Turf Installation and Maintenance

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This guide is very useful for general information. However, there are several soil types in our area and there are specifics for each one. So if you are confused or uncomfortable, give us a call at 1-800-627-4051 and we will help you straighten everything out.

STEP 1: MEASURING ORDERING SOD
Use a tape measure to calculate the area of your planned lawn. Include these measurements on a sketch of the lawn area, with the length, width and any unusual features or irregular angles. Reference your sketch when being helped by your sod professional. Sod is sold by the square foot. (To find the square foot, take length X width.) Schedule the delivery of sod after your preparatory work is completed and you are ready to install. Prompt installation is critical for a successful lawn.

A properly prepared sitSTEP 2: HOW TO PREPARE YOUR SITE FOR SOD
Rake and smooth the soil, removing large rocks, roots, and large clods. If necessary, roll the area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil surface and reveal low areas that may need more soil. Soil prep should be firm but not compacted. Keep the grade 1-1/2 inches below sidewalks or driveway. Water the prepared area to settle soil and provide a moist base for turf. A depth of 6 inches is recommended for most soils. (See watering instruction video).

STEP 3: SOD INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
It is important to install your new sod as soon as possible after delivery. Certainly within 24-36 hours.
Begin watering the sod as soon as you have laid an area large enough. Sod is a living plant that requires soil contact and moisture to survive.
Begin installing sod along a straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt the edges against each other. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners. On slopes, place sod across the slope.
To avoid causing indentations or air pockets, do not stand or kneel on sod while it is being installed or just after watering.

STEP 4: HOW TO WATER NEW SOD
Give your new lawn at least 1 inch of water within a half-hour of installation. Keep the sod moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Then less frequent and deeper watering should begin. Irrigation should be done in the very early morning. 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 the areas near buildings more often where reflected heat dries the turf. (See watering instruction video).

CAUTION
During the first 2-3 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.

SOD MAINTENANCE
Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly. With proper care it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean area and an improved environment. Mow once a week removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height. (See How to Mow Your Lawn video) Proper cutting height for turf is 2.5 to 3 inches. Make sure your mower blade is sharp. Picking up the clippings improves the appearance but does not eliminate thatch. Mulching mowers help fertilizer cost and landfills. Fertilizer and chemical applications will depend on climate, sod type, soil, insects, weed and disease conditions.

SOD FERTILIZER PROGRAM
      Spring       Early April use: 10-12-12
      Summer    May, June, September use: 25-3-3, plus iron
      Fall            November use: 12-8-16, plus iron

Instructional Videos on Lawn Maintenance