Laserfiche WebLink
~- <br />3. Topsoil Application • <br />T`.~ recommendation for topsoil should be based primarily on need and <br />cost. <br />Topsoil is needed on sites having an exposed soil surface low in <br />organic matter and texture classification of clay loam or heavier. <br />This need increases significantly if the soils are inherently dry, <br />if the slopes are greater than 6:1 and if the slope aspect is south <br />or southwest. <br />The total cost of topsoil should include cost of purchase, transpor- <br />tation, and application. <br />Topsoil should be applied after shaping and grading have been completed <br />and the site tilled to a depth of approximately 6 inches. Tillage <br />permits topsoil to bind with existing soil. Binding of soil layers <br />prevents air pockets, encourages root penetration, and prevents topscil <br />slippage on slopes. <br />Following application of topsoil, final steps in seedbed preparation <br />should be completed. <br />4. Fertilizer Application <br />A. Critical areas shall be fertilized unless a laboratory soil analysis <br />indicates sufficient amounts of nitrogen and phosphorous are present <br />for establishment of vegetation. <br />B. If fertilizer is recommended, rate of application should not be less <br />than 40 lbs of nitrogen and 40 lbs of phosphate. <br />C. Time of application should normally be immediately prior to seeding. <br />If proper equipment is used, fertilizer may be applied at time of <br />seeding. If the nutrient content of the soil is sufficient for <br />establishment, it may be desirable to apply fertilizer after grass <br />is well established. This procedure allows the grass, rather than <br />weeds, to better utilize the plant nutrients. <br />5. Mulching <br />A. All critical areas will be mulches unless the area conservationist, <br />in consultation with the state agronomist, waives the requirement <br />in order to accomodate unusual circumstances. <br />not necessary to mulch th lat borrow areas, eve?~though the entire <br />acreage is reported as critical area planting.) <br />~_ <br />1 <br />B. For a guide in selecting the most effective mulch for controlling <br />erosion and aiding in establishing vegetation, see Agronomy tJote <br />No. 47, "i!ulches for Critical Areas", and Standards G Specifications <br />for "tulching". <br />Page 2 of 3 <br />