Is sand really useful in your garden? Sometimes gardens just look like they’re lacking a little something – whether you have a patchy lawn, a worn-out pathway or maybe you’re struggling to get your flowers to bloom. But what is it that could possibly be missing? When it comes to landscaping, one crucial component that can make any garden look gorgeous is landscaping sand.

When you think of sand, most will instantly start thinking about idyllic beaches, but there are various types of sand that you can use in your garden that actually hold the power to completely transform it. In this article, we’re going to list the top uses for landscaping sand so you can understand how to take an average garden and make it spectacular.

1. Sand is used for soil aeration and drainage

A beautiful, blooming garden starts soil deep. When it comes to keeping a garden looking like an oasis, compacted soil can be a gardener’s enemy number one. Hard soil not only hinders proper water drainage but can also stunt root growth and deprive your plants of their essential nutrients. 

How does sand help with aeration and drainage? By mixing sand with your soil, you can help improve the structure of the soil – the mix of coarse grains forms space for pockets of air, which allows the roots more space to breathe and grow more freely and allows for adequate drainage to prevent water-logged soil. In turn, using sand can help you grow stronger, healthier plants that are less prone to root rot. 

2. Sand can help with weed control

Name one thing more relentless than weeds – just leave your garden unattended for a few days, and they’ll try to take over everything from the lawn to the flowerbeds. When weeds thrive in a garden, they make your plants compete for water, sunlight and nutrients, so if you want a mesmerising garden, you need to find a way to best prevent and take out weeds. Sand can help with this. 

By adding just a thin layer of sand over your soil, you can give it a natural weed barrier. The sand makes it more challenging to take root and push through because of the dense layers. Therefore, they won’t be able to grow as easily and will also be a lot easier to pull out. 

3. Sand can be used as mulch 

All gardeners should be big fans of mulch! An easy way to add some mulch is to get your hands on some landscaping sand. While some plants are hardier than others, many of your flowers need some help to face more extreme weather conditions. Using sand can provide your soil with a protective shield to give your plants a fighting chance when you experience really hot or wet weather by keeping the roots in prime condition.

4. Sand can be used for pathways

One thing that can make your garden look more untidy, or even a little dangerous, is an unkempt and unstable pathway. But, with just a thin layer of sand, you can add some stability or even create a whole new pathway that is safe and smooth to walk on. When choosing to use beach sand will give your garden a somewhat boho, beachy vibe, and it’s also pretty effortless to maintain – you just need to give it a quick rake, and it’ll have a fresh appearance.

5. Sand creates wonderful areas to play

Not only is sand super functional and adds a new aesthetic to your garden, but it can also make it more fun for those who have kids and want to add a play area. Adding some sand is a brilliant solution. It will create a soft surface for kids to run on and play and soften the impact if they fall. Or you could build a sandpit where they can build sandcastles and get creative. If you have the space and love beach sports, you could even make your own volleyball area right in your backyard. 

6. You can create a zen garden 

For those who are looking to use sand to turn their garden into a more tranquil space where you can reflect on life and escape the busyness – then you can use sand to create a zen garden. Choose a spot in your garden, create a border, add some sand, ornamental grass, and maybe even a small water feature to add some ambience, and just like that, you’ll have your own zen garden. 

What are the different types of landscaping sand you can use in your garden?

There are various types of sand you can use for landscaping. These sand supplies include but are not limited to: 

  • Utility sand 
  • Masonry sand
  • Beach sand
  • River sand 
  • Fill sand

Final Thoughts

It’s time to elevate the aesthetic and health of your garden by just adding some sand. From being a natural weed prevention to helping create the perfect place for kids to play or you to relax, there are many uses for sand, and it’s about time to start reaping the benefits. 

Author

Rethinking The Future (RTF) is a Global Platform for Architecture and Design. RTF through more than 100 countries around the world provides an interactive platform of highest standard acknowledging the projects among creative and influential industry professionals.