what tools do you need to lay sod

Tools Needed to Lay Sod

• 1. Soil Analysis Kit (Optional) The soil analysis kit is definitely recommended when you’re installing a new lawn; however it’s not mandatory to get the job done. ...
• 2. A Non-Selective Herbicide ...
• 3. Sod Cutters or a RotoTiller ...
• 4. Topsoil and a Rake for Leveling ...
• 5. Sprinkler (Optional) ...
• 6. Wheelbarrow or Wagon ...
• 7. Utility Box-Cutter or Garden Knife ...
• 8. Lawnifi New Lawn Starter Box ...

Full Answer

How to lay sod in a lawn?

How to Lay Sod. 1 1. Remove the Old Grass. Before laying sod, the old grass and a bit of the old soil beneath it has to be taken away. The goal is to end up with a ... 2 2. Prepare the Soil. 3 3. Lay the Sod. 4 4. Neaten the Edges. 5 5. Water Frequently. More items

What do you use to level the ground for SOD?

Use a garden rake (also known as a bow rake) to level the soil and break up any large chunks. Make sure that the finished, leveled soil is 1 inch below all the paved surfaces that surround it, leaving vertical room for the new sod.

What is the best fertilizer for laying sod?

A successful sod installation relies on the existing root system of your grass growing quickly. You need this root system to develop and work itself deep into your soil. The phosphorous in starter fertilizer is key to having success when laying sod. It is important to note, that depending on your area, phosphorous may be regulated.

How do you keep sod from seeping in?

Keep laying sod in a staggered, brick-like pattern. Laying sod in this fashion will make the seams less apparent later. Make sure that the edges of the sod butt up against each other without overlapping. Don't leave gaps at the seams; these exposed edges will be prone to drying out and leaving brown spots in the yard.

What do I need to do before laying sod?

Prep the SoilStart by watering the area. Spray an herbicide over the entire yard.Next, lay compost on the lawn. ... Once the existing plant life dies, till and rake the ground. ... Your prepped dirt should be at least 6 inches deep. ... Test the fresh terrain using a soil test kit. ... Lay fresh topsoil if needed.

How much sod can 1 person lay in a day?

Lay sod on the day of delivery The average person can comfortably lay 2,000 to 2,500 square feet in one eight-hour day. Make sure your yard is completely ready before delivery or pick-up, and order only what you can lay in one day. Sod is perishable!

Is laying sod a hard job?

Laying down grass sod to start or repair a lawn is pretty easy, but it's also labor-intensive and requires knowing more than “green side up.” But don't be daunted. If you have a bare or barren patch of yard, sod is a moderately priced way to turn your turf around.

Can I lay sod myself?

Yes, unless it's a small area. And you'll need other tools. Count on one weekend to prepare the soil for sod and another to lay the turf. If your yard is covered with patchy grass, you'll need to remove it first.

Do I need to put topsoil down before sod?

Adding topsoil is not essential for sod but it will provide some benefits. What topsoil does is increases a soil's water and nutrient holding capacity, so if you do add it, the intervals between watering and fertilizing will be longer.

Should I wet dirt before laying sod?

And being a living thing, it needs water in order to root and grow properly. If there's one landscaping tip you need to keep in mind for sod, it's hydration. In addition, you should ensure that your soil is prepped and properly watered before laying sod down.

How late is too late for sod?

Although sod can be harvested and laid in late fall, when morning frost is present, if daytime temperatures are consistently below 32℉ (0℃), it's too late for sod installation. Sod can be installed as long as daytime temperatures are consistently above freezing.

When should sod be put down?

You can lay sod anytime during the growing season, as long as the ground is not frozen and you have adequate water for establishment and maintenance, although spring and early autumn are best. Cool temperatures combined with occasional rain help sod quickly root.

How long does sod take to root?

Your new sod should root within 10-14 days of application. This is also when you should mow your new lawn for the first time after laying sod. Be sure to set your mower to the highest setting possible in order to avoid cutting it too close to the root.

Do you need to roll sod?

Once your sod has been installed, you will need to roll in your sod. Rent a sod-roller from your local hardware or equipment rental store. Fill the sod roller with water. Roll the sod roller across your lawn in a grid-like pattern.

How long can sod stay rolled up?

How Long Can The Sod Stay Rolled Up? Sod is a living thing, and the shorter the time it stays rolled up, the better. It can last 3 or 4 days in the spring rolled up, but needs to be unrolled the same day you get it in summer.

How thick is sod usually cut?

between 1 and 3 inches thickBecause of the variation in grass types, there's no universal standard for sod thickness. However, sod usually ranges between 1 and 3 inches thick. This is a valuable factor in determining the appropriate sod thickness you need.

How long can sod sit before installing?

Sod is a perishable product, so we recommend you lay it the same day it's been cut. If you aren't using it right away, make sure you don't let it sit longer than 24 hours or overnight, and keep it as cool as possible by placing it in the shade.

How long does it take sod to root?

Your new sod should root within 10-14 days of application. This is also when you should mow your new lawn for the first time after laying sod. Be sure to set your mower to the highest setting possible in order to avoid cutting it too close to the root.

How late is too late for sod?

Although sod can be harvested and laid in late fall, when morning frost is present, if daytime temperatures are consistently below 32℉ (0℃), it's too late for sod installation. Sod can be installed as long as daytime temperatures are consistently above freezing.

Can you walk on sod after its laid?

When can you start walking on new sod? You can start walking on your new sod once shallow rooting takes place, typically after about 14 days. To check whether rooting has occurred, gently lift one of the edges of your sod and note the resistance as you lift.

What Direction Should You Lay Sod?

Make sure you lay your first row against a straight edge ; this could be along your yard or fence or patio.

What Is the Best Time of the Year to Lay Sod?

Sod can be installed spring through fall (and even in winter in mild climates). In areas of the country that favor cool-season grasses, like the Northeast, it avoids the problem of sprouting a nice crop of weeds when seeding a lawn in spring. And in southern states, which favor warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass, zoysia grass, and centipede grass, sod is the best way to cover the yard at any time of year, since these turf types cannot be grown from seed.

Why do farmers cut sod at night?

Because sod is perishable and dries out quickly, many farmers cut their turf in the middle of the night so that it can be delivered and installed the same day. To keep it moist, consider watering the sod after you lay the first large area and move the sprinkler around the lawn as you complete each subsequent section.

How long does it take to get sod delivered?

Ideally, sod should be delivered within 24 hours of being cut and be laid the same day.

How does Roger make his sod curve?

Instead, Roger makes his sod curve the way a tailor might, by cutting a dart or two in a full-sized piece. With the sod la id next to the curve, he grabs a couple of spots along one edge and pinces them together to make the sod follow the contours of the bed.

How to improve drainage in a sandbox?

Loosen the top 6 to 8 inches of soil with a rototiller. Spread 2 inches of finished compost (this may be available for free if your town has a municipal compost center). Add 2 to 3 inches of sand to claylike soil to improve drainage. Till in amendments. Then, based on the results from your soil test, use a spreader to lay down the appropriate starter fertilizer, and then lime if needed.

How much does a rototiller cost?

While you’re at it, you’ll want to rent a rototiller (about $55 per day). You’ll also need a sod-cutting knife with a 2-inch blade, a spreader, an iron rake, compost, and other soil amendments, including fertilizer and lime, depending on what your soil analysis dictates.

What is Sod?

Sod is a layer of established grass that is dug up with roots and some soil still attached. Sod farms harvest it in long strips and roll it up, soil side out. You should always buy sod that can be harvested and delivered the same day you will be installing it in your yard. Sod that’s laid down more than 24 hours after harvesting may not survive—and that would be a serious waste of time, effort, and money.

What is the fastest way to give your yard a complete new lawn makeover?

Laying sod is the fastest way to give your yard a complete new-lawn makeover, turning it from a space you avoid to somewhere you’ll want to hang out all day long. Welcome back, grass!

How long does it take for Scotts turf builder to work?

Keep the nutrition coming by starting a regular fertilizer program 6 to 8 weeks after laying new sod. Scotts® Turf Builder® Lawn Food helps grass grow thick, strong, and green, leaving little room for weeds.

What to do when grass has retreated?

If you’ve reached the point of no return when it comes to your lawn—you know, when the grass has retreated to the point where there is nothing but weeds as far at the eye can see—it’s time to start over. You’ve got two choices: Reseed or lay down sod. While reseeding might be cheaper and involve a little less effort, it also takes longer to get that gorgeous green lawn you’re longing for.

How long does it take for sod to grow?

Laying sod, on the other hand, is a path to near-instant gratification. Instead of waiting 6 weeks for seed to grow, you get a finished-looking lawn right after you complete the job.

Can you walk on newly laid sod?

Make sure that you don’t walk on the newly placed sod while you’re laying it out. You should stand on the bare soil, lay the sod in front of you, and back up as you go. If you stand on the newly laid sod, your body weight will cause the sod to shift, leaving gaps between the edges.

How to keep sod from eroding?

Lay sod around hills instead of from top to bottom. Laying the sod horizontally across the hills, rather than vertically along the hills, will prevent the hill from eroding. When the grass roots establish themselves they'll hold the dirt underneath in place. If you lay them vertically, especially on steep hills, you might encounter problems with the strips of sod bunching toward the bottom instead of staying in place on the hill.

How long does it take to lay sod?

Give your sod the best chance to grow healthy by laying it as soon as it comes. It'll be delivered to you in long rolls, and the entire process of laying it should only take a day.

How much does a pallet of sod weigh?

Sod is quite heavy and usually comes on a heavy duty pallet in amounts of 450 square feet or more. A single pallet of sod can weigh over a ton (2,000 lbs), so a half ton pickup truck will not carry it well. Before placing your order, check whether there is a minimum delivery amount, and whether the sod farm or nursery can transport it to your site.

What happens when you buy sod?

When you buy sod, you're essentially paying for someone else to do the tough work of growing healthy, thick grass from seed. All you have to do is make sure the soil underneath provides the right conditions for the sod to take root, and you'll have that perfect lawn you've dreamed about.

What to consider when choosing grass?

When you're deciding which grass to get, take use into account as well. Do you plan to walk over your grass frequently, and play sports or have parties on the lawn? Or do you just want a pretty lawn to gaze upon from the window? Some varieties are sturdy, some are soft, some are high maintenance, and some are more colorful than others. Tell the sales representative what you're looking for.

What grasses grow best in the winter?

It's best to choose a grass that's native to your area. This way you can ensure it will grow well in your climate. Cool season grasses (grasses that grow fastest in the spring and fall) like Kentucky bluegrass, perennial ryegrass, tall fescue, and fine fescue grow best in the northern US states, where the winters are cold and the summers are hot. Warm season grasses (grasses that thrive in very hot weather) like Bermuda grass, centipedegrass, St. Augustinegrass, bahiagrass, and zoysiagrass, grow best in the southern states and subtropical regions.

How to rough grade a large area?

To rough grade a large area, use a tractor mounted blade. They're quite expensive to purchase, but you can rent one from a home and garden store.

Where can I buy sod?

Sod can be purchased from any garden center or directly from a sod farm. In fact I have a complete guide to buying sod, with tips for saving money which you might be interested in.

Who Should Lay Sod Instead of Growing Grass from Seed?

Laying out sod may be perfect for you, especially if you’re looking for a quick turnaround period for your lawn.

How is sod installation time determined?

Your sod installation time should be determined by where you live, and what type of grass you’re purchasing.

Why is sod yellow?

There are a few reasons why this isn’t the best approach, but the biggest is this: Small pieces of sod dry out faster than large pieces, even if their depth is the same as a standard piece of sod. Those small pieces of sod you’re using to fill gaps around a curved object will turn yellow and be dead within a week.

Why does sod backfire?

The most common reason why sod backfires is that the soil doesn’t meet the proper conditions for your sod’s roots to set in the first place. If the roots can’t take hold, then laying sod on your property is a waste of effort, and worse, a waste of money.

How long does it take for sod to be delivered?

It should take within a day for the sod you ordered to be delivered.

What is the mistake when you lay sod around a fence?

A rookie mistake when you have to lay sod around a fence or lamp post or other curved obstacle is to “guesstimate” the shape.

How far below the edge of a sod?

Usually this will be about 1 inch below the fixed edge you are installing around.

What is the best way to remove grass?

Using a Shovel (and elbow grease) If you are really determined to remove that grass, and don't want to use chemicals or can't use a tiller, then a shovel may just be your best option. It’s a lot of work, but it will get the job done. Be sure your surface is level when you are through. .

Why is fertilizer important for a green lawn?

Fertilizers are essential for a green lawn as they a id your new sod with nutrient uptake and improve the soils PH, which allows the roots to establish themselves deeper in the soil, leading to a healthier, happier, and greener lawn.

Can you use a tiller to till grass?

If you live where rocks and roots are not an issue, you can use a tiller or bedscaper, to till existing grass into the soil. While your at it add some compost and fertilizer, and mix it in. This type of lawn preparation is timely, but may be the best way to really give your sod a head start. YouTube. GreenValleyTurf.

When you have decided on your turf, are you ready to install?

Once you have decided on your turf and had it delivered, you are now ready to install your new greenery. If you need help deciding on a turf variety check out our turf variety guide.

Do you need to level sod with edges?

But remember you will need make the sod level with any edges such as walkways, driveways, or any other surface level with the ground.

Do you have to remove sod from an existing lawn?

In my experience if you have an existing lawn it is not always necessary to remove it, in order to install sod,as long as you can level the ground with some organic material. But remember you will need make the sod level with any edges such as walkways, driveways, or any other surface level with the ground. To install sod on an existing lawn, cut ...

Measure Your Lawn

The first thing to do is to measure your lawn. You want to get the dimensions as accurate as you can to know how much sod you will need to lay down. The good thing about sod is that you can cut it to fit your lawn’s dimensions. Sod is usually measured in sq. ft. so you will want to estimate the square footage of your yard.

Prepare Your Yard

The first thing you need to do is prepare your yard for laying down sod. Take the rake and turn over the top 6”-8” of soul, making sure to not go too deep. Once the top layer of soil has been churned, spread a layer of compost or fertilizer approximately 2-3 inches deep. You can also add a little bit of sand or clay to improve drainage.

Lay Down the First Roll of Sod

Starting from the side, place the edge of the sod and start to roll it out. You will want to start with your yard’s longest edge and work your way to the shorter edges. Make sure that you do not step on the sod during this process, and make sure to smooth out any footprints you leave in the dirt.

Lay The Next Rolls of Sod

Now it’s time to lay down the other sod rolls. You will want to cut the remaining sod rolls in half so you can stagger the seams like you would when laying bricks. This will make the seams less noticeable at the end. Be very careful to make sure the rolls line up with each other without overlapping.

Fill in Seams

Next, take the broadhead broom and gently brush some extra soil across the seams. Make sure that you do not loosen up the turf edges or mess up the seams. Also, make sure you smooth out any wrinkles that brushing may cause. You can do this part by hand, but a broom will make it much easier.

Flatten the Sod

Once you have the rolls laid down and all the corners edge, you need to thoroughly press the sod so it makes firm contact with the soil. Starting with the first roll you laid down, work your way across, and firmly press the sod down into the dirt, taking care to remove any air pockets.

Watering

Now that your sod has been laid and pressed, it’s time to give it its first watering. Sod will initially require thorough watering so the roots can take hold in the soil. You should try to water at least once per day for the first 1-2 weeks unless it rains that day. After the first week or two, reduce watering to about once every other day.

How to Measure for Sod Installation?

In order to determine the square footage needed, we recommend dividing up the installation areas into rectangles and measuring the length and width with a measuring wheel.

What Fertilizer to Use When Laying Sod?

You typically don’t need to apply any fertilizers when laying new sod. Most sod will come already fertilized from the sod farm. In addition, if you are installing soil to the installation areas, most of this soil has a high level of nutrient materials in it as well.

How Often Do You Water After Laying New Grass?

Newly installed sod grass will need to be watered daily for the first 10-14 days. You should keep the sod moist enough for the roots to be loose enough to secure themselves into the soil also referred to as the “rooting stage”.

How to Get Rid of Weeds Before Laying Sod Grass?

If you have a weed problem in your current lawn, you won’t want to pass that problem along to your brand new sod as well .

How Long After Laying Sod Can You Fertilize?

You might be tempted to fertilize your new sod right away, but you should resist the urge. We advise waiting at least one month before fertilizing new sod just as you would when installing new landscaping plants.

How to Prepare Soil Prior to Laying Sod?

In order for your new sod to take root, the underlying soil should be loose. Compacted clay soil does not allow for roots to penetrate and take hold.

How Long Can Fresh Sod Sit Before Installation?

Once your fresh sod arrives from a farm or a sod distributor, ideally sod should be installed within 24 hours. During cooler months, you can wait 48 hours.