Will Existing Grass Grow Through A Layer Of Topsoil? (2024)

A common question asked by gardeners and landscapers alike is can you apply topsoil over an existing lawn and if so, can the grass grow through? There could be several reasons for asking this question from wanting to level a lawn, adding extra nutrients to your garden turf without digging it up, achieving better drainage and much more!

In this guide, we’ll give you the answer once and for all so you don’t have to keep wondering whether it’s okay to put topsoil over an existing lawn – plus we give you the top tips to keep your grass looking lush when adding topsoil!

Can I put topsoil over grass?

If you’re looking for a short answer, then yes, you can put topsoil over grass and existing garden lawns. Although it’s possible for grass to grow through the topsoil, this can only be successful depending on the thickness of topsoil applied as a top dressing. Please note that before applying topsoil over existing grass, you will need to mow the turf first.

As a general rule of thumb, you should add 2-3cm of topsoil directly on top of the turf as this will give enough space for the grass tips to shoot through onto the other side. Any more than this amount can cause the existing lawn underneath to die due to a lack of sunlight and too little won’t create the desired result.

Prepare the ground first

Before setting out on putting topsoil over an existing set of lawn turf, there are a few things to be considered and checked first.

Mowing the grass

Before applying over existing grass, you will need to mow the turf first. This is recommended due to the fact it will give you the best chance of having a lush lawn when the grass eventually grows through the layer of topsoil.

When should you put topsoil on top of a lawn?

Spring is the best time of year to put topsoil on top of garden turf, as this will allow your grass time to grow whilst providing sufficient water and nutrients for the soil to settle.

Pre-water your lawn

Several days before you plan to apply lawn and turf topsoil over grass, it will need to be watered to ensure that the existing lawn is in the best condition possible. Be careful not to overwater your lawn, as wet grass may not seek through the layer of topsoil.

The next steps

Once you have placed an even 2-3cm layer of topsoil above the desired location, you should push the soil down with either your feet, hands or flat side of a rake and make it compact, then water the soil gently and leave to settle in.

After a couple of days, you should add grass seed and a further light layer of topsoil in order to establish a thick and healthy patch of grass. Again pat down and water gently.

If you’re looking to overhaul your garden and want to create a new patch of grass, we’ve also created a guide on how to lay turf on topsoil as the method will be different from the one laid out here.

Where can I purchase topsoil and turf from?

Alsoils+ have been servicing domestic and trade customers for over 35 years with the highest quality topsoil, leaving you safe in the knowledge that we can cater for your needs. We supply premium topsoil and turf, so you can be sure your garden is given the love it deserves.