Lime and Fertilizer

Lime is needed when using organic matter to enhance soil for a lawn. Lime is applied at two lbs. per 100 square ft., and then raked into the surface. The safest to use is ground lime or agricultural lime. It is difficult to spread evenly by hand, but can be made much simpler if you have a mechanical spreader. Lime spreads more easily if mixed several times its bulk with sand or soil. Two to three days later, apply a fertilizer.

Several brands are manufactured especially for lawns, but there is no need to get overwhelmed by the mass selection. Select one that is in general use in your own locality to optimize it\'s compatibility with your soil. Typically, most fertilizers are composed of 10-6-4, 6-10-4, and 8-6-4 mixtures. Often a general, all-purpose fertilizer like 5-10-5 will do. Use two lbs. per 100 square ft. and thoroughly mix it with the top three inches of the surface. It is necessary to get an even grade to the lawn.

All depressions and irregularities must be eliminated to ensure optimum soil performance. Depressions hold water; in winter grass is killed out; spots higher than the level dry out, or are shaved off by the mower together with the grass. A firm surface is needed to help the seed to sprout. Should the surface be uneven, roll it then rake and roll again. Give a final raking with an iron toothed rake to leave an inch of loose soil upon which to sow and cover the seed.

All depressions and irregularities must be eliminated to ensure optimum soil performance. Depressions hold water; in winter grass is killed out; spots higher than the level dry out, or are shaved off by the mower together with the grass.