Instructions for Installing Sod
Steps for Installing Sod
Soil Preparation
Contact a local TPI member regarding specific soil needs
Remove all debris from the area
Grade area to desired contours
Rototill or spade area to the depth of 10-15 cm (4-6″)
Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slope away from foundations, etc.
Peat Moss can be added to improve the composition of the soil. Use 2 to 4 bales of 6 cu. ft. size per 100 sq. metres if desired
Soil test your lawn with the assistance of a qualified service in your area. Top Soil should be available to a depth of 8 to 10 cm. If this amount of top soil is not available, it must be added.
Prepare the soil by rototilling to a depth of 8 to 10 cm. rototilling first one way, and then the other way.
Soil Preparation Continued..
Add Fertilizer, lime, peat, compost, etc. as needed at the rate of 10 Kilograms per 100 sq. metres and rototill or rake to a depth of 7-10 cm.
Recommend fertilizer 5-20-20 or similar ratio. Rake top 3 cm. to a smooth, even surface, and roll lightly to show up any depressions.
Rake and smooth the soil, removing rocks, roots and large clods.
Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water to firm surface and reveal areas that need more soil
Keep the grade 2-3cm (1″) below sidewalks or driveway
Water the prepared area to settle soil and provide a moist base for turf to a depth of 15cm (6″)
Sod should be laid as soon as possible. Never later than 24 hours after delivery.
Installing Sod
Step 1
Have the ground completely prepared before you order your sod. People who are not accustomed to physical labour should pace themselves accordingly and if necessary get help from friends.
Step 2
Stack the sod in the shade, or cover with moist burlap, if not laid in 8 hours. Locate a straight line, such as a curb or driveway, or run a taut string up the middle of the area to be sodded. Work along this line to establish the first row.
Step 3
With a rake, smooth the area immediately ahead of sodding. Lay in Brick-Work fashion. Make sure all joints are butted tightly together without overlapping. Staking is advisable on extreme slopes.
Step 4
To fit non rectangular edges, and small areas, cut the sod with a knife or hatchet.
Go over the area with a one-third filled roller to press the roots to the soil.
Step 5
NEW SOD WATERING SCHEDULE: Watering within the first 1/2 hour of turf grass installation is the most important. Give your new lawn at least 2 to 3 cm (1 in) of water within 1/2 hour of installation. Water sod daily or more often, keeping turf moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Then less frequent and deeper watering should begin. 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. Water areas near building more often where reflected heat dries the turf. Caution: During the first three weeks, 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. If you have any questions be sure to ask our staff how to water sod best for your new lawn.
Step 6
Your newly sodded lawn generally needs mowing after 6-7 days. Now that you have established your lawn of freshly cut sod, grown by a qualified nursery sod grower you must decide how good a lawn you want.
Turf After-care
Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly. With proper care, it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface and an improved environment. Here are some tips to keep your new lawn healthy after you install sod:
– Mow turf often – generally no more than a 1/3 of grass height ( generally 1.5-2″ mowing height)
– Keep your mower blade sharp
– Follow local TPI mowing recommendations for your type of lawn
– Fertilizer and chemical applications will depend on climate, sod type, soil, insects, weed, and disease conditions
– For fertilizer and maintenance requirements, consult with our staff A&M Sod Supply is a TPI Member.
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