How to Prepare for Turf on Clay Soil

How to Prepare for Turf on Clay Soil

• 1

  Till the soil. Using a rototiller or lawn tractor may be the most efficient option for large areas, but avoid working in wet conditions. Driving or walking on wet clay will further compact the soil.

• 2

  Identify a source of organic matter. Organic matter, such as compost and rotted manure, will improve your turf success by encouraging biological activity and giving the soil a looser, more porous structure. Plan for enough material to cover the entire area approximately 1 inch deep.

• 3

  Inspect the organic matter. Any compost used in turf areas should have a fine texture. This will provide a better growing medium for grass seedlings. Compost should be free of twigs, leaves and other identifiable vegetation. Particles should be less than 1/2 inch in size.

• 4

  Test the soil. This will tell you whether you need to add other amendments in order to correct pH and other nutrient deficiencies. Testing your compost is also a good idea. If your compost is high in available nitrogen, you will need less of it.

• 5

  Spread the organic matter. Apply the material 1/2 to 1 inch deep. Make sure to apply it evenly to prevent low spots later on.

• 6

  Till the organic matter into the soil. Work the material into the soil approximately 6 inches deep.