible. If you did not lay the lawn and have no idea what is underneath, an 80/20 loam mix is a safe and commonly available choice.
There are also a couple of sands and soils you should avoid. Do not use brickie sand, as it often reacts with the soil and can form a hard crust on the surface. This creates a barrier that prevents proper water pe*******on. I have also seen people use organic soils that contain mulch materials like bark chips. If you are looking for a soil that helps with moisture retention, choose a screened compost instead. It will hold water far better without creating lumps or causing issues when mowing.
I recommend buying from your local landscape yard for two reasons. First, they specialise in this and can guide you toward the right product. Second, it is far more cost effective. Even if you only need a few hundred kilograms, it will be much cheaper than buying multiple bags from a hardware store.
- Adam
