How do i take care of a lawn in a wooded area>

Veronica EXPERT July 01, 2008

I'm assuming you're talking about raking leaves up off grass, which is good. Leaves smother grass and can kill it. On the plus side, that soil is probably high in organic matter and laoded with earthworms.

Reseed if the grass is thin. Grass seed likes cool weather, so wait until fall when daytime temperatures are seldom getting above 80 degrees. Keep the soil surface moist for several weeks after seeding -- you don't have to water a newly seeded area deeply because seedlings have shallow roots.

You should lime only if you know you have acidic soil. Acid soils are common in the eastern US. The Midwest and West usually have alkaline soils, which should NEVER be limed.

If you live in a region with acidic soil, have a soil test done to find out how acidic it is. The testing lab will recommend how much lime to apply to increase the soil pH, and how often (usually once every 3-5 years).

You can get a soil sample bag and instructions from the local office of the Cooperative Extension Service (you can look up yours on the Manage My Home garden center page, by entering your zip code). A locally owned garden center might also have them. Take the soil sample according to the instructions, and then mail it to the testing lab, which is probably affiliated with your state's agriculture college.