If you put 1″ of soil down and then walk on it and repeat, you will get a very good compaction. Too bad that you did not have a rental yard that had the large rubber drum with a handle to compact the soil.
I have 30 years of experience and i started this website to see if i could try and share my knowledge to help you.
With a degree a Horticulture BSc (Hons)
I have worked as a horticulture specialist lead gardener, garden landscaper, and of course i am a hobby gardener at home in my own garden.
Please if you have any questions leave them on the article and i will get back to you personally.