Question
I had a new cesspool installed some months ago. The ground is now settled, and I would like to re-grow grass. I would also like to create a setting using mulch. What advice can you give me? I am actually afraid of the yard because it caved in about four feet wide and in depth. What would you do to have a nice landscape and one that is safe for kids?

Answer
Not sure what you mean here by 'setting using mulch'.  You want to re-grow grass, but also mulch?

I know how you feel -- the earth vanishing like that.  Ever read 'Life and Death in Long Island Cesspools'?

http://www.poopreport.com/BMnewswire/long_island_cesspools.html

It's about a Huntington homeowner who also had a new cesspool installed -- rather, this is what happened BEFORE the new cesspool was installed, that caused him to order one.  Took place last April 2006.

Presumably your new cesspool has YEARS ahead of it and no chance whatsoever of dissolving under your Lawn.  Fear not.  You can set up a deck there if this is something you lose sleep over, but give it time; you'll probably get used to it.

We are now on the brink of summer.  It is the worst time of year to grow new Grass.  It is not, however, the wrong time to put down a nice patch of new, green, healthy Sod.  Why don't you find a friendly local landscaper who will do that for you?  It's a small enough project that it won't cost an arm and a leg, and it is not too hot yet, so the roots will have time to get used to your house.

Once down, remember it will have to be watered.  And although your friendly landscaper won't mention this, I recommend you prepare a nice batch of Compost Tea.  Get one of your Gutters to pour down rainwater into a nice new garbage pail and plan on using that for tea this summer.  It will give your new Grass, and your old Grass, lots of rich nutrients and other things that will fight Fungus, help beneficial microbes generate vitamins and minerals for your Grass, and improve the quality of your soil.  Let me know if you need a recipe.  And remember you should not drink this stuff!

Organic gardens are the only ones safe for children and pets to play on, walk through, lie on.  Do you mow your own Lawn?  You don't want to breathe those fumes if there's chemicals in them.  THAT is something to be scared of.  Much more than a new Cesspool.

So please let me know if there's something I missed here, Natacha.  I am clear about your reference to Mulch.  I'd like to help.  Let me know.  Thanks for writing.