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Left over turf dust - any use in garden?

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  • 14-08-2012 9:46pm
    #1
    NIMAN
    Registered Users Posts: 33,607 ✭✭✭✭


    I have just brought in a load of turf, and have maybe 3 or 4 wheelbarrow loads of the dust leftovers. This was also out in heavy rain in the last few days, so has got a good soaking.

    I was wondering if it would be any use around the garden, rather than dumping it?


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    #2
    recedite
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,992 ✭✭✭✭recedite


    Its basically moss peat. So yes.


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    #3
    NIMAN
    Registered Users Posts: 33,607 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    I'm a real novice in the garde, could you advise on its use?

    In the process of digging out a rockery at present, could I mix it in with the topsoil thats there to pad it out?


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    #4
    recedite
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,992 ✭✭✭✭recedite


    Yes it will improve the soil; makes it "lighter".


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    #5
    NIMAN
    Registered Users Posts: 33,607 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    Do I need to make sure its really fine, break up any little lumps, or can I just mash it all up with a garden fork then mix it in?


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    #6
    recedite
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,992 ✭✭✭✭recedite


    Mash it in roughly, worms will do the rest.


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    #7
    NIMAN
    Registered Users Posts: 33,607 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    Can you have too much of this stuff in a rockery? I have more than I first thought, and was wondering should it only complement the top soil, or can it be 50/50 with top soil?


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    #8
    recedite
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,992 ✭✭✭✭recedite


    50;50 is fine, your soil will be tending towards acidic at that, but most rockery plants are heathers and alpines and prefer that anyway.


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    #9
    NIMAN
    Registered Users Posts: 33,607 ✭✭✭✭NIMAN


    You're a fountain of knowledge, thanks

    Edit: while I'm picking your brains, could you recommend a selection of plants for the rockery, should I ever get round to planting them! Preferably low maintenance ones, and best time of the year to plant them. My rockery is directly at the edge of my decking area, and I heard that a row of lavender may keep insects at bay (may not be true).


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    #10
    recedite
    Closed Accounts Posts: 13,992 ✭✭✭✭recedite


    Well you are better off just putting in a random selection, because some will die and others will spread. I like scented ones like lavender and curry plants. A few heathers and mini conifers eg (mungo pine) will keep it looking green in winter. Plants bought in pots can be planted at any time, but if you're digging them up from somewhere else, late autumn or spring is best. Good luck and enjoy.


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