top dressing

[tmshort]

I'm interested in top dressing portions of our yard this year and in the future ... what is the best implement / process for doing so? Thinking of adding compost twice a year along with some overseeding, etc.

Will likely do a total of 1-2 acres - mainly what is around the house.

Thanks

 

[Farmwithjunk]

I bought a Turfco spreader a few years ago at a golf course/turf supply company surplus sale. Kinda pricey, but it does an outstanding job. Helps that I got it for pennies on the dollar relative to actual value....

Call around to turf supply dealers and see if they offer a rental.

Turfco Direct | Commercial Lawn Care


Also, you can use a small manure spreader. Just not NEARLY as accurate.

 

[JeffinNE]

I've wanted to do the same thing on 1.5 acres for the last few years with compost. Between the cost of a good implement for the job and the compost it just seems too expensive.

 

[Wolfy]

Dump small piles where it is needed, and blend in with a landscape rake.

 

[Villengineer]

rent a top dresser to do this. You can control the amount you put down and is by far the best way to get an even spread. I've often thought about buying an old manure spreader and trying to make my own. Renting ones just easier for how few times it's needed.

I've done it with a landscape rake . Very difficult to get a even spread. With it set tines "forward" you pull up too much thatch and grass. Makes a mess you have to go back and clean up. Creates work and slows you down. With them set in reverse it does better, but you still don't get as uniform a depth as you do with a top dresser.