Many people find that sand has excellent benefits for their gardens, including better drainage and improved native soils.
Builders’ sand is a type of sand that is commonly used in construction. It is also known as coarse sand or river sand. Builders’ sand can be used to improve drainage and aeration in garden soil. It is also often used in raised beds and potting soil mixes.
While sand has its benefits, it’s not necessarily a “miracle worker,” as some might believe. It’s also possible to have too much sand, which can be detrimental. In this article, we’ll explore the uses of builder’s sand in the garden and when it’s appropriate to use it:
What Exactly Is Builders Sand?
Builders sand is a type of fine-grained sand that is often used in construction. It is usually mixed with cement to make mortar or concrete.
Depending on its intended use, there are different types of builders’ sand. Coarse builders’ sand is often used for screeding and rendering, while fine builders’ sand is often used for bricklaying.
The sand is also used in landscaping and gardening. It can also be used to make paths, driveways, and patios, as well as a top dressing for lawns.
How Should You Use Builders Sand in Your Garden?
When used as a soil amendment, builders’ sand can help loosen compacted soil and improve drainage. It can also be used to level out an uneven surface. Be sure to mix builders’ sand with existing soil before planting, and do not use it as a top dressing.
If you are using builders sand to improve drainage in your garden, mix it with your soil at a ratio of 1 part sand to 2 parts soil. Work the sand into the top 6-8 inches of soil to ensure good drainage. If you have heavy clay soil, adding a layer of builders’ sand can help to improve drainage and prevent waterlogging. It can also be used to create raised beds, further improving drainage.
Builders’ sand can also be used as mulch. Spread a layer of builders sand around plants, careful not to touch the plant leaves or stems. This will help keep weeds at bay and help the soil retain moisture.
When using builders’ sand in your garden, monitor the soil moisture levels. It is also essential to make sure that you use the right type. Coarse sand is best for drainage applications, while fine sand is better for top dressing and paving.
Sand does not hold moisture well, so your plants may need to be watered more often. Also, be sure not to use too much builders sand, as it can compact the soil and make it difficult for roots to grow.
When using builders’ sand in your garden, it is vital to make sure that you use the right type. Coarse sand is best for drainage applications, while fine sand is better for top dressing and paving.
Why Should You Use Builders Sand for Your Garden?
There are many benefits of using builders sand in your garden. One of the main benefits is that it is very versatile. You can use it for various tasks, such as creating paths, driveways, or planting.
Another benefit of using builders’ sand is that it is very affordable. This type of sand is very easy to find and is often used in construction projects. This means that it is very affordable for most people.
Builders’ sand is also very easy to work with. It is easy to shovel and move around. This makes it an excellent option for those who are not experienced in working with sand.
Overall, builders sand is a great option for your garden. It is versatile, affordable, and easy to work with. This makes it an excellent choice for a variety of projects.
Other Uses of Builders’ Sand in Your Garden
Apart from the applications already mentioned above, here are other uses of builders’ sand in the garden or greenhouse:
As Seed-Starting Mix
Seeds germinate better in a lightweight medium drains well because some seeds will start to rot when exposed to too much moisture. Also, seedlings kept overly moist are more at risk of getting diseased.
Unlike peat moss, sand allows light to get through to the seeds that need a little sunlight to germinate.
Sowing Small Seeds
Sand is essential in a seed-starting soil mix and when sowing tiny seeds. All you need to do is mix the smallest seeds with a few tablespoons of sand and sprinkle the mixture over an area to be sown.
Potting
Even larger plants require good drainage. Builders’ sand gives that and offers the benefit of anchoring bigger plants.
If you’re making your potting soil, make sure to incorporate sand into your mix to ensure that your potted plants won’t be sitting in water for long.
Propagating Cuttings
If you have herbs or flowering plants that you want to propagate, you can use your coarse builders’ sand for the rooting cuttings. Once you have your cuttings, you only need to fill your two-inch pot with builders’ sand that’s a little bit moist. With the use of a chopstick, you can create a hole in the sand where you’ll slip the cutting into.
Storing Root Crops
Did you know that root crops or vegetables will keep for six months or so when buried in builders’ sand? All you need to do is gently clean your root crops or vegetables with their tops cut off. Moisten the sand and then start organizing the rights based on size. Make sure no root touches another.
Conclusion
Although it is not typically used for gardening, builders’ sand can be a helpful addition to your greenhouse or garden. You can use it to help your seedlings grow, improve the drainage in your potting soil, or store root vegetables over winter. With its many uses and low cost, builders sand is an excellent material to have on hand for your gardening needs.
Enviro Skip Hire can provide you with builders’ sand that you can use for your garden in Cheshire. Place an order for your builders’ sand today!
