Establishing a beautiful lawn on a newly built lot or repairing your existing lawn after heavy construction can be a frustrating process.
New building lots and construction sites are ripe with challenges that make it difficult for grass to grow into that beautiful green oasis we all want. From poor soil conditions to construction debris, these issues can prevent your lawn from thriving or kill it altogether. Here are five common reasons why lawns on new building lots struggle and some things you can do to help your lawn bounce back.
Common Issues
Soil Compaction
During the construction process, heavy equipment is used to prepare the site and there is often a ton of foot traffic, which can lead to compacted soil. When soil is compacted, it becomes dense, making it difficult for grass roots to penetrate deep enough and to access water and nutrients. This leads to poor root development with weak grass growth.
Poor Soil Quality
Construction activities can significantly disrupt the natural composition of your soil. The loss of topsoil, mixing of different soil layers, or changes in organic matter accumulation can lead to poor-quality soil that's deficient in water, oxygen, and nutrients. This makes it challenging to sustain plant life, like growing healthy grass.
Leftover Construction Debris
Leftover construction materials and organic matter (or even residual toxins) can remain in the soil after building or remodeling a home. These materials can block seed germination and prevent grass roots from establishing. They can also make water absorption and drainage an issue, further hindering healthy grass growth.
Grading and Drainage Issues
When a lot is not properly graded (creating a gentle slope to ensure proper water drainage), water may either pool in low areas or run off too quickly in others. This creates uneven moisture levels, which can wash away or drown grass seedlings and impede grass growth. Improper drainage can also lead to long-term issues like erosion, foundation damage and pest problems.
Missing Topsoil
Topsoil is the nutrient-rich layer of soil containing a mass number of microorganisms that constantly break down organic matter. During construction, the topsoil may be disturbed, removed, or buried under layers of subsoil. Without this essential soil layer, your grass won't have the nutrients it needs to grow strong and healthy.
How to Overcome Them
Test Soil
Soil testing is the first step to understanding the nutrients your soil is lacking. After testing, amend the soil to create a more favorable environment for healthy grass growth. If the contractor left any removed topsoil to the side of the property, you could incorporate it back into the soil. If not, purchasing quality topsoil or adding organic compost— or both— are good options to improve lawn growth.
Aerate Soil
Soil aeration is an effective solution to soil compaction, allowing for healthier grass growth. By pulling soil "plugs" and depositing them on top of your lawn, you allow air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively. This process also introduces extra organic matter to the surface, where it breaks down over time.
Clear Debris
Remove any leftover construction materials, rocks, and large organic debris like tree roots. After heavy construction, debris is often buried, so be sure to check beneath or around existing landscaping.
Grading and Drainage
If necessary, regrade the lawn to create a slight slope away from buildings, preventing water from pooling or running off too quickly. Installing proper drainage systems in areas where water accumulates can help manage excess water.
Fertilization
Applying the right type of fertilizer at the right time will help your lawn hold onto the nutrients it needs for growth and spring back from the stress of new construction.
Seek Professional Assistance
Establishing a healthy lawn on a new construction lot or repairing a struggling lawn after a big project may require a little extra effort, but it's entirely possible with the right approach. Whether you're dealing with compacted soil, poor grading, or construction debris, there are solutions that can help your lawn thrive. If you need expert assistance, consider reaching out to professionals who can guide you in creating the lawn of your dreams.