Laying turf over rubble

cameron_laura1 · May 2022

Hi there

I recently bought a house that had a very old disused pond

.

it was too expensive to re-instate as everything had perished. I would like a bit more of a grass area to start adding layers to the garden ffor more use, so thought i could lay turf in this bit. and was told best to fill in pond, but that's expensive as quite deep and having just had an old fireplace ripped out I got them to put the rubble in the pond.

Now I don't know next step. I don't have loads of money so was hoping this would help, but I assume will I still need to get maybe some more pebbles, sand and top soil before I lay the turf?

Any suggestions and guidance on next steps would be most welcome!! Have posted 2 photos of area for full view of garden and then pond area so far!

Thank you!!

Arthur1 · May 2022

I used to work for a landscaper who planted new gardens on building sites. He basically put a layer of sand over all the rubbish, raked it level then put turf on top. Irrigated until it knitted together.
Far from ideal but it's amazing what plants will grow in. Just do what you have the time and money to do. Don't stress about getting it perfect.

Fairygirl · May 2022

While grass will certainly grow in quite a shallow amount of soil, trying to fill in a big hole and then add grass won't be easy. Unless you add enough material and consolidate it properly, and then prep the area well, that part will keep sinking, and you'll need to keep amending it.
Every year we get umpteen queries on the forum about grass failing because of the problem of compacted rubbish on new build sites which just get a bit of soil chucked on and then some turf.

Laying turf over rubble

Posts