Top Dressing

[hgplp]

I am thinking of top dressing areas of my yard. Trying to fill in dead spots a to smooth out the lawn. It is a large area. I was thinking of using a landscape rake. But not sure if it will let enough soil thru. Has anyone used one for that purpose ?

 

[sandyc]

It should....you can also reverse the rake if you can and use it as a smoother, so to speak.

 

[The Fred]

I use a submarine bunk bed attached to a 3 point hitch. I know it sounds stupid but it is the only way I have found to smooth topsoil and 3/4" stone in the driveway. It is a tube frame 6 feet wide by 2 feet long.
https://d18gmz9e98r8v5.cloudfront.net/ptr/20120719061523_685901241_1194_9.jpg

Another way that works is the tow behind chain harrow but not nearly as effective OR maneuverable.
How to Use a Chain Harrow - YouTube

I have in the past used a railroad tie behind a 3 point hitch rototiller with good success. I know I'll get laughed out for this (could care less) but really the sub bunk works best for me behind a 2600 lbs. machine. The tube sides are rounded enough to not dig in yet hold enough soil to filling in low spots, also stones will be held inside the bed allowing you to pile them by pulling up the 3PH lever. Very cheap to build and a keeper. Works well in the Spring to distribute dog S H I T on the lawn without digging in after the frost leaves the ground mushy.

Good luck, Fred