Topdressing

What Is Topdressing a Lawn?

Topdressing is the application of a thin layer of organic material, such as compost, sand, or a soil blend, to enhance a lawn’s health and structure. Using a broadcasting spreader or drop spreader, this practice improves soil structure, enhances nutrient availability, and promotes healthier turf growth. It also reduces thatch buildup, improves water retention, and levels minor depressions for a smoother surface.

By incorporating finely screened materials, topdressing enhances microbial activity, breaking down thatch and strengthening root systems. It also helps minimize lawn stress, naturally controls thatch buildup, and supports long-term turf health, creating a more resilient and well-balanced lawn.

Reel Mowing Inc.: Your Trusted Lawn Care Company

Reel Mowing Inc. specializes in comprehensive lawn care and ongoing maintenance. With complementary services to topdressing, we help ensure your lawn stays impeccably maintained.

Here's how our topdressing helps your lawn:

• Aeration: We aerate while topdressing your lawn, alleviating soil compaction and enhancing air, water, and nutrient circulation to the roots for stronger, healthier grass growth.
• Sanding: Our precise application smooths uneven areas, enhances drainage, and improves soil structure, helping to create a more level and resilient lawn.
• Post-service institutions: After installation, we provide detailed post-service instructions, ensuring customers know how to water and maintain their newly topdressed lawn for optimal results.

How Often Should You Topdress Your Lawn?

Topdressing frequency depends on soil conditions, lawn usage, and maintenance practices. For high-performance residential lawns, this lawn care procedure is typically recommended once or every other year.

For best results, topdressing should be paired with core aeration. Aerating before applying topdressing ensures the material integrates with the soil, reducing compaction and improving root penetration.

When Is the Best Time to Topdress a Lawn?

Once you've determined how often to topdress, the next step is choosing the best time of year for your lawn. The ideal timing depends on your grass type and local climate.

Here’s a guideline:

• Cool-season grasses (Kentucky bluegrass, Fescue, Ryegrass): Best topdressed in early fall or late spring when the turf is actively growing
• Warm-season grasses (Bermudagrass, Zoysia, St. Augustine): Best topdressed in late spring or early summer as the grass enters peak growth