Laying topsoil and planting a lawn

[zestymordant]

So I've got a small raised 2x2m patch in the back yard that I wish to turn into a lawn... got rid of the paving slabs, built a laughable retaining wall to replace the old one which came apart (new one is, ahem, functional is the best word for it) and am in the process of raking over and removing the existing soil to put a layer of topsoil down.

The thing I don't get is: the instructions on the topsoil say rake over the existing soil and put a layer of topsoil down for a depth of at least 5cm, and then rake that over.

I can see following this advice causing major problems. Surely if I merely rake the soil over when it's stood on the footprints will sink an inch or two? Am I supposed to get one of those drums you fill with water and flatten the bottom layer first? Even then the topsoil layer will still be a bit spongy though, yes?

If anybody can assist this total amateur I'd appreciate it.

Thanks!

 

[HERTS P&D]

You can watch the whole video but what I think you need is from 5.48.

Andy

 

[zestymordant]

You can watch the whole video but what I think you need is from 5.48.

Andy

Thanks for replying, but what video are you referring to?

One thing also I forgot to mention, I have seed, not turf, and can't really afford to buy a load of turf now.

 

[HERTS P&D]

It was for the prep of the soil.

Anyway I found this one for you:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9cSqoY_1zRs&feature=fvwrel

Andy

 

[zestymordant]

That video is exactly what I needed, although I feel a bit lazy/stupid for not looking myself now. Thanks!