Question
Dear Lawn Expert,

I purchased a home that has a horrible (and large: over an acre) lawn - grass grows sparsely and from various seeding has sparse patches of different grass seeds.  The soil quality is also very poor (has a lot of rocks).  I plan on redoing the entire lawn this spring (huge project).  First question: (1) What is the best way?  I have been told to put 4 inches of topsoil down and roll on the ready-made rolls of grass and water.  Second question (2) If I proceed with this method, where can I purchase several truckloads of topsoil/soil for the least amount of money?  Third question (3) Where can I purchase the rolls of grass for the least amount of money?  Fourth question (4) How much should I expect for all of this?  And final question (5) The current lawn has some decomposed leaves on it (I have tried to rake as much as I can), can I just put the soil over it and proceed  

Answer
Hi Christine:
Before I can begin to help you I need more information:
1. Where are you located? If you are in the U.S. give me a Zip code.(I answer questions from many areas of the globe and need to determine the kind of grasses that are grown in your area).
2. Do you have lots of trees on your property? (Grass will never be able to do well in the shade).
3. Do you want an instant lawn with sod? (Expensive) or do you want to wait until this fall, which is the best time, and sow seed? (less expensive).
4. I will not be able to give you quotes on sod prices, top soil prices, or completed job prices or where to purchase these items.
I look forward to hearing from you. Floyd McMahon