Ballast, cinders, turf, ground foam, talus, and rock materials for creating realistic ground textures on your model railroad. Ballast is the crushed stone that lines the trackbed, and choosing the right color and grade is essential for a convincing look. Ground foam and turf simulate grass, dirt, and underbrush in various colors and textures, while talus and rock debris add natural scatter along cuts, fills, and hillsides. Materials are available in fine, medium, and coarse grades to match different scales. Brands include Woodland Scenics, Arizona Rock & Mineral, and Scenic Express.
