What Is Good to Put on Your Dirt So Your Grass Can Grow?

Topsoil

• Grass grows best in deep soil. Throwing some topsoil over the existing bed causes the grass's roots to grow shallowly, residing only in the topsoil. The topsoil layer needs to be at least 6 inches deep -- 8 inches is even better -- to avoid shallow-rooted grass that requires more frequent watering and fertilization. Purchase the topsoil from a reputable supplier. Mix half of it into the existing soil and lay the other half on top. You need 19 cubic yards to spread a 6-inch layer of topsoil over a 1,000-square-foot area.

Lime

• Lime supplies the soil with calcium and magnesium and raises the pH. Have your soil's pH tested before purchasing and applying lime to the soil. Too much lime can be as detrimental to the lawn as too little by causing microelement deficiencies. Spread ground dolomitic limestone, at the rate suggested by the soil test results, over the topsoil before adding organic amendments so that it lies in the upper 4 to 6 inches of soil.

Organic Matter

• Organic matter includes compost, wood chips and peat moss, among other items. It improves drainage and feeds beneficial organisms in the soil. Use 2 to 3 cubic yards of organic material per 1,000 square feet of seed bed and mix it with the top 6 inches of soil. Organic matter, while beneficial to the soil, is not a replacement for fertilizer.

Fertilizer

• Fertilizer is the final ingredient added to the soil before planting the seed and after grading. The results of the soil test should determine what type of fertilizer the soil requires. A general rule of thumb is to apply 5-10-10 at no more than 1 lb. of nitrogen and 1 lb. of phosphorous per 1,000 square feet of seed bed. Use a rake to lightly scratch the fertilizer into the top 2 to 4 inches of soil.