| I would like to know can I grow a lawn from seed if my back yard has hard dirt? I rototilled the dirt and threw some grass seed out there. I would like the end up with a nice green plush lawn. Thanks |
| A healthy, lush lawn needs good, fertile soil. Your hard soil is probably clay. Clay soil is generally high in nutrients, but compacts to form an impenetrable surface, and it often remains soggy during wet spells and dries to a hard, cracked surface. Few plants can survive in such soil. The addition of organic matter improves heavy clay soils so your plan of action really depends on how much you want to spend. You could have the entire area tilled up, adding lots of compost and manure. Or, you could spread a layer of topsoil/compost over the entire lawn, and reseed. These are all quite expensive options. You might also try spreading a thin layer of compost over the entire lawn, let the existing grass sprout up through it, and reseed bare spots. If you can continue this practice over several years, you may be able to build up the organic matter in the soil sufficiently to support a lawn, without a huge capital investment. If you can aerate the lawn before spreading the compost, using either a hand-held (or shoe-mounted) device, or rent a gas-powered machine, you'll go a long way toward providing a better soil environment. While it sounds labor-intensive, it's the best way to end up with a lush, thick lawn. Best wishes with your project! |
