Sand Topdressing: Benefits, Compost Blends, and Compost Tea Reality

A compost producer asks about sand topdressing benefits, ideal compost-sand ratios for golf course and home markets, and compost tea efficacy.

Why Apply Sand?

Primarily for leveling uneven turf and improving drainage. Golf course greens/tees use high-sand mixes (USGA specs). For home lawns, a 50/50 to 70/30 sand/compost blend works well for leveling and drainage improvement.

Business Reality

Handling and trucking sand is expensive. Profitability depends on USGA/PGA contacts and approvals. Most compost producers sell bulk compost to course superintendents rather than blending themselves.

Compost Tea: Overrated

High-nitrogen or unstable teas smell bad and lose customers. Benefits are inconsistent. Focus on quality solid compost applications instead.