How To Install Sod Effectively

By Anika Clemmey


The Tips:

I was thinking about setting up a new lawn making use of rolls of grass, and got to pondering about all the terms used for the ground cover. You can almost use the terms, turf, sod, and lawn interchangeably, and most people would know what you suggest. But since I like to be somewhat right in my choice of words, I researched the main difference between these terms. What are the terms or guide in installing the sod properly?

1. Sod measurements - Whenever beginning your sod challenge you must consider into account all landscape structures and flower beds. Then, using a measuring wheel or tape measure, accurately measure the area to be sodded. Add 5% to this number to allow for cutting around structures & beds. This quantity signifies the square footage of sod you will need. If you are not sure most sod dealers can help you if you give them with an precisely marked drawing.

2. Soil Preparation - Preparing the base under your sod is vital! As the grass grows the roots must be able to penetrate into the soil. Hard surfaces protect against the growth of grass. Make sure all stones, aged roots and grass are taken out from the installation area. Topping this with three inches of topsoil creates a good base. This operates well as the sod strips come with its own soil amendment.The base area must be leveled to insure sod will also be level. Using a appropriate grading rake will work best. For more substantial areas you may need to roll over the soil using sod roller. Rolling ensures that soil does not run or settle causing holes or gaps that will hinder sod growth. Sod preparation is almost everything when it comes to sod installation.

3. Purchasing sod - There are many sod suppliers to pick from (lawn and garden stores, sod growers and nurseries) but you should know what you are looking for. Sod strips should be thick and at least 2 inches long. Look for a consistent green color with a network of roots on the underside, with a moist soil base of at least 1". Sod strips should not tear or fall apart when handled. For large applications, we recommend sod shipping and delivery to decrease handling. Lay your own first row of sod beginning against edge of a flower bed, house, patio or any landscape border.

The subsequent row should overlap at the seam. Do not line up your seams! Stagger seams to steer clear of lines when sod grows in. Use a sod cutter (you can obtain one at most lawn and garden stores) to cut along all borders and around sprinkler heads. Keep all pieces on the side as you may require them to fill up in as you do the job. Throughout the first two weeks you should water for 45 minutes. This hefty watering helps to push roots down into soil. Following this, you should water it 20 to 30 minutes a day, depending on heat conditions. Everyone desires to know when it's good to do the first cut. Relying on the growth of the turf and if the roots started to grab it, it will decide when you can cu it. Check the area by lightly pulling back a piece of sod. If the sod has rooted, you may do your first cut. Since your new lawn is in its infancy, it should be freshly mowed at a slow pace for the first month.




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