Question
Half of my back yard grass has died, it is under a very large maple, the tree roots have come to the top of the ground. Some areas have grown moss, but the rest is hard packed dirt. I want to know the least effective fix.
What about a low growing ground cover, or any other suggestion.
Thank you,
Janet Bulow

Answer
Growing grass under a mature maple is almost a loosing battle. I recommend stone stepping stones and a good ground cover. Ideal choices are pathysandra and vinca minor. I have used minor vinor under our maple, too, and it stays green all year. It should be watered every week for the first year, but after that it is extremely draught tolorant. It does not handle walking on very well, so put down stepping stones or otherwise create a path between it. Finally, fertilize once in early spring every year, and you can every fall mow it with the mower once. This keeps it nice, thick and tidy. Avoid letting fallen leaves stay over winter. Rake in late fall/early winter with a plastic rake, or even better blow them off. The maple leaves tend to mat down and will kill the ground cover in worst case. I recommend vinca minor (periwinkle).