Soil & Installation6 min readBy NCR Grass ·
Most lawn problems start under the grass. Here is how to clear weeds, loosen and improve the soil, level the ground and let it settle before laying turf.
A lawn is only as good as the soil under it
When a lawn goes patchy, the grass often gets the blame, but the cause is usually the ground. Turf rolls arrive with only a thin layer of soil. To survive, roots must quickly grow into the soil below. If it is rock-hard, full of rubble or lacks organic matter, the roots stay shallow and the grass struggles in the first heatwave.
Time spent on the ground before laying pays off in a lawn that roots deeper, needs less water and resists weeds.
Clear perennial weeds, especially motha
The worst weed in North Indian lawns is nutgrass, locally motha (Cyperus rotundus). It spreads by underground tubers that survive dry soil for a long time. If you only cut the leaves and lay grass over it, motha will push through the new turf.
- Water the bare ground first so weeds and tubers sprout.
- Dig out the tubers by hand, or treat the green growth with a suitable herbicide as the label directs, and wait for it to die back.
- Rake out dead roots and tubers before laying grass.
Improve the soil
Soil in Delhi NCR tends toward heavy clay or loose silt. The aim is a crumbly, well-draining root zone in the top 4 to 6 inches.
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Coarse sand (badarpur) | Opens up clay so water drains and roots can grow |
| Well-rotted gobar khad (manure) | Adds organic matter and slow-release nutrients |
| Vermicompost | Adds organic matter and supports root growth |
| Neem cake (neem khali) | Helps deter soil pests such as white grubs |
Level, water and let it settle
Once the soil is mixed in, level the ground with a gentle fall away from buildings so rainwater drains off.
Water the prepared ground a day or two before laying so loose soil settles. If you skip this, dips can appear once you start watering the new grass.
When the surface is workable and crumbly, smooth it with a leveller and the ground is ready for grass.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use fresh cow dung?
- No. Fresh dung heats up as it breaks down, can burn roots and carries weed seeds. Use fully rotted, dark and odourless gobar khad.
How deep should the soil be loosened before laying grass?
- At least about 6 inches. Larger or heavily used lawns benefit from going deeper.
Can NCR Grass prepare the ground for me?
- Yes. Ground levelling and preparation is part of our service. Call or WhatsApp for a free site visit.
Questions about your own lawn?
Call or WhatsApp NCR Grass and the team can visit your site for free, check the ground and plan the lawn with you.
Where we supply: Ghaziabad · Noida · Delhi · All services
