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Ruts in lawn #809234

Asked September 02, 2022, 4:50 PM EDT

A heavy utility truck drove on our lawn when the soil was wet, and it left deep ruts. The grass is dying in some places. What is the best way to fix this?

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thanks for the question.

Besides the cosmetic appearance, the main problem is that the soil in these ruts is now compacted. This could potentially interfere with subsequent turf growth. In fact you are already seeing this.  After your soil has dried in these ruts, this would be the ideal time to have aeration done on your entire yard. In the absence of this, you should take a shovel and turn over the top six to ten inches of the soil in these ruts. You will probably need to put some new top soil to fill in the ruts. After doing this, water the top soil very well to promote its settling. Then if necessary add some more top soil to level things out. Perhaps even elevate this new top soil an inch or two above your existing turf in case further settling occurs. Then apply new grass seed and water well, even daily. By next season 2023, things should be back to normal.

Please get back to us with any questions. Good Luck.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied September 02, 2022, 5:20 PM EDT

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