Loam or Compost for Lawn Seed

New Lawn

• When preparing the soil for a new lawn, particularly at a newly constructed home, remove any rocks or debris and grade the soil so it slopes from the house at a drop of 1 to 2 feet per 100 feet. This grading process ensures good drainage around the home's foundation. Till the soil to a depth of 6 inches, incorporating 2 to 3 inches of compost into the soil. The compost improves drainage, and over time, creates a loamy soil. If the topsoil is gone, haul in new loamy topsoil and add compost to it.

Lawn Renovation

• When filling in bare spots in the lawn, add 2 inches of compost and dig it lightly into the soil, raking until smooth. The compost will lighten the soil and add a slow-release form of nitrogen, which encourages strong, healthy grass growth.

Planting Seed

• Once the soil is prepared, spread the seed with a drop or rotary spreader, applying only the amount recommended on the package. Applying too much seed can cause a dense lawn prone to disease. To fill small, bare areas, mix the grass seed at a rate of one part seed to three parts loam soil. Spread the mixture over the bare spots. Rake to lightly cover the grass seed with soil.

Top Dressing

• Once the lawn seed is vigorously growing, top dress it annually with 1/2 inch of compost. Rake the lawn to remove thatch and leaves, and mow it to a height of 1 inch. Apply the compost in the fall or early spring, smoothing it out with a rake. The compost slowly works into the soil, improving drainage and providing nutrients.