On Sat, 22 May 2004 20:02:00 GMT, wrote:

I just completed building new house in Ohio and is in the process of having
a lawn installed by a lawn service. Now the lot has a lot of stone in it.
One service said the will bring in a rock hound to work the dirt, put in
60lbs of grass seed and straw for a $1050. The next said they would bring
in a rock hound, rake the dirt after the rock hound, deliver and spread top
soil, 100 lbs of grass seed, spread biodegradable straw, fertilize the lawn
for the rest of the year for $3000. The last one said the would bring in a
rock hound, rake the dirt after the rock hound, and grass seed and straw for
$895. Quite a difference in price and what service they will provide. Can
any one give me some good advice in what to look for in having a good
quality lawn installed? Thank you in advance.

I'm sure you could do the job better than a service, and for a lot
less money. First, take the time and remove the stones by hand using
buckets. Get several people to help you or hire individuals to
collect stones. I'm sure kids out of school will gladly take $8 an
hour. Then buy the best quality seed you can find ($150) and several
bales of straw ($45). Do not use hay. Use any brand Starter
fertilizer ($40). Keep moist, watering every other day, being careful
not to flood any area. The water might cost you a couple hundred
bucks. Apply (slow release) fertilizer again around Labor Day. It is
better to use a little more seed than not enough. Do not be concerned
about weeds until next spring.