
If you want to grow grass on a concrete patio, you have a few options. You could try a product like SuperSod, which is a mat of jute and hemp containing grass seed that can be rolled out on top of concrete. You could also try building a planter on top of your concrete patio and filling it with soil to grow grass. Another option is to break up the concrete and remove it, then add soil and lay grass. Finally, you could opt for artificial turf, which would not require any soil or irrigation.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Grass type | Tall turf-type fescues |
Grass thickness | Thick-bladed and tall (mowed at least two inches high) |
Soil thickness | 10-15cm of topsoil is the recommended minimum |
Soil type | Potting soil, dirt made for sod, or a mixture of both |
Drainage | Requires good drainage, otherwise the grass may die |
Watering | Requires frequent watering, especially when waiting for the seed to sprout |
Weeds | The mats used to grow grass on concrete can suppress weeds |
Time | Takes a few weeks for the seed to germinate |
What You'll Learn
- Use a product like SuperSod, which contains grass seed, jute, hemp and a layer of mulch
- Create a planter with wooden boards, fill it with potting soil and lay sod on top
- Lay gravel, then soil and sod on top of the concrete
- Use artificial turf
- Treat the concrete like a green roof, using a growing medium designed for turf
Use a product like SuperSod, which contains grass seed, jute, hemp and a layer of mulch
SuperSod is a product that looks like padding put under carpets. It is a 1/4-inch-thick mat of jute and hemp, with a layer of grass seed inside. To plant a lawn, you need to prepare and level the soil, roll out the mats, and then lightly cover them with a layer of mulch or an amendment such as Gromulch. Water the mats frequently to keep them and the seed wet.
In a couple of weeks, the seed will germinate and you will have a lawn. Over time, the mat will disintegrate. SuperSod contains everything the seed needs, so you can even grow it on top of concrete.
The grass seed inside SuperSod is a blend of tall turf-type fescues, which are deep-rooted, tough, and somewhat drought-resistant. They do not spread into flower beds or creep over paving. They have a natural, almost meadow-like look, with thick blades that should be mowed to a minimum of two inches high.
SuperSod avoids the drawbacks of growing a lawn from seed, which is hard to spread evenly and tends to collect in low spots when watered. It is also easier to keep wet while you wait for the seed to sprout. SuperSod is also similar to the erosion control netting used on slopes, so it is a good option for starting a lawn on a slope. The mats also suppress weeds and prevent birds from eating the seed.
SuperSod is available in rolls of 2-by-20-foot (40 square feet), 4-by-50-foot (200 square feet), or 6-by-100-foot (600 square feet).
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Create a planter with wooden boards, fill it with potting soil and lay sod on top
To create a planter with wooden boards, fill it with potting soil, and lay sod on top, follow these steps:
Planning and Materials
First, evaluate your space. The ideal location for your planter should receive full sun and be fairly level. Consider the size of your planter and how much you want to grow. You can use repurposed wood to save money, such as off-cuts of decking or wooden pallets.
Building the Planter
Next, cut your wood to size. Measure and cut your wood, trying to cut the ends as squarely as possible for a smooth finish. Use the first piece as a template to cut the remaining pieces. You can also get your wood cut in-store.
Now, assemble your planter. Drill pilot holes in each length of wood for the screws, about 2.5mm from the end. Lay out the pieces, forming a frame, and use a set square to ensure the joints are square. Attach the pieces with screws. Cut and attach a base if your planter will sit on paving or decking. Line the planter with plastic to prevent chemicals from killing your plants or to protect the wood from rotting.
Preparing the Planter
Add a layer of gravel, broken pots, or large stones to the bottom of the planter for drainage. Then, fill it with potting soil. Pack the soil and break up any chunks to ensure it is even. You can also top it with dirt made specifically for sod to give it the best chance of surviving.
Laying the Sod
Finally, lay the sod on top. Take your time to ensure the sod is level and free of lumps. Water the sod frequently to keep it wet. In a couple of weeks, the seed will germinate and you will have a lawn.
Tips
- Provide adequate drainage, bed depth, and high-quality soil for the plants to grow well.
- Do not place the soil directly on the concrete as it may increase the pH of your soil over time.
- Use stainless steel screws to prevent rusting.
- Use a combination of potting soil, planting or raised bed mix, and compost to retain moisture and provide nutrients for the grass.
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Lay gravel, then soil and sod on top of the concrete
If you want to grow grass on a concrete patio, you can lay gravel, then soil, and sod on top of the concrete. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Clean the Concrete Surface
Start by thoroughly cleaning the concrete surface. Sweep away any dirt, debris, or substances like de-icing salt that may be present. This step is important because any substances left on the concrete could leach into the soil and potentially harm the grass or affect nutrient intake and soil pH.
Step 2: Prepare the Gravel Base
Spread a layer of gravel over the concrete. This will serve as a base for your soil and sod. The gravel will help with drainage and provide a stable foundation for your grass. Make sure the gravel layer is level and compacted before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Add Soil
On top of the gravel base, add a layer of high-quality topsoil. If your concrete patio is surrounded by grass, add at least 2 inches of topsoil. The soil will compress over time, so it's best to make it slightly higher than the surrounding grass to allow for proper drainage. If your patio is not surrounded by grass, you can create a raised bed using treated wooden boards to contain the soil.
Step 4: Choose the Right Grass
Select a turfgrass species that is suitable for growing over concrete. Turfgrass has shallow roots, typically only requiring about 1 inch of nutrient-rich soil. Avoid native grasses, as they may require deeper soil for their roots to survive. Consider the amount of sunlight and foot traffic the area receives when choosing your grass type.
Step 5: Lay the Sod
Lay strips of sod on top of the soil. Sod includes all the soil the grass needs, making it a convenient option. Make sure the sod is level and firmly pressed into the soil. If you prefer, you can also choose to sow grass seed instead of laying sod. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the seeding rate and use a spreader for even dispersal.
Step 6: Water and Care for Your Grass
Keep the soil moist while the grass establishes its roots. Water regularly, especially if the soil around the roots starts to dry out. Aerate, fertilize, and overseed the grass on a seasonal basis, just as you would for any lawn. Make sure to use aeration tools that are set to the proper height to avoid damaging the concrete.
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Use artificial turf
If you're looking to refresh the look of your concrete patio, artificial turf is a great option. Not only does it look good, but it's also safer and more durable than concrete. Here's a step-by-step guide to installing artificial turf on your concrete patio:
Step 1: Measurements
First, you'll need to measure the area of your concrete patio to determine how much artificial turf you'll need. It's a good idea to purchase slightly more turf than you think you need to allow for any mistakes or unexpected issues. You'll also need to measure the perimeter of the concrete area to figure out how much turf adhesive is required.
Step 2: Prepare the Concrete
Before installing the artificial turf, it's crucial to prepare the concrete base. Start by fixing any minor cracks in the concrete with a self-levelling compound. If you have weeds growing through the concrete, use a weed killer to get rid of them. Next, give the concrete a thorough clean using a hose or broom to remove any dirt and debris. Let the concrete dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 3: Improve Drainage
Concrete surfaces are prone to drainage issues, which can lead to mould and mildew problems. To check the drainage of your concrete, simply turn on a hose and soak the concrete. If water pools in certain areas, you'll need to drill holes to improve drainage. Use a drill with a 16mm bit to make holes in problem areas, and fill the gaps with 10mm shingle, or "pea shingle".
Step 4: Unroll the Turf
Now it's time to unroll your artificial turf and let it settle in the sun for 30 to 60 minutes to remove any creases. This will help ensure that your turf lies flat and even once installed.
Step 5: Trim and Secure the Turf
To trim the turf to size, cut it from the back, being careful not to cut through the stitches. If you need to join multiple pieces of turf, trim three stitches from the edge of each piece, push them together, and apply tape along the underside of the seam to create an invisible joint. Once your turf is trimmed and any joints are secured, fold back the edges and apply glue to the entire perimeter to secure the turf to the concrete.
Step 6: Apply Infill
Artificial turf infill offers several benefits, including improved footing, increased durability, reduced heat absorption, and a better overall appearance. Spread the infill manually or with a drop spreader, and use a power broom or rake to even it out.
By following these steps, you'll be able to transform your concrete patio into a lush, green space that will last for years with minimal maintenance. Enjoy your new and improved outdoor area!
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Treat the concrete like a green roof, using a growing medium designed for turf
To grow grass on a concrete patio, you can treat the concrete like a green roof by installing a growing medium designed for turf. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Understand the Concept of a Green Roof
A green roof is an innovative way to introduce greenery to otherwise barren spaces. It involves creating a vegetative cover on a roof, mimicking a traditional garden but adapted to the unique conditions of a rooftop setting. Green roofs offer insulation, improve air quality, and provide a habitat for wildlife.
Step 2: Choose the Right Growing Medium
The growing medium, also known as the substrate, is a crucial component of your green roof. It is a mixture of organic and inorganic materials, designed to provide essential nutrients, moisture retention, and support for plant growth. When choosing a growing medium for turf, opt for a specially formulated blend suitable for grass. This blend should be lightweight and designed for good drainage while also retaining enough water to support grass growth.
Step 3: Prepare the Concrete Patio
Before installing the growing medium, ensure your concrete patio is properly prepared. Clean the surface, removing any debris or obstacles. If there are any cracks or imperfections, repair them to create a smooth and even base.
Step 4: Install the Growing Medium
Spread the growing medium evenly across the concrete patio, following the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended depth. Make sure the growing medium is level and compacted to provide a stable base for the turf.
Step 5: Plant the Turf
Once the growing medium is in place, you can proceed to plant your turf. Follow the recommendations provided by the manufacturer of the growing medium regarding the type of turf or grass seeds that are most compatible. Ensure proper care and maintenance, including regular watering, to establish a healthy lawn.
Step 6: Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your green roof thriving. Monitor moisture levels, especially during dry spells, and water accordingly. Keep an eye out for weeds and remove them promptly to prevent competition with your turf for nutrients and water. With proper care, your concrete patio will soon be transformed into a lush and vibrant lawn.
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Frequently asked questions
You need at least 10 cm of topsoil under turf, and drainage. The recommended minimum is 15 cm. You'll then need gravel or something similar underneath that for drainage.
You can use a product like SuperSod, which is a mat of jute and hemp with a layer of grass seed inside. You roll it out over prepared and levelled soil, cover it with mulch or an amendment, and water it frequently. In a couple of weeks, the seed will germinate and you'll have a lawn.
If you don't want to remove the concrete, you could use artificial turf. The newer varieties are far more realistic than older versions and don't produce an undesirable odour.
Grass growing on concrete may struggle with drainage and could die during a drought.