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Under Trying Conditions

18 years ago

Dear Trey,

I live in Northwestern Wisconsin (near the Minneosta boarder) and my soil is pure sand. The sand is course and drains very quickly and has (I assume) limited nutrients. I have several large oaks that provide variable amounts of shade-but my lawn is always turning brown. We water extensively, but the minute we quit, it browns. I am ignorant of the types of grass that can be effectively grown under such conditions. Do any exist? Are there any suggestions you have concerning building a healthy lawn? Do I need to specifically focus on thatch, watering, rooting, reseeding, cutting, or any other processes?

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thank you very much-

Nathan

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Comments (3)

yarddoctor
18 years ago
Dear Nathan,

Thank you very much for your inquiry. In your area and situation (soil type and shade), I would seed with exclusively fine fescues (Creeping red fescue, sheep fescue, hair fescue). I would mix them and plant them at a rate of 2lbs/1000 ft2. You can plant anytime this summer as long as there is a water source. Make sure and use a starter fertilizer at time of seeding, 30 days and 60 days after seeding. This will ensure good growth.

As for the soil, sight unseen, I would suggest you consider amending the soil with compost. You can till into the soil (before the seeding) which would be the best, or to sites already established, topdress the compost over the top of the existing grass (0.25 inch increments, do not smother grass).

Again, thanks for the question and let me know if you have more.

Respectfully

Trey Rogers, The Briggs & Stratton Yard Doctor, YardDoctor.com
ich_bin_nathan
Original Author
18 years ago
Dear Mr. Rogers,

Thank you for your input-that helps.

Just two more quick questions-
Adding compost to lawns is always suggested, but is there a realistic way to get enough compost to do an entire yard? Most of (the little) compost I have is used on my garden (roses delphiniums, peonys) Where can I find organic matter in such bulk? Any suggestions?

And considering sandy soils loose their nutrients so quickly, how often should I, and with what recommended product, fertilize?

Thanks so much for your help
Nathan
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yarddoctor
18 years ago
Dear Nathan

Thank you very much for your inquiry. I would start at a local lawn and garden center. Tell them you are looking to buy tons, not lbs. They may direct you to a large operation. A large farm can sometimes be a good bet. Or ask the largest landscaper in town, they will have a source.

For my money, I like fertilizer products that contain a nitrogen carrier, polyon. Plan on monthly applications May Â October and go from there.

Again, thanks for the question and let me know if you have more.

Respectfully

Trey Rogers, The Briggs & Stratton Yard Doctor, YardDoctor.com

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