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Leveling a Bumpy Lawn in Wisconsin: Till vs. Topdress

Two Approaches

Recommendation: Till

12 years of bumps on landfill soil = deep irregularities. Till 6–8 inches, amend with compost, regrade, roll, seed. One-time fix vs. annual band-aids.

Process

Kill existing vegetation (glyphosate or smother).
Till 6–8 inches.
Incorporate 2–3 inches compost.
Grade smooth, roll lightly.
Seed KBG/rye/fine fescue mix.
Roll again for seed contact.
Water 2× daily until germination.

Timing

Late August–mid September ideal in WI (Zone 4). Spring second choice.

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Rototill & Regrade	Topdress Only
Best consistency	Keeps existing grass
Kills all grass → reseed	Risk of unevenness
Fixes deep compaction	Less labor
Ideal for major bumps	Good for minor dips