planting a new lawn

Step 4: Rake Smooth and Firm

1. Remove stones and vegetative matter brought to the surface during tilling.  
2. Rake the area until it is smooth. 
3. Water the ground and check it for puddles.  
4. Allow the soil to dry; once dry enough, move soil from high spots to fill the depressions. 
5. Roll the prepared soil to provide a firmer base and to foster adequate soil structure.  Fill a lawn roller about one-third with water, and roll until your footprints are no deeper than a ½-inch for optimal planting. If seed is planted in soil that is too loose generally ends up too deep and may die before they reach the surface.   
6. Complete planting preparations by thoroughly watering the area to a depth of 5 or 6 inches two days before planting.

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