---
title: Why Topdressing Composition Matters | Emerald Lawns
description: Did you know that using the wrong kind of topdressing on your lawn can actually damage it? In this blog, learn how Emerald Lawn's topdressing options are the best for your yard!
---

[The Dirt ](https://emeraldlawns.com/blog)

# [Why Topdressing Composition Matters | Emerald Lawns](https://emeraldlawns.com/blog/helping-hurting-topdressing-composition-matters)

 Written by [Emerald Lawns](https://emeraldlawns.com/blog/author/emerald-lawns) | Sep 6, 2018

Helping or Hurting? Why Topdressing Composition Matters

 

**Did you know topdressing could scorch your lawn?** Certain types of [topdressing](https://emeraldlawns.com/topdressing-explained/), even those sold at local hardware stores, can actually burn your lawn.

 

# Dillo Dirt

Dillo Dirt contains the highest amount of nitrogen out of all the composts available in the local market. Here are several reasons why we don’t recommend applying Dillo Dirt to your lawn:

- Made from **treated human waste**, or sewage sludge
- It isn’t recommended to grow food close by
- While it’s a nutrient mixture that Bermuda lawns might like, other turf types might not respond well due to the nitrogen concentration
- **Excessive amount of weed seeds** in the mix
- It attracts flies and has a foul odor
- Contains potential **pathogens, heavy metals, and organic pollutants **

# The Emerald Way

We use our organic, locally sourced topdressing mix formulated by our professionals that’s like a vitamin B12 shot for your Central Texas lawn, composed of:

- Cotton Burr
- Pine Shavings
- Pine Dust
- Rice Hulls

Plus, there’s *no smell of waste!*

The benefits of our topdressing speak for itself:

- The organic matter helps **break down compact soil**
- I**ncreases microbial activity** to encourage a healthier lawn environment
- **Adds nutrients** back into your lawn
- Invigorates **root growth and water intake**
- Intensifies** grass growth and density**

# So, What’s Best for Your Lawn?

To learn what compost or topdressing your grass would benefit most from…**take a pH sample of your soil.** If you live in Austin you can [get a test kit for free](https://emeraldlawns.com/need-know-soil-ph/), or purchase one at a nearby home and garden store.

# Of course, Our Team at Emerald Lawns Could Help With That!

### Proudly Servicing Lawns from Woodway to Buda**

[View full post](https://emeraldlawns.com/blog/helping-hurting-topdressing-composition-matters)

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