Do I Need To Add A Soil Conditioner To Lay Sod If I Am Already Rototilling The Existing Soil?
I used to have a lawn in the backyard but my renters never watered so it is just dirt now. I am going to rototill about 6" deep tp loosen up the soil and rake out the dead thatch layer still under the soil from the old lawn. Is it necessary for me to add anything to the tilled soil or can I just lay sod on top after I roll it flat. It had a healthy lawn before so I think the soil underneath must be pretty good.
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It is not necessary to add anything to the soil if your grass was growing fine before it was damaged. Of course it is a convenient time to do so if you want. Lime reacts better with the soil if it is tilled in. Adding a light application of dolomite is cheap and worthwhile. Wait to fertilize until you plant the grass (sod or seed). If you have a ready source of organic matter (manure, compost) to till in that is good too, but not required. Given that this is a rental property, I would not spend any more than is necessary.
If your tilling to 6 inches why not spread starter fertilizer and grass seed. Sod is more expensive than seed.
If you live in an area that requires watering to maintain sod (which would benefit from some compost added to the soil), perhaps you should consider artificial sod or xeroscaping with stone, and drought resistant plants.
Also, did the renters have dogs? Dogs can kill a lawn pretty quickly if there isn’t sufficient space or maintenance. If so, you might want to check the soil PH and see if you need to add lime.
It would be a good idea it would help the new sod have a better start.
LIGHTLY SPRINKLE LIME TO THE YARD & MIX IN WITH A
RAKE TO SWEETEN THE SOIL