Laying Sod Like a Pro

Ideally preparation should be done ahead of when your sod is picked up or delivered.  Ideally sod is rolled out and watered on the same day are the delivery.  Within 48 hours of being cut and delivered delivery sod still rolled up will start to yellow and over heat.  This happens faster on hot days.  Make sure you have hoses and /or sprinklers ready for watering.

Strip old grass and thatch layer to bare soil. Or simply add a healthy new layer of loam or compost.  This step usually improves soil quality and structure, especially if the previous lawn performed poorly.    Avoid compacting soil with heavy machinery.  Grade soil to slope away from home.  Leave final grade 1″ below sidewalks and curbs.  Rake soil by hand as smoothly as possible, removing rocks and bumps and fill in all depressions to avoid puddles and low spots

Apply separate application of starter fertilizer and lime per directions before installation or about 3 weeks after.

Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as the driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push edges against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners, etc. Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges as they will not retain moisture. On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope.

Water thoroughly as soon as a sizable area is sodded.

Water sod thoroughly, especially along the edges as soon as it is laid out. Give your new lawn the equivalent 1 inch of water within the 1/2 hour of installation and repeat for the first day or two.  Meaning run a sprinkler long enough to fill up a 1 inch tall tuna can for example. Water 1/2″ twice per day during normal conditions for the first week. Then about once per day to keep turf moist until firmly rooted for the second week. Gradually decrease the frequency and increase the amount of water to encourage deeper growing roots.  Pay attention to watering for several months especially in summer. Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering. Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods.

During the first three weeks or so, avoid heavy or concentrated use of your new lawn. This gives the roots an opportunity to firmly knit with the soil, and insures that the turf will remain smooth. Make sure to keep an eye out for under or over watering, adjustments may be needed due to shade, sprinkler patterns or weather. If you see an issue, call us for some pointers before it really bad, a minor adjustments could save your hard work.