The Grass Doctor

Where and how should I begin with my back yard? (Removing weeds/sand, planting grass)?

I have a 3200 sq. foot back yard (maybe a little more). I have some grass in the back yard mixed with weeds and sand and stumps left over from when I had trees removed. I want to fix it so that its a nice yard with a nice looking lawn. The guy that cuts the back says all I need is about 50 lbs of grass seed and some lime and fertilizer who can do the work for me. I want it done right and I am not knowledgeable in this area at all. He works for a landscaper full time. Im afraid to call one of the commercial well-known companies for a price cause i dont want them hounding me like an old salesman working at a car lot. Anyone have any suggestions?

Public Comments

1. If you want all grass, contact some outfits that sell sod. They will be able to give you a quote to clean up, level and install sod - or at least recommend someone who can do the work. It would be better than trying to seed the entire area already infested with weeds. You may even consider a sprinkler system for your new lawn.
2. let's try to help you become a little more knowledgable in this area then. get rid of the stumps, weeds, and sand. You need to start with good loam or you will be back here in a few years asking the same questions and spending the same money. Spend the money to have someone clean up the current mess and bring in or ammend your soil so you start off on the right foot. A good quality loam is just the right mix of organics, sand and other fine particles. It has the abilitly to hold moisture as well as drain it reasonably well. Spreading Lime? why? Don't spread lime if you don't have too. It is for neutralizing acidic soils. It will raise the PH of your soil. ( if you have to then fine, but this is usually determined by a soil test ) Never let someone tell you what you need to add to your lawn unless they can tell you what the ph is of your current soil. They could be adding the wrong thing. Are you in a warm climate or cool climate? Some reading for you. best of luck with your yard.
3. If you're looking to save some money, you can do it yourself. It's not that difficult, it just takes some time, a little bit of work and patience. Your two choices are to lay sod or plant grass seeds. Laying sod will give you an instant lawn, but it'll cost you a pretty penny. If you want to save money and have the patience to wait for new grass to grow, then plant grass seeds. Here's how to get started: How to Lay Sod: http://www.tigerfdn.com/how-to-lay-sod-step-by-step-instructions-part-1 Planting Grass Seed: Step-by-Step Instructions: http://www.tigerfdn.com/planting-grass-seed-step-by-step-instructions-part-1