How can I get grass to grow?

Question

My back yard is a mess. I need grass for the dog. I have one large tree which does block light on about one third of a very small back yard. The rest is sloped. I have good drainage but for some reason grass alludes this yard. I'm tempted to sod it but wow is that expensive. Any suggestions?

Kauai Breeze · Answer

Your soil is probably compacted and grass can't get roots into it. You can rent a tiller and chop up the top 2 to 3 inches of soil in the sunny area. If your soil is hard clay, add gypsum to help keep it from compacting again. Then add fertilizer and rake smooth, the spread grass seed. Water with a light mist to keep the area moist for the germinating seeds. This could take a week or more. While the grass is germinating, keep the dog and kids out of the area. Once it is high enough to cut, it will be strong enough to tolerate foot traffic. Use a chopped wood mulch under your tree and add lawn chairs so you can enjoy it too.

Glenda · Answer

Thank you, that makes sense.

Naomie Moore aka baileyanddaisey, Castaic CA · Answer

Here are a few great sites on how to start a lawn from seed. I did this last year and added in white clover which is soft and fluffy and adds nutrients back into the soil.