What's the best way to lay turf in a clay garden

[andydingdang]

Hi, we have recently decided to lay turf in our previously paved garden. We have dug down a foot and levelled the area but the ground is now mostly clay. When it rains the water tends to sit on top. The idea is to put down 6 inches of top soil and then turf, can any one tell me if this will be enough for the rain to drain away or what should we do?

[craft1948]

I have this problem with my garden and have been told that if I just turf it as it stands the lawn will just sink. Apparently I need a soak away...whatever that is.....

[craft1948]

cheers nokno........that sounds similar to what the builder said....

[buildersmate]

I'd consider buying about 10 tonnes of sharp sand (a lorry load) and mix that in. You've got to find a way of getting the soil to drain or the turf just won't grow well. Quite a small price extra to pay given the price of expensive turf.