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
You are here: Experts > Style > Landscaping > Soil Issues > Large area of backyard to muddy for many months of the year we can't use it!!!
Soil Issues - Large area of backyard to muddy for many months of the year we can't use it!!!
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
