Sharp Sand

[Beans]

Hello,

I think I need some sand for use both on my waterlogged lawn and for dustbath/scratching for chickens.

Ive seen "river sand" recommended and read warning about normal builders sharp sand containing additives like salt. I however do not have access to "river sand" or fancy horticulture sand.

But I have plenty of access to builders merchants. I have four in walking distance!

So was wondering if anyone knew what typical builders sharp sand in British builders merchants is actually composed of? Do you see any issues using it on lawns, chickens and possibly vegetables like carrots too.

Thankyou.

[rustylady]

Hi Beans - welcome to the Vine. Use of builders sand has been discussed on the forum before - link here http://www.growfruitandveg.co.uk/......and_25568.html

Whereabouts are you? If you add your location to your profile it will show up on your posts and helps enormously when giving advice.

[chris]

I use it for my carrots in pots, Bean - fine and they're not salty in taste either

[Beans]

I am in Birmingham.

I had a feeling about the salt thing being nonsense, because builders use it in mortar/screed concrete mixes, and I know that brickwork containing salt turns white a short time after construction, which annoys people a lot. It would make little sense to be adding salt.

But I was worried about any other mystery additives.

[chris]

Oh, also B&Q sell sand suitable for gardens, I saw it the other day.. I think they label it agrocultural sand or something - basically washed sharp sand

[zazen999]

And they tag a hefty price on it for the pleasure.

I just use any old sand - but then I did spend 14 years testing it and although you can get different grades, shapes, sizes; any sand added to clay will improve drainage and carrots aren't fussed either. Don't know about chickens personally.....