it’s possible for you to also substitute it with coarse builders' sand.

Horticultural sand should improve the soil.

Another benefit of using it in the garden is that it’s non-clumping, unlike other sand types.

Horticultural sand being raked into potting mix

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

Since it won’t clump, the soil shouldn’t get compacted.

Also, consider horticultural sand as a good companion for clay soils.

Mix it with clay to improve drainage and avoid compaction and aeration problems.

Closeup overhead view showing horticultural sand texture and grit

The Spruce / Jacob Fox

It can also contain impurities like rocks, clay, or other debris.

What’s Mixed Into Horticultural Sand?

Horticultural grit and sharp sand are made from crushed rock like limestone or granite.

Builders' sand also comes from rock, but the supplier will unlikely know its origin.

It’s used in concrete mixes and some mortar mixes.

Mixing fine sand into your starter mix will turn it into cement.

It won’t drain well, creating the reverse of the desired effect.

It has a much larger and coarser grain than play sand, making it perfect for drainage.

Ensure the recipe includes something for drainage, such as perlite or vermiculite.

Perlite is a volcanic rock similar to pumice that holds air well, aiding drainage.

It should have an unobtrusive earthy smell.

Manysoilless seed starting mixesdon’t use horticultural sand, and drainage isn’t a problem.

So, if you’ve got the option to’t source it, substitute it.