Compost Topdressing

 

Topdressing is the application of 1/8”-1/4” of compost to the turf areas.  There are many benefits to compost topdressing of your lawn.  Topdressing with quality compost:

  • Improves the structure of the soil.  A well-structured soil will better retain water & nutrients, along with improving the porosity, which improves gas exchange.
  • Stimulates the microbial activity in the soil, which helps to break down the thatch layer.
  • Adds organic matter to the root zone of the turf.  The organic matter and increased porosity of the soil allows the landscape to better absorb water, which reduces runoff.
  • Provides nutrients in a slow release form to the soil reducing the number of fertilizer treatments needed during the season.
  • Creates a healthier, less stressed stand of turf.  Less stress means fewer pest problems.

Most lawns can benefit from a topdressing application with high quality compost.  Lawns that should be considered as serious candidates for topdressing include:

  • New homes with little or no topsoil.
  • Sites with extreme compaction.
  • Sites with irrigation or rainwater runoff.
  • Sites with thin areas of turf and/or areas that are hard to get established.
  • Sites that are under added stress.

Topdressing is best done in the Spring (March-Early May) or Fall (Mid-August-October).
Topdressing should be done once a year.

The steps for proper topdressing include:

  1. Mow lawn at 2”-2.5” prior to topdressing.
  2. Core aerate the lawn.
  3. Spread 1/8”-1/4” quality compost over the entire turf area.
  4. Apply a quality grass seed suited for the site.
  5. Sweep compost & seed into the lawn.

We use compost from a local supplier to support the local economy.

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