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Subsoil Help

_Silvio__Silvio_ Posts: 14
in Problem solving
Hi All

I have a new build garden and along 2 sides of the garden I have 30cm on topsoil and below this is pure compacted sharp sand to about 1 meter. (that is as deep as I was able to check) 

I wish to plant standard fruit trees, shrubs perennials etc but fear that the sand subsoil will not substane the roots at all and if waterlogged will cause rot in the winter months.

Can someone advise if this will be ok do I need to get a mini digger in to remove the sand? 

Posts

  • BobTheGardenerBobTheGardener Posts: 11,385
    It will probably be fine as trees and shrubs usually have their 'feeding roots' (which take in nutrients) near the surface, and their 'drinking roots' go much deeper in search of water.  Sandy subsoil shouldn't get waterlogged in winter as it should drain well.  Adding copious amount of organic matter such as well-rotted manure or spent mushroom compost will really help, and with it being a new build, it can be dug in before you start planting things.
    A trowel in the hand is worth a thousand lost under a bush.
  • LoxleyLoxley Posts: 5,698
    On a new build, sharp sand or sandy subsoil is actually good to have. Much less problematic than clay, which is very sensitive to compaction. For example, this is what we would specify on a new build requiring imported subsoil. It's 93% sand! Trying to replace with a higher clay content subsoil will probably result in a muddy poorly draining mess. Dig organic matter in when you plant trees fruit bushes etc. This will help the soil hang on to nutrients and water. There are many perennials etc which really do better on sandy, lean soil.
    "What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbour". 
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