Managing Spongy Bermuda Lawn on Sandy Soil

A spongy lawn that yields underfoot indicates a sandy or organic-rich soil that lacks mineral density. This is a soil physics issue, not a turf health problem.

Options

• Accept it: The grass is healthy; softness only affects aesthetics and mowing.
• Renovate: Kill existing turf, incorporate coarse sand (6–8 inches deep), recompact, and re-sod. Expensive and disruptive.
• Topdress annually: Apply ¼ inch coarse sand after core aeration to gradually increase firmness.

Key Point

Bermuda and Zoysia thrive in well-drained soils. The sponginess does not harm the grass. Most homeowners choose to live with it.