How to Apply Compost to a Grass Lawn

One of the most important tasks in maintaining a green, healthy lawn is supplying the roots with the proper nutrients. While commercial fertilizers are one way to provide adequate nutrition to grass, there are organic options as well. Instead of applying fertilizer, you can apply compost in a process called "top dressing." The compost falls down to the soil line and decomposes near the grass roots. When applying compost, follow the proper method to avoid damaging the grass blades.

Lawn mower with grass catcher
Rake (optional)
Wheelbarrow
Top soil
Course builder's sand
Aged, sterile compost
Shovel
Stiff-bristled broom

Instructions

- 1
  Wait until the fall to apply compost if you have a cool-season grass. If you have a warm-season grass, wait until the early spring to apply compost.
- 2
  Attach a grass catcher onto a lawn mower and mow the lawn to a height of no more than 1 inch tall. If you do not have a grass catcher, rake up all of the grass clippings after mowing.
- 3
  Fill a wheelbarrow with a mixture of one part top soil, one part course sand and one part compost. Mix the ingredients up with a shovel until well combined. Break up any clumps with the shovel so the mixture has an even texture.
- 4
  Sprinkle the mixture onto the surface of the lawn using a shovel and making it only 1/4- to 1/2-inch thick. Don't worry if the compost mixture sits on top of the grass blades.
- 5
  Spread the compost mixture out evenly by pushing a stiff-bristled push broom lightly over the surface of the soil. Use back and forth motions until the compost mixture sinks down into the blades and is no longer visible on top of the lawn.
- 6
  Repeat the application of compost once every two to three years.

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