The key to successful sod installation begins with soil preparation. New sod establishes quickly, taking root and flourishing into a thick, long-lasting turf. This guide will explain what you need to know before you lay sod, including how to clear the site, test and prepare your soil, and add Lawn fertilizing.
What is Sod?
Sod is a combination of grass and overtaken the soil underneath as a thick mat of roots. It is raised on farms and harvested in strips or squares that can be laid down on prepared earth to provide an instant lawn. Sod gives you a good green surface immediately, helps prevent soil erosion, and it establishes more quickly than seeding, so it’s a popular choice for homeowners looking for an instant lawn and service for professional landscapers.
Sod Pre-Installation Steps
Proper soil preparation establishes a base for sod that is fertile, well-drained and can be laid on a level grade. Without the base, your sod might have trouble rooting and grow spotty, weedy or not at all. The work you do in preparing your soil will pay off in the form of a beautiful lawn for years to come.
Best Time to Lay Sod
The best time to lay sod varies based on the type of grass. The best time for cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or perennial ryegrass is the late summer to early fall period, when temperatures are mild and there’s more rainfall. Late spring through early summer is the best growing period for warm-season grasses such as Bermudagrass and St. Augustinegrass. Do not lay the sod on frozen or extremely hot ground.
Soil Testing
Test your soil before planting to know what you are dealing with. You can use an at-home soil test kit, or you can send a sample to a professional lab. Soil tests uncover pH levels and nutrient deficiencies, so you can amend soil correctly before sodding it in. Inasmuch as lab results can take up to 10 business days, it’s smart to test early so you can get the soil ready and waiting.
Gather Materials and Tools
In addition to the sod, there are a few tools and supplies you’ll need to help make the installation as smooth as possible:
- Stakes and markers to outline the area
- Aerator to loosen compacted soil
- Sod cutter for removing old grass if necessary
- Leveling rake for smoothing the soil
- Rototiller or plow to till the soil
- Lawn roller or tamper to press sod firmly into the soil
- Measuring tape or wheel to calculate the area
Purchasing Sod
Select the species of sod that matches your climate, sun, and maintenance needs. Northern climates do best with cool-season grasses, and southern climates prefer warm-season grasses. Think about how sunny your yard is, and how much maintenance you can handle. Sod Many places that sell sod will deliver it, which I highly recommend as sod can dry out fast. Order delivery and installation on the same day or within 24 hours, as freshness will start to fade after that.
How to Lay Sod
Installing sod is simple task if done right, but it is all about the prep work & technique. Once the soil is ready, the sod pieces are placed closely together in a staggered, brick-like pattern to minimize gaps. Press each strip into the soil well for good root contact. After the sod is installed it needs to be watered deeply and frequently to promote rooting into the soil below. Good maintenance during the establishment period is crucial for a healthy lawn.
Step 1: Clear the Site
Clean up to the point of being rid of all debris such as rocks, sticks, old roots, and any construction materials. It is a good idea to dig up any existing grass, weeds or plants to start with a fresh base. This can be accomplished by application of herbicides, and/or by physical removal of the vegetation.
Step 2: Rough Grade the Area
The building pad is rough graded to remove excess material, water pooling and eliminate drainage concerns, by sloping the build pad away from the building. Level high spots, fill lows and do any final shaping using hand-held tools or a tractor. This will expose more reflects, so clean as necessary.
Step 3: Till the Soil
- Loosen the soil 4 to 6 inches deep with a rototiller or garden fork.
- Tilling loosens compacted soil.
- It increases air circulation, and promotes the ability of roots to pass through.
- It also incorporates organic matter and amendments for improved fertlity.
Step 4: Mix in Topsoil and Amendments
If your soil is not rich in organic matter or nutrients, add in a generous amount of good quality topsoil or compost. You will be aiming for a soil depth of 4-6 inches all together. Do a soil test to test for pH and nutrients. “Add lime to increase or sulfur to lower the pH and add a starter fertilizer that is high in phosphorus to promote root growth.
Step 5: Finish Grade the Site
Once your soil soil amendments tilled gently, smooth the surface with a rake, being careful to make sure that it’s at the correct slope and that your soil is roughly ¾ of an inch below the height of sidewalks and driveways so that it can settle. Sift out any rocks and other debris.
Step 6: Settle the Soil
Gently water the soil once it has been prepared to help it settle. You could firm it with a lawn roller, if necessary, but don’t compact it. If possible, allow the soil to sit for a few days before installing the sod.
Soil Preparation Tips for Sod
- Test Soil Early: Test your soil a month before the sod is put in to make any possible amendments.
- Don’t Bring Up Weed Seeds: If you have problems with weeds, try applying a pre-plant herbicide and waiting for it to work before you till.
- Inspect Proper Drainage: See that water drains away from your home, and do not plant on the sides of steep hills where it may cause erosion.
- Water Before Laying Sod: Understanding the benefits of water before laying sod will help sod to root quickly. Water the ground with plenty of water 24 to 48 hours prior to fitting.
Conclusion:
Sodding Proper soil preparation is the key to a successful sod installation. Clear, grade, till, amend, and level the soil well so that your sod will have a nice flat layer on which to root and grow deep. By following this guide you guarantee you’ll have a beautiful green lawn on your property for years to come.
FAQ’s
You can sod the land (a depth of 4 to 6 inches) for loosen compacted soil and mix in amendments.
Yes, It’s a good idea to pull or kill existing grass and weeds before laying sod. It is best to reduce competition and ensure good root contact.
You can purchase a soil test kit, or you can send a sample into your local cooperative extension office for analysis.
The majority of turfgrasses grow best in slightly acid soil PH(6.0 and 7.0). .
Early spring, or early fall, which still has moderate temperature but rains more.
