The best base for a putting green

Why the base matters above everything

A putting green is not like garden grass. It needs to roll consistently and responsively — and that places very specific demands on the base. It must be compact, drain well and not yield under the ball. Soft soil, loose sand and concrete all give very different — and sub-optimal — ball roll response.

Our recommendation: compacted fine grit

We recommend 8–12 cm of compacted fine grit (0–8 mm) as the load-bearing layer, finished with 2–3 cm of finely screeded grit (0–4 mm). This gives a firm, drainable base with the right resistance for a good, consistent roll.

Avoid: soft sandy soil (it settles), compacted earth alone (cracks in frost) and flagstones/concrete (too hard, inconsistent, no drainage).

Contours and holes

Greens with slopes and hollows increase the challenge and enjoyment significantly. Slopes are formed from compacted grit or lightly stabilised soil — but they MUST be properly compacted, otherwise they settle and the turf bulges and undulates.

Flag pins and cups are dug in and fitted before the turf is laid — not afterwards.

Size and realistic expectations

A functional private putting green starts from around 12–15 m². Under 10 m² becomes very limited. The sweet spot for private gardens is 20–40 m² — enough room for contours, two or three holes and a few metres of fringe around the edge.

Realistic price indication including base and installation: from approximately DKK 12,000–15,000 for a 20 m² green. Call us for a precise assessment of your specific project.