Garden guide
How to Prepare Ground for Turf (and How Much Topsoil You Need)
The short version
Turf needs 10–15cm of prepared topsoil to root into. Skimp on the preparation and the best turf in the world will still struggle.
Step 1 — clear and dig
Remove old grass, weeds, roots and rubble. Dig or rotavate to at least 15cm, breaking up compacted ground so roots and water can move freely.
Step 2 — add topsoil
If your soil is thin or poor, add screened topsoil to reach 10–15cm depth. To calculate it: area (m²) × depth (cm) × 10 = litres needed. Our topsoil calculator prices bulk and handy bags for you.
Step 3 — level and firm
Rake level, then tread the whole area with small overlapping steps. Rake again to a fine, crumbly tilth. The surface should be firm enough that your heel barely marks it.
Step 4 — lay and water
Lay turf within 24–48 hours of delivery, stagger the joints like brickwork, and water daily until established. Use the turf calculator for roll quantities — it adds 5% for cuts automatically.