A healthy, well-groomed lawn that makes you want to walk barefoot can be inviting. Keeping a lawn in top condition can be a lot of work.

It starts with getting a good stand of grass. The best time to plant a lawn is in the fall. Before you plant, your Agway retailer can help you get all the tools, seeds and fertilizer you need as well as give you advice to help you successfully plant and maintain your lawn.

Testing the soil before you start is vital because it will tell you the pH value and nutrient levels in your soil. That's why commercial farmers regularly conduct soil tests.

Grass thrives at a pH level of 6 to 6.5, which allows the plant to get the most out of nutrients.

To test the soil, dig 10 plugs of dirt about 3 to 6 inches deep from different areas of your yard and take the samples to be tested.

Based on soil-test results, trained co-op personnel can help you pick the right fertilizer and tell you how to prepare the soil.

They'll also help you choose a seed suited to your needs. Factors include whether your lawn is shady or sunny, high traffic or low maintenance, or drought tolerant.

To ensure a uniform stand, try to spread seed evenly and then lightly rake the area. Limit seed cover to 1/4 inch or less. A mulch cover protects seed during germination.

Water the area daily until germination to keep the soil surface moist. Then water regularly and watch your new grass grow.

Once your lawn is established, rely on advice from the experts at Agway to keep your yard in top condition.