Q: I read that tilling is not recommended because it promotes weed growth. My hillside has been excavated. I have clay soil which is hard. How do I achieve soil/seed contact without tilling? If I do nothing, I can see the seed just sitting on the clay until a rain washes it away.
A: You’re absolutely correct about tilling – not in your interest because it brings up dormant weed seed that will compete with the young LymeX®. The top 1/4″ or so of soil needs to be roughed up a bit to accept the seed to accomplish seed/soil contact, then pressed or rolled to firm. Depending upon the angle of the slope a light layer of mulch and/or erosion control blanket should be applied. Hay can be used however important to use a sterile type without seed – commonly called ‘salt hay’.