Till (to blend any new soil amendment)

• Remove any stones or debris
• Broadcast Lime at the rate of 50 lbs. per 1000 sq.ft.
• Diamond Pro Soil Conditioner may be added to entire soil surface.
• Organic soil amendment (typically called a 3-way or 4-way soil mixture) added to improve soil profile
• Blend to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.

Roll (for compaction)
Use a water roller, or heavy application of water through a sprinkler for compaction. The soil surface should be firm.

Finish Rake (for final grading)

• Grade soil surface where dirt and concrete meet (driveway, sidewalk, or patio) so that soil surface is 1/4 to 1/2 inch below concrete grade.
• Leave surface in raked or scarified condition (top1/4 to 1/2 inch should be loose)
• Remove any large clods or stones and rake to repair any grade problems.

Weed Eradication

It is important to note that mechanical weed eradication (tilling or other grading work) will not kill all weeds. A contact herbicide such as RoundupTM is a good choice for pre-plant weed control. Call for tips for post plant weed control.

Irrigation Systems

When back filling irrigation trenches, be sure to fill 3/4 of the trench with soil, then flood the trenches with water. Let the trench sit 1 day, then back-fill the balance of the trench, compact, and finish grade.

Tips and Tricks

• Creating tree or shrub circles in a lawn area requires lowering the soil surface by at least 2 inches in the desired shape. Place new bark in tree circles and bed areas before hydro seeding.
• Remember, rounded corners are easier and faster to mow and maintain. Create a no-mow area next to foundations and fences to reduce weekly edging or the need for “weed eater applications”.
• If you picture pushing or riding your lawn mower over your finished lawn prep, it will give you a good idea of how smooth the surface will be after the lawn comes in.