Knowledgebase

acidic soil #935886

Asked June 17, 2026, 2:45 PM EDT

We recently had a huge spruce tree removed from our front yard. We suspect the pine needles (so many pine needles!) making the soil acidic was one reasons we've been unable to grow grass in our yard (that and I won't use herbicides, pesticides, or fertilizers). Is there something we can do to the soil now to make growing grass more likely? or to make it less acidic?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Afternoon, 

Thanks for your question. 

Before you decide the soil may be acidic, I would highly recommend doing a soil test on the area. It may not be as acidic as you think. Here is a link with detailed instructions on how to submit a soil test to the U of M Soil testing lab: https://extension.umn.edu/managing-soil-and-nutrients/soil-testing-lawns-and-gardens  Depending on how recently the tree was removed, or if it was dead, the roots of the tree remain under your soil. 50% of the trees roots are within 1 foot of the top of the soil. 

Here is another link that discusses soil acidity and amendments to correct it: https://extension.umn.edu/nutrient-management-specialty-crops/correct-too-much-compost-and-manure 

A soil test will also tell you how much of your soil contains organic matter. 

If you are intending to plant a Kentucky Bluegrass lawn, here is another link: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/lawn-care-calendar

You might consider using fine fescue seed: https://extension.umn.edu/lawns-and-landscapes/planting-and-maintaining-fine-fescue-lawn

Here is another link about seeding lawns: https://extension.umn.edu/lawn-care/seeding-and-sodding-home-lawns

Good Luck!


Maureen Graber Replied June 17, 2026, 4:18 PM EDT

Loading ...