Back To Top 9. Till the Soil Tilling the soil to a depth of 3 to 4 inches promotes deep rooting of grasses. Use a power driven rototiller and till in several directions. Final Grading Fine grade to smooth the surface soil in preparation for planting. Use a hand rake for small areas.
Larger areas require a heavy steel drag mat, soil blade, plank drag, or tiller.
Allow one to two weeks for the soil to settle before final grading. Irrigation or significant rainfall will aid in settling the soil. During final soil preparation, examine height and slope of soil in relation to walks and driveways. Driveways and walks should be the same level as the soil surface. Fill any low spots which may collect and hold water after irrigation or rainfall.