adding sand to clay soil

[Alison Adams]

I am working on a new garden which includes some filled in bits where there had previously been a big hole. It was filled with rubble and the soil was mostly clay. Yummy Hubby has dug out the junk and rocks and we have a raised bed shaped hole about 6-8 inches deep, with a clay soil base. I plan to mix in some sand or grit to lighten the clay before putting the sides on and filling with compost and topsoil.

The question: does the sand have to be 'sharp' ? I have some kids play sand that is 'soft' sand and wonder whether that could be recycled and dug into the soil ? Seems a shame not to use it as it is there, but this is for an asparagus bed so I am being careful to get it right first go. Dont mind that it may be more expensive, its not being used for anything else.

Any advice appreciated.

[Nicos]

from what I recall- sandpit sand granules are much the same size and will clag together when wet. Sharp sand isn't and therefore allows better drainage.

I can't see any harm in adding a small amount- but no more than that!

Asparagus eh??..yum yum!

[ann-the-nan]

adding sand to clay soil

our soil is clay and very claggy. I have been adding council compost (and some I made earlier ) and it seems to be working.

[SarzWix]

I agree with Nicos, the sand pit sand won't do as good a job as sharp sand would. And if it's in the bottom of the bed, I'd be tempted to go for grit, which is even bigger and will give better drainage.

[Alison Adams]

Ann,
how do you get your 'council compost' and how can you be sure there is nothing bad in it ? I could always do with more than I make. I bought some sharp sand today, that will dig into the holes tomorrow, then compost covered with cardboard and topsoil and we will be ready for the asparagus crowns when they arrive - cant wait ! well, I will have to I know for two whole years, but at least the clock will have started !

[toastie]

Our allotment is clay and when wet turns into one big sticky mess. Have spent the last few years adding our own compost, chicken manure, horse manure, bought compost in an attempt to make the soil more 'useable'. Think one of the main problems is that you need to ensure that whatever you add comes from a 'good' source as you could end up with a big problem e.g. nothing germinating, plants dying, blight etc etc.