FAQ’S - Fescue Overseeding - Earth Kind Services

Using a specialized spreader we apply an even layer of Organic compost 1/4” thick over the surface of the lawn. This is a very high quality product that has been composted for over 6 months, there is no bad odor or large pieces of wood mulch. You can watch videos of this process under our “Resources” tab.

Thicker options available, we can apply a double rate, about 1/2” layer. This will build healthier soil and microbes but won’t level the soil.

Summer Top Dressing with a soil mix will help with the leveling.

When should I top dress?

Winter can be a great time to top dress to allow time for the compost to activate into the soil undisturbed from mowing.

Spring & Fall are the optimum times of the year for top dressing, but you will see incredible results at any time of the year. Ideally, Top Dressing needs to be watered in one + times prior to mowing so it can settle down to the soil layer.

For our premium soil mixes we recommend having getting applied during the Summer months will the grass is actively growing.

What can I expect?

Results may vary due to turf & soil conditions. Generally, clients see their turf thicken & bare spots fill in. Results begin to appear in a few weeks after application. Gradually, compaction lessens & the soil may feel softer. Decrease watering by 30% or more. When we seed at the same time as top dressing, we usually have a good stand of grass in 3-4 weeks.

If lawn disease or TARR (Take All Root Rot) is present, we recommend that adding a biological soil inoculant to aid the grass recovery & a thicker layer (double pass) of compost.

A green circle with a hand in the middle of it.

Will I still need lawn fertilization?

Top Dressing will enhance any fertilization program as it contains & feeds the beneficial soil microbes that release nutrients in fertilizers. Some grass types need more nitrogen to keep green so it depends on your grass type. Typically Bermuda has a higher nitrogen need. Zoysia and St. Augustine typically have lower nitrogen requirements.

Optional Annual Soil Feeding & Fertilizing Program:

1 Lawn Top Dressing with Compost

4 Organic Lawn Fertilizations (Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall)

Should I aerate my lawn prior to top dressing?

How do I schedule & pay for services?

What are the benefits of top dressing?

Compost improves the structure & texture of the soil enabling it to retain more nutrients, moisture, & air for stronger, healthier plants. Organic matter feeds the beneficial soil microbes, vital for a positively diverse soil environment. This helps to control diseases & pest insects that might otherwise overrun a more sterile soil lacking natural checks against their spread. Compost is very cost effective, reducing costs of sod & plant replacements, using less water, reducing use of herbicides, pesticides, & fertilizers. Rich soil grow beautiful lawns, trees, plants.

Pet & Kid friendly too!

How do I deal with top dressing after heavy rains?

If there is a heavy rain event after the application please contact us. Most of the time compost stays in place, except for: slopes, bare areas, & areas where water drains from down spouts, etc.

In this event, we can come out & reapply as needed for a nominal fee, waiving our usual minimum pricing.

Weather events are beyond anyone’s control and we still want our clients to get value for their money.

How should I prepare for a top dressing service?

You do not need to be home at time of service. Top Dressing works best with a recently mowed lawn or please clean up leaves before we come.

Please turn off sprinklers the day before we come and turn them back on after we leave. For best results, compost needs to be watered in especially in warmer months.

For back yard access please have the gates unlocked, a minimum of 36” gate to get our top dressing machines through.

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