Questioni live in houston texas. i have lived in my house for about 20 years. we planted an oak tree about 12 years ago in the center of the yard. we have never had a problem until recently. the ground is very soft. you actually sink into the ground when you step in the grass. also the grass is somewhat dying too early in the season. i dont know if there is a acid problem with the tree or what. im a pretty yard savvy guy but this problem is one i cant figure out. i hope i have given you enough info to help me. thanks and hope to hear from you soon.
Answer Let me say from the start that I do not have a good explanation for the condition. But here are my thoughts.
Is the soft ground wet? If yes, has it rained? If yes, that may be the reason.
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If no, search for a leak in the potable water system or the irrigation system.
Is the soft ground dry? If yes, are you experiencing unusually dry weather? If yes, it may be that the ground water level is receding which could cause air to be drawn into the soil profile and create the condition. It would be similar to aerating the soil with a machine.
Could it be that you are feeling the sod as soft and think that it is the soil? Because an insect like grubs could be eating away at the grass roots causing the grass to die and feel spongy. Indeed, wih a bad infestation, you can roll up your lawn like a carpet.
