Expert: James L. Crowder - 7/8/2009

Question
We have a large 6 x 6 metre shed in our backyard and as a result it shades most of the grassed area in the backyard.  During the winter months the grass gets that wet from rain and the shade not allowing it to dry that for months on end I can't take my kids out to play on the trampoline or swings.  The backyard smells and the grass even dies and turns into massive mud puddles and I have to where my gumboots everytime I go outside.  I also have dogs and they mush the backyard up as well.  I am thinking about putting down pine bark under the kids trampoline and swings hoping it wont be so muddy, or another cheap alternative.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated, I really hate that the kids can't go outside to play, when the sun does show it's face.

Answer
Hi Michelle,  I think ground cover is your best option.  The location is not good for grass.  I'd lay landscape fabric down first, then cover it with bark or pea gravel . Bark is cheap, but it will be brought inside on the dog's fur, kids shoes, etc. and has to be replaced periodically.  Pea gravel is a little more, but permanent and stays in place in heavy rains.  Jim