AboutJames L. Crowder Expertise I can answer questions about soils, soil amendments, drainage and proper planting. I have extensive background in homeowner labeled pesticides (insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, etc.) and their proper use. I can also answer questions about the growing requirements of specific plants
Experience I have 37 years experience in the lawn and garden business split fairly evenly between the retail nursery business and wholesale distribution of consumer lawn and garden products. From 1990 to 2000 I co-hosted a weekly call-in talk radio program in Memphis, TN.
Organizations Garden Writers Association
Horticultural Board of the Mid South Fair
Publications Green Thumb Magazine - out of print
Education/Credentials 37 years of learning everday.
Awards and Honors Past president of the Memphis Horticultural Society.
Past president of the Memphis Bonsai Society.
Memphis Horticultural Society 2008 Horticultural Excellence Award
Question I have an area of land approximately 12,000 sq feet that was recently cleared
of brush, etc. However there is a ridiculous amount of rocks that are
preventing me from being able to plant grass. If I were to remove all of the
large rocks from the site and left the smaller rocks, could I just get a large
amount of topsoil to bury them? How much depth of topsoil would I need to
be able to plant grass?
Answer Hi Chris, I'd want a minimum of 8". The soil needs to be the same type soil you have, except without the rocks. You do not want to use a different type or texture of soil. It will create a watering nightmare. Also, if there are roots from desirable trees in the area, you cannot add soil on top of their rootzone. It will damage or kill the trees.
If it were mine, I'd remove the large rocks, till it, rake it out and sow your grass seed at the appropriate time and not add any additional loose soil that may wash. Jim
