Spring is a great time to plan and execute projects around the home and yard. Many homeowners choose this time to build stone walls, remove problem trees, build patios, and even add-in a pool. With all the projects going on, the lawn is bound to sustain some damage while large trucks and foot traffic move in and out. Spring is an important time for grass to grow and make sure it becomes established for summer. With spring on the way, our article this week will be on how to repair lawns after construction.
How to Repair Lawns After Construction
The first thing you will want to do before starting any restoration is to evaluate the damage. Have your soil tested and look around for any debris leftover. Make sure the debris is picked up so that it does not inhibit root growth or lead to bald patches when the lawn does grow back. Spread 6 to 8 inches of topsoil. This is especially important in spots where there are tire ruts and digging has occurred. You’ll also want to spread a high phosphorus type of fertilizer to encourage root growth.
A common thing that will happen to lawns when construction is going is that the soil will become impacted. This makes it very difficult for roots to get air and water. To see if your lawn is impacted, stick a screwdriver into the dirt. If it doesn’t slide in easily in the first 6 inches, your lawn is definitely compacted. The best way to remedy this is to rent or purchase a core aerator. After the aeration is complete, you’ll want to spread a half-inch of compost on the lawn. If you do not have compost, you can usually pick it up at a recycling center. Be cautious when aerating in the spring as it does encourage the growth of crabgrass.
After getting the soil healthy again, you’ll want to reseed the lawn. This is best done with a grass seed the establishes quickly such as perennial ryegrass. Cover the new seed with 1/8 inch of topsoil, then water the seeds every other day until they become established. After they become fully established, you can reduce the watering schedule to every other day depending on the weather. When your lawn does reestablish itself, try to keep foot traffic to a minimum. You will also not want to mow your lawn for 2 months after the lawn has established itself.
Check out our products page for all of your spring landscape project needs!
Valley Green Inc. Corporate Headquarters
642 S. Summer Street
Holyoke, MA 01040
Phone 413.533.0726
Toll Free 800.862.0089
Fax 413.533.0792
Warehouse Fax 413.533.4090