How to Build a Path in the Garden Using Sand

Building a path in the garden or yard using sand gives the garden or yard a tropical-beachy look, especially if you use a soft sand, like the sand found on Florida beaches. The base of the sand path needs to be prepared properly, so the sand does not sink into the ground easily. Sand paths should also be resanded each year or as needed to keep the sand above the gravel and soft on the feet.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Shovel
• Gravel
• Sand
• Plastic or rubber edging
• Marking paint
• Plastic or weed block

1. Mark the grass with the marking paint where you want the path. Mark both sides of the path---you will use these lines as a guide to dig out the path.

2. Dig the path to a depth of 4 inches. Line the sides of the path with the plastic or rubber edging. Line the bottom of the path with plastic or weed block-available at most big-box home and garden stores.

3. Line the path with 3 inches of ¼-inch gravel. Pack the gravel down by walking over it or driving a lawn tractor over it. You can also pack the gravel by hitting it with the end of a 2-by 4-inch board.

4. Add additional gravel so the total amount of gravel measures 3 inches. Pack the gravel once again.

5. Pour ¼ inch of sand over the top of the gravel. Pack the sand into the gravel. Repeat until the sand layers are level with the top of the grass. Once the sand levels are level with the rest of the garden or lawn, wet the sand down using the "shower" function on a multifunction hose. Pack the sand once more. Add more sand if needed to bring the level of the sand level with the ground.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a paver border to the sides of the path to help keep the sand contained.