When is a good time to add a layer of top soil to an existing lawn?

Question

Hi all. I just recently purchased my first home and have noticed that the lawn has low spots in both the front and back yards. I would like to add a layer of top soil to sort of smooth things out a bit. However, with it being September already, am I too late? What is the best time to add a layer of good topsoil? I know the previous owners of this house did not take care of the lawn so I am prepared (mentally) to rehabillitate this lawn.

Answer 1

Early fall and spring are about the only times you want to be planting or filling low spots. Also depends on the area you live. Do some research or check with a local nursery.

Answer 2

If you are filling in low spots that are taller than the grass its time to do it. Use a SANDY loam so you will have good drainage. One you get it leveled and tamped down (rolled) cover it with some fine compost and rake it in. Then reseed it.
Get it going if you will have cold winter. A few weeks of new growth will do the job.

Or you can slowly rake down thin layers that do not cover the grass completely. Just keep adding thin layers are the grass grows. Just use some sand, or compost.

Perhaps you should aerater the soil firsts. Easy to do with a spading fork. Or one of those machines. Then smooth the sand into the holes.

Do not expect instant success. It may take a year or two for the lawn to look really good. Don't use those fast green grasses, they will only cause problems in the future.

OR, you could just give up on "lawn" and plant a real ornamentyal garden of annuals and perennial beds. Grass is so overrated.

Answer 3

Adding Soil To Lawn

Answer 4

You can always add sand to the low spots. The grass will grow through the sand and your mower will ride atop the sand making low spots unnoticeable.

Answer 5

Any organic matter you add will help. If you can get a large amount, rotted manure is very effective. You can use the topsoil to level out low spots, and spread manure everywhere.

Answer 6

spring.............mix the seed and starter fertilizer in with the soil so its not all on top.you want to grow grass not feed the birds.