How to Use a Lawn Roller

Common Lawn Roller - John Deere

A lawn roller is most commonly used to level the ground prior to the establishment of new turf. They can establish proper drainage patterns and increase the overall look of the land. After the sod is layed, a lawn roller is useful for pushing the grass roots into the soil and removing air pockets. A lawn roller will also do the same when seeding.

Things You'll Need

• A lawn roller
• A lawn
• water
• possibly fill dirt

Instructions

1. The first step is to obtain a lawn roller. They are usually available at yard and garden rental stores. You may also choose to purchase one at a local home store, such as Home Depot or Lowes.

2. There are two main styles of lawn roller. They are commonly available as manual or as attachments for garden tractors. A manual one will be less expensive, but will require more physical labor to use.

3. If you are planting a new lawn you will want to start by rolling and evening out the land with your lawn roller. Use fill dirt to fill in any holes or bare spots. Use this opportunity to direct the flow of water in the proper direction.

   After preparing the land and laying your sod or seeding, roll over it again. This will insure that the roots and/or seeds will set firmly into the ground.

4. After the Winter thaw, you may want to use a lawn roller to smooth out your lawn. A rolled lawn will look better and be easier to maintain.