Where in the world are you?

What does a good reliable soil test say about the soil?

How much organic matter is in that soil?

How well does that soil drain?

How well does that soil retain moisture?

What kind of life is in that soil?

What does that soil smell like?

kimmq is kimmsr

We are in SC, just outside of NC. Our front yard does retain a bit more moisture than it probably should. The side yard gets more direct sunlight. We have not had a soil test. It was a new build and sod was put down Aug 2014. I imagine they sprayed the soil fairly well with pesticides before laying down the sod. Then we moved in and decided to go organic. I have seen increased earthworms but don't know for sure how much organic matter is there.

There is no smell except when we put down milorganite LOL! This recent application was the second time we've used it.

The best thing is to take a sample and send it to a lab. You need to know the organic matter content in the soil. Without good soil it will be impossible to grow grass. Try to keep whatever is growing at least at 4". Assume that whatever is under the sod is just really bad soil.

How many pounds of grass seed did you apply on your lawn? What is the approximate sure footage of the lawn area. You should apply at least 1lb/1000sf of grass seed mix. I would also use liquid organic fertilizer, compost application, and compost tea application. Then see what the soil test recommendations are , and apply then what is needed.