- 1). Collect a sample of the soil. Take soil from several locations and combine it in a pail. Pour a small sample into a sealed plastic baggie.
- 2). Send the sample to a cooperative extension or university laboratory for testing. They will look for nutrients that are necessary for grass growth including nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels. The pH will also be determined. 6.5 to 7.0 is ideal for grass, but different types of grass can grow in more acidic or alkaline soils.
- 3). Add ground rock sulfur if the soil is too alkaline. Apply 1.2 ounces per square yard in sandy soil, and 3.6 ounces per square yard in other soil types to reduce the pH by 1.0 point. Combine the amendments well. You can also use leaf mold, wood chips, saw dust, peat moss or composted leaves for similar results.
- 4). Raise the soil pH if it is too acidic. This often happens with clay-like soil. Apply 4 ounces of hydrated lime per square yard in sandy soil, 8 ounces for loamy soil, 12 ounces in slay and 25 ounces per square yard if you're working with peat.
- 5). Use organic materials to add nutrients to the soil. For better moisture-holding capacity in dry soil, mix in compost, manure or peat. To aerate wet soil, like clay, add fibrous materials such as sand, straw and composted wood chips.
- 6). Combine the amendments as deeply into the soil as possible. Use a rototiller if you can't do it with hand tools. The tiller will also loosen the soil, which is necessary for grass root growth and spread.
- 7). Apply a high-quality starter fertilizer. The blends contain slow-release granules which feeds the grass seed over time, further enhancing the depleted soil. Follow the instructions on the package for the rate to set the broadcast spreader.
- 8). Fill a mechanical or hand spreader with grass seed. Spread an average of 8 to 10 pounds per 1,000 square feet. There should also be a recommendation on the seed bag. Cut the amount in half and go over the same area twice. This ensures an evenly seeded lawn.
- 9). Rake the seed into the top 1/8 inch of soil to encourage germination. Water the yard at least twice a day for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Once you see sprouts, cut back and only water it for 15 to 30 minutes once daily.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -