What should be added to the soil before planting turf grass besides topsoil?

Adding organic matter to the soil before planting turf grass is critical for several reasons. Organic matter improves soil structure, enhancing its ability to retain moisture and nutrients while promoting better drainage and aeration. This environment is conducive to root growth, which is essential for the establishment of healthy turf grass.

Additionally, organic matter acts as a source of nutrients for the grass. As it decomposes, it releases essential elements into the soil, providing a slow-release fertilizer effect that supports the grass over time. This not only encourages strong initial growth but also contributes to the overall health of the turf as it matures.

In contrast, while insecticides and fungicides are important for managing pests and diseases, respectively, they should be used judiciously and not be a primary amendment to prepare the soil before planting. Similarly, synthetic fertilizers can provide nutrients, but they do not offer the same benefits for soil structure and long-term fertility that organic matter does. Therefore, focusing on organic matter is the best practice for establishing a new turf grass lawn.