Sod 101
How to Prepare for Sod Installation
Clear the sod installation site. Move any debris or items out of the way. This includes rocks, sticks, building materials, outdoor furniture, toys, potted plants, etc. If we’re installing the sod, we will take it from there!
If you’re installing your own sod, you’ll need to work the top layer of dirt to loosen it up and grade the land to flatten it out using a machine or rake. Remove any existing vegetation and spread fertilizer.
New Sod Maintenance
Water new sod frequently. Keep new sod soaked for the first 2-3 days, this may require multiple waterings per day. Water daily for the first couple weeks. The top 6 inches of grass and soil should be kept moist during this time. From that point on, how much water your sod needs and how often you need to water it depends on the weather and grass type.
Sod Tips, Tricks, & News
FAQs
What information do I need to request a sod quote?
To request a sod quote please provide us with:
- Location—address or zip code
- Square footage—Measure the area you want sodded. (It doesn’t have to be perfect, but a more accurate measurement will result in a more accurate quote.)
- Environment–shade, sun, frequent flooding, etc.
- Purpose–home lawn, sports field, commercial development, golf course
- Activity–will the sod experience heavy or light foot traffic?
If you aren’t sure or are unable to provide any information, contact us! We’re happy to help.
Want to get an idea? Use our sod calculator for an estimate.*
*Our sod calculator is meant to be used for estimate purposes only. For a personalized estimate that includes all information needed, please contact us.
How do I know which grass type to choose? What is the right sod type for me?
Choosing the right sod comes down to appearance preference (including seasonal appearance), environment, location, shade, sun, foot traffic, and purpose. Check out our types of sod to learn more about your grass type options.
Our team can provide a professional recommendation for which grass type(s) are right for your project.
What is the difference between cool season grass and warm season grass?
Cool Season Grass: Black Beauty Fescue, HGT Bluegrass,
- Thrives in cooler temperatures
- Green year round
- Semi-dormant during hot, dry weather
- Irrigation is helpful, but not a requirement
Warm Season Grass: Zoysia, Bermuda
- Thrives in warm temperatures
- Turns brown when frost begins to form
Dormant (appears brown) through Winter until temperatures get warmer in the Spring.
Can I install my own sod with no experience?
If you want to install your own sod, more power to you. With some advice from a pro and a little common sense, most people can successfully install their own sod if the job isn’t too big or complicated.
We have faith in you, but if you’re unsure whether you’re up to the task, ask our staff.
How long before I can mow my new sod?
We know you’re eager to whip out the lawn mower and mow your beautiful new grass, but it’s important to be patient and not get aggressive with it.
Wait until your sod has taken root (when you tug on it, the sod should be firmly attached to the ground) and has grown a few inches. Depending on weather and watering, your sod should meet this criterion and be ready to mow in 1-2 weeks.
Why is laying sod better than planting grass seed?
- Sod can be laid year-round; grass seed can only be planted during certain times of the year.
- Sod gives you instant grass; it takes several weeks or even months for grass seed to germinate and grow into a full lawn.
- Sod is less susceptible to weeds compared to grass seed during germination.
Sod requires less maintenance to achieve a successful result.
How long does it take for sod to root? How do you know if sod has taken root?
Sod begins to root within a couple days of installation. Depending on weather and water, it typically takes 1-3 weeks for sod to fully take root.
Gather a few pieces of grass in your hand and gently pull up, if it stays down and feels firmly attached, the sod has taken root.
Can I walk on sod? How long should I wait to walk on sod?
Yes! You can walk on sod immediately after installation. Just remember it might be a little mushy from all the watering.
Do you have to water sod? How often do you water sod?
Yes, you have to water sod. In fact, proper watering is essential.
Water sod immediately after installation and continue to soak it daily for 2-3 days. After the first few days, water every other day for the next couple weeks. After that, the sod will take root and will require less frequent watering. Your ongoing watering schedule will depend on weather conditions and the type of grass.
What is the best type of grass for heavy foot traffic?
It depends on location, but one of the best types of grass for heavy foot traffic is Zoysia.
When is the best time of year to lay sod?
Any time of year is a good time to install sod if you understand the sod type and how current weather conditions impact the sod.
Which type of grass stays green year-round?
Fescue and HGT Bluegrass stay green year-round.
Which grass type requires the least amount of water? What is the most drought resistant grass type?
Tiftuf Bermuda requires the least amount of water and is well-known for its drought resistance.
Which types of grass grow in the shade?
Fescues and HGT Bluegrass are the best grass types for shady conditions.
Which grass types do well in direct sunlight?
Tiftuf Bermuda, Zeon Zoysia, Stadium Zoysia, and Meyer Zoysia flourish in direct sunlight and sunny environments.
What are the best grass types for a yard?
Any grass type can be used for a yard, choosing the right grass type for your yard depends on your appearance preference, sun/shade, environment, soil, and activity/traffic level.
A sod professional can help you choose the right sod type for your yard—contact us.
What is the hardiest grass type?
Hardy grass types include Tiftuf Bermuda, Zeon Zoysia, Stadium Zoysia, and Meyer Zoysia.