soil preparation

[adcoleman]

I am cutting out the existing sod in my yard (3500 sq. ft) and bringing in 4" of topsoil (sandy loam and chicken compost) throughout. I am wondering if I need to till the topsoil into the exsisting soil? or just spread out the topsoil, roll and rake. The soil that is there is not bad, I just want to make sure that the grass has good quality soil. Also is there a good formula for figuring how much topsoil I need for 4" deep over 3500 sq. ft. of yard? I am planning on doing hydroseeding, I am up in Oak Harbor, WA (northwest part of the state). Are there any tips that anyone has for this area with hydroseeding or grass in general? Thanks.

Adam Coleman

[rye]

one cubic yard of soil covers 81 sq. ft. 4" deep. So to cover your 3500 sq. ft. you will need 43 cubic yards. If it is sold by the ton, you need to ask how much one yard of that particular soil wieghs, i guess it would weigh one to 1.5 tons per yard. so 43 to 65 tons of soil will be needed

[Stonehenge]

Moved to homeowner forum

[Uncle Albert]

:chef: In my oppinion Hydro-seed is out unless you have unmanagable slopes. Nothing like old-fashion soil contact with an aerator!! As far as top soil .... organics make up a good cosistent soil. this alows moisture to be held ..much like peat-moss. no nutrient factor this is all added from a bag .. if you like.. 1cubic yard is 100sq at 2-3 inch . If you have a structured soil dont sweat this , more important is seed at three times recommended rates { seed co made these rates up} if your lawn is new and planted in the Fall. its all about viable seed and germination rates .. give this a shot with a good 18-24-12 starter fertilizer.. and plenty of moist soil .... BAM !! in 7-10- days LAWN...