How Much Top Soil is Needed to Plant Grass Seeds?

Lay down top soil before sowing grass seed.

Top soil is an essential part of the grass seeding process. It is used to provide a nutrient-rich base for the seed, smooth out the planting surface and help the seed sprout faster.

Considerations

Spread topsoil over the planting area to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Spray it with water until moist to settle it down and remove air pockets. Rake the soil to loosen it back up, then plant grass seeds.

Prevention/Solution

Topsoil is useful to prevent pooling or washing away of grass seeds. Spread it in low-lying areas or dips in the yard. This will keep the seed in place and create a level planting surface. Spread just enough to fill the area and rake it until smooth.

Warning

Grass seed needs direct contact with soil to germinate. It does best when it is mixed with the very top layer of soil. After dispersing it, drag the back of a metal rake over the yard to bury the seed with the top 1/4 to 1/8 inch of top soil. Not doing so may slow down germination and expose the seeds to birds, who will carry them away.

References

• The Garden Helper: How to Plant, Grow and Care for a New Lawn
• Bloomin Garden Centre: Lawn Seeding Care
• The Garden Counselor Lawn Care: Planting Grass: How To Make It Worth The Trouble