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Why Is My Lawn So Bumpy?

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This is a question that many customers have asked over the years. It seems to be more of a concern in the spring than at any other time of year. The unevenness or "bumpiness" is caused by the normal activity of earthworms. As they move up and down within the soil profile, they will surface to look for organic material to pull underground on which to feed. When they surface, they leave behind small piles of soil and mucus called castings. These castings are very rich in beneficial microorganisms that help to breakdown thatch and provide nutrients to the surrounding plants. The holes that they leave behind help with lawn aeration as well. So, how do you make your lawn less bumpy? Generally, rain or irrigation will help to dissolve the casting piles. Normal lawn care such as mowing can also help hide the bumps. If you mow your lawn high, the bumpiness will be less noticeable. The piles of castings will still be there, but the longer grass blades will mask the bumpiness. Some people wonder if they can roll their lawn to flatten out the bumps. Yes, you can go out and rent a roller from a rental store, fill it half full with water and roll it across your lawn, but it is not the best practice. If it is done once every other year or so it is not going to compact the soil too much, but you have to make sure the ground is soft enough to smooth it, but not too wet or you will compact the soil too much, depriving the soil of oxygen.