Dry spotsLocalized dry spots on lawns can be treated with a soil surfactant. Also known as a “soil wetting agent”, it may also help to moisten the soil. Insufficient irrigation coverage is the main cause of dry spots. Another reason localized dry spots can occur is poor irrigation coverage. This promotes weak root development in your lawn. An environmental factor that could contribute to dry spots is double exposure of your lawn, such as the reflective roof on the north. In new developments, I’ve also witnessed chunks of cement mixed with sodded.
Soil CompactionThe soil compaction in houses constructed in the 20th century is higher because of heavy lifts, backhoes, and bulldozers. The cost of good soil has risen. New constructions require that the grass is graded. This means all soil must be removed and then it will be covered with 1 to 2 inches more soil. It is advisable to add compost every year and to aerate the lawn at least twice per year. Then, you can rake fine compost into any aeration holes. This will alter your soil profile over time. The majority of newly constructed homes require very little, if any, soil preparation.
Rototilling.A common mistake is to rototill existing lawns before trying to grade them. This is a huge mistake. It’s labor intensive. The result of rototilling is a messy mess full dirt, grass and clods. It takes hours to grade the new topsoil and you always have a piece of old grass on top.
You should also grade the sod as it will decompose, and you will have many bumps and dips when your new yard is established. You should first use the sod cutter, then the rototiller. You never know who buried what in rototilling, so be sure to leave a space where you can put any items that have been dug up.
Test your soil.A soil and plant lab is an important resource to use before spending a large amount of money for extensive soil rehabilitation. Harris Laboratories is a well-respected laboratory in Lincoln Nebraska. You can find out about their soil testing by calling:
- Organic material for your lawn
- cation exchange capability
- soil fertility
- The pH level
- a complete scientific readout.
It is your road map to the future of soils. This will give you an idea of the soil condition and make recommendations for changes that can be made to improve it. Call 1-800-424-5555 before starting any yard work. It usually takes a few days to complete this task. They may apply temporary paint to your sidewalk.
Evergreen and Grass Trees Lawngrasses can be killed by evergreen trees. High levels of acidity are found in the needles of these trees. Use a bagging mower to grow your grass beneath these trees. You should replant them four times each year with perennial Rye grass. You should water the trees regularly to prevent them from reducing natural rain. The tree can add value to your home, so it’s important that you don’t remove the tree on impulse. The trees also absorb the noise of nearby vehicles.
Lime Three types of lime are available: dolomite, calopril and gypsum. Gypsum can be used to dissolve clay and increase calcium, but it does not alter the soil pH. Dolomite is more expensive and contains extra magnesium. This is what most Western Washington lawns do not need. Calopril helps to regulate the soil’s pH. This allows grass to take advantage of all the nutrients.