Topdressing with compost on lawns is becoming more and more popular. Why? Simple, many of the new lawns that have been installed over the last few years lack organic matter. Because of this, the turf has a hard time developing a good root system. Without the proper amount of organic matter, lawns are also more susceptible to drought. Topdressing in the spring and fall with approximately 1/4″ of good quality compost will greatly improve lawns that are low in organic matter.