Compared to growing grass from seeds, which can take up to six weeks for a new lawn to become established, sodding is the quickest way to get a lush green yard. But laying sod can be tricky for do-it-yourselfers, and requires specific steps to ensure it succeeds. For this reason, many homeowners choose to hire a sod installation service instead of tackling the job themselves. A professional knows how to lay sod in a timely and efficient manner, avoids seams, and prepares the soil for optimal results.
The first step is to make sure the ground you’re laying sod on is level and bare. If needed, the soil should be tilled to remove any rocks and dips. Soil amendments can also be used to break up clay soils and encourage root growth. In addition, it’s important to fertilize the soil and apply a weed control product, especially on hardscapes such as sidewalks, patios, driveways, and curbs.
If your yard is large, divide it into smaller sections that you can work on one at a time. This will allow you to keep sod in good condition and give the project a sense of progress. It’s also important to make sure all of your tools are clean and sharp before starting. This includes a sharp shovel, spade, or landscaper’s knife and a sod cutter tool. It is crucial to avoid dragging or pulling the sod during this process, as this can damage the roots and cause them to weaken and die.
Sod arrives in rolls or large square and rectangular slabs, which have to be cut into the right sizes to fit the area you’re working on. This can be very time consuming, so plan ahead and have everything ready before the sod is delivered. Once the sod is installed, water it immediately to keep the soil moist. It is also helpful to use a soil rake to smooth the surface before it sets.
Begin laying sod by placing the first strip against a straight edge, such as a walkway or driveway. As you continue to install sod, make sure the edges are butted tightly and that the joints are staggered. This prevents gaps and keeps the sod from weakening or drying out. If you’re laying sod on slopes, it is best to start at the lowest point and lay the sod perpendicular to the hill.
Finally, don’t walk on sod after it is laid or immediately after watering, as this can leave indentations and air pockets. The same applies to using a mower on sod, as it will damage the grass. Water the new sod regularly, once or twice a day, for an hour during the hottest part of the day. Over-watering can induce rot and root diseases, so only water the ground until it is damp at least four inches deep. Sodding installation