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Bringing in Topsoil on top of brown clay


Question
QUESTION: I was curious if it would be worth the money to bring in topsoil for my land. I have have about 1 acre of land. I have been told that there is no need to bring topsoil in, Then others tell me to bring it in. If there is no need to bring it in is there some thing that I could put on the brown clay to help grow and keep green. The people that did not bring topsoil in have a hard time keeping green I do not know if that is because of lack of watering. Any information to help with the start of this lawn it would be appreciated. I want to do it right the first time.

ANSWER: Hi Corey, I don't think it's necessary. I'd rent a core aerator to loosen your existing soil.  This gadget, about the size of a tiller, pulls a plug of soil out and in the process, drives some grass foliage into the soil. The removed soil plugs fall to the surface where this loosened soil settles back into the holes. Then I'd check your pH.  Proper pH levels are critical for good turf production. Aim for 6.5. Then go see your local nurseryman and let him show you how to maintain a lawn through proper mowing, fertilizing and weed control based on the type grass you are growing. Jim

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QUESTION: Hello

what do you think about that liquid airefy I think I spelt that correctly. I was told that would help loosen up soil as well, If that would help would I put that on before I put the seeds on or would I put on after seeds. Also how do you test your pH levels. Thanks for the help

Answer
I'm not familiar with the product you've mentioned, but I suspect it's sodium laureth sulfate (or a similar product). It's a surfactant (detergent) used in cheap shampoos that, in theory, separates clay particles and improves drainage.  I've tried some of these products in the past and did not see significant results. Physical aeration and incorporating organic matter is a better (not easier) solution. Jim

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