New yard

[Fergie]

I am putting in a new yard in an area near my lake. In order to make the yard level, I have added a base of clay type dirt. Over this dirt, I have added a good grade of fill dirt. In some areas, the fill dirt is more than 6 inches deep. Now, I am ready to add the grass to the area.

My question is whether I should put a base of compost on the fill dirt before I put grass down. I plan to use St. Augustine grass.

Also, what other components do I need to put down (i.e. molasses, etc.)?

[sandih]

You may want to repost your question under the section called "Lawn Care"

[Nadine]

Adding about half an inch of good composted animal manure is a great idea. You can add it either before or after you lay the sod. It is also a good idea to water both sides of the sod before laying and rolling it. Then add compost in the "seams" between pieces of sod.