Preparation

Weather we sodding a small or large area, preparation of the soil is critical, yet often neglected in establishment. Good site preparation will simplify maintenance for years to come and ensure healthier turf. Soil preparation should be the same for sodding as is for seeding. Before we begin, we take a soil sample to find out the characteristics of the soil we are working with.

The best type of soil for growing turf is a sandy loam. This soil is sand with some silt and clay. Other soils may need amendments and more care, but will support a good lawn. Amending a heavy clay soil with organic matter such as peat will open up a soil, allowing better air and water movement. If a large amount of fill is needed, such as to raise up an area, we use a good quality topsoil with less than 20% clay and free of residual herbicides. Any topsoil or soil ingredient should be incorporated into the native soil carefully.

Once amendments have been tilled in, we fine grade the area with the addition of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer, as prescribed by the soil test. Additional nitrogen can be added after the lawn is mowed the first time. We use a lawn roller to firm the soil slightly.

Planting the sod

Now the soil is ready to receive the newly cut sod. We lay the sod on slightly moistened soil, staggering the joints much like brick laying. When laying sod on a slope, lay the rolls across the slope and stake each piece to hold it in place. We fill any cracks with soil seed to prevent edges from drying. We use a roller about one third full of water to smooth the site and ensure the roots of the sod have good contact with the soil.
Now is the time to keep the sod moist but not saturated until it is firmly rooted in the soil (a few days), then gradually reduce watering. In two to three months it can be treated as an established lawn.