How to prepare soil to grow grass after evergreen shrub removal - Ask Extension
Two years ago we cut down all of the old overgrown evergreen shrubs in front of our 1960's home. This last summer we dug out all of the roots. There...
Knowledgebase
How to prepare soil to grow grass after evergreen shrub removal #160862
Asked November 19, 2013, 3:33 PM EST
Two years ago we cut down all of the old overgrown evergreen shrubs in front of our 1960's home. This last summer we dug out all of the roots. There are now large bald spots where the shrubs and/or needles were where nothing will grow. I would like to plant grass in these areas, but I'd like to know how to prepare the soil. I am guessing that the pH is the reason nothing will grow. We live in West Washoe Valley and our soil is primarily decomposed granite.
Washoe County Nevada
Expert Response
With sandy or porous soils like DG it is best to blend in two to three inches of quality compost or aged manure. You can blend this into the area with a shovel or lightly rototill the material into the soil. This will help improve the soil fertility and create a larger area for moisture storage.
pH should not be an issue as most turf-grasses are very tolerant of slightly acidic soils. DG and sandy soils in Washoe Valley tend to be more towards the
When you go to start your new grass it will be critical that you test your sprinkler system for adequate coverage. If you are planning on using seed, the new seedlings will require frequent light watering's throughout the day. If you plan to use sod you will not need to water as often.
pH should not be an issue as most turf-grasses are very tolerant of slightly acidic soils. DG and sandy soils in Washoe Valley tend to be more towards the
When you go to start your new grass it will be critical that you test your sprinkler system for adequate coverage. If you are planning on using seed, the new seedlings will require frequent light watering's throughout the day. If you plan to use sod you will not need to water as often.