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Yes, Greenhorizons provides sod samples for architects and landscape designers to use in client presentations, material boards, and design development. We understand that clients need to see and feel materials before making selections, especially for high-end residential and commercial projects where turf quality is a key design element.
Sample Types Available:
Physical Sod Samples:
Small sections of our sod varieties
Shows actual grass color, texture, and density
Clients can see and touch the quality
Available for all our standard varieties
Photo Documentation:
High-resolution images of sod varieties
Close-up texture shots for material boards
Installed examples from completed projects
Seasonal variation photos (spring green, summer color, fall appearance)
Digital files suitable for presentations and specifications
Site Visit Samples:
Bring clients to our farm to see sod growing in fields
Walk different varieties to compare in person
Observe color, texture, and density at full scale
Discuss maintenance characteristics while viewing actual grass
Particularly valuable for high-end residential or showcase commercial projects
How to Request Samples:
For Material Boards and Presentations:
Contact us and give us plenty of notice ahead of your presentation
Specify which varieties you need
We’ll cut fresh samples and arrange pickup
Complimentary for designers with active projects
For Client Selection Meetings:
Schedule sample pickup to coincide with client meeting
Multiple varieties available for comparison
Samples can be laid out on-site for clients to view
Designer can discuss characteristics while clients see actual product
Helps clients make confident decisions
Sample Use in Design Development:
Schematic Design Phase:
Use photos and variety descriptions in initial presentations
Discuss turf zones and variety selection concepts
Present maintenance implications of different grass types
Establish client expectations for appearance and care
Design Development Phase:
Provide physical samples for material selections
Allow clients to compare varieties side-by-side
Photograph samples for design boards and documentation
Finalize grass variety specifications
Construction Documents Phase:
Include high-resolution images in specifications
Reference our product data sheets in technical sections
Provide performance data for submittal requirements
Support contractor understanding of specified materials
What Samples Demonstrate:
Visual Characteristics:
Color intensity and shade (deep green vs. lighter green)
Blade width and texture (fine, medium, coarse)
Density and coverage (how thick and lush)
Uniformity across the sample
How grass responds to touch (resilience, softness)
Quality Indicators:
Root development and soil layer thickness
Weed-free appearance (premium vs. standard grade)
Maturity and establishment
Soil quality and composition
Overall health and vigor
Beyond Samples – Additional Support:
Project-Specific Information:
Variety recommendations for your site conditions
Maintenance requirement summaries for client education
Performance data for different use scenarios
Installation timing and establishment expectations
Installation Examples:
Photos of completed projects using specified varieties
Before/after transformations
Different applications (residential, commercial, public spaces)
Seasonal appearance documentation
Technical Consultation:
Discuss variety selection during design development
Review specifications before finalizing
Answer client questions during presentations
Support contractor coordination during construction
We’re Here to Support Your Design Process:
Greenhorizons understands that material selection is critical to design success. We’re committed to providing the samples, information, and support you need to present confidently to clients and deliver exceptional landscapes. Contact Us Today
Include grass variety with cultivar names, grade quality, soil preparation requirements, installation methods, and establishment criteria in your landscape specifications. Clear, detailed specifications ensure contractors bid accurately, install correctly, and deliver the quality your design requires.
Essential Specification Components:
Grass Variety Specification:
Specific, Not Generic:
Good: “Kentucky Bluegrass blend, premium grade, containing minimum three (3) cultivars rated ‘Good’ or better on NTEP trials”
Poor: “Grass sod” or “Lawn turf”
Recommended Format:
Botanical name: Poa pratensis (Kentucky Bluegrass)
Common name: Kentucky Bluegrass
Blend composition: “Three-cultivar blend” or “60% Kentucky Bluegrass / 40% Fine Fescue”
Grade: Premium or Contractor grade
Alternative varieties: “Or approved equal” with approval process
Quality Standards:
Material Requirements:
Purity: “95% pure seed content minimum”
Weed content: “Less than 2% weed coverage, zero noxious weeds”
Thickness: “Minimum 1-inch soil layer with fully developed root system”
Maturity: “Minimum 12 months field-grown”
Freshness: “Harvested and delivered within 24 hours of installation”
Appearance Standards:
Colour: “Uniform green colour appropriate to species”
Density: “Minimum 95% grass coverage”
Condition: “Free from disease, insects, and damage”
Size: “Pieces minimum 2′ x 5′ unless otherwise approved”
Soil Preparation Specifications:
Critical for Success:
Depth: “Minimum 6 inches topsoil meeting OPSS 802 or approved equal”
Composition: “Loam with 3-5% organic matter”
pH: “6.0-7.0, adjusted as necessary based on soil test”
Grading: “Fine grade to smooth, uniform surface, ±0.05 feet from design grades”
Compaction: “Firm but not compacted; suitable for root penetration”
Soil Amendments:
Testing: “Conduct soil test and amend per recommendations”
Drainage: “Ensure positive drainage, minimum 2% slope away from structures”
Fertility: “Incorporate starter fertilizer per soil test recommendations”
Installation Method Specifications:
Layout and Placement:
Pattern: “Install in brick-bond pattern with staggered joints”
Fit: “Tightly butt joints without gaps or overlaps”
Edges: “Trim edges cleanly to match planting bed lines and hardscape”
Slopes: “On slopes steeper than 4:1, stake with biodegradable stakes at 18-inch centers”
Installation Process:
Timing: “Install sod within 24 hours of delivery”
Contact: “Ensure complete contact between sod and prepared soil”
Rolling: “Roll installed sod with water-filled roller weighing 150-200 lbs”
Watering: “Irrigate immediately following installation per establishment requirements”
Establishment and Maintenance:
Establishment Period:
Duration: “60 days from substantial completion”
Watering: “Irrigate to maintain moist soil to 4-inch depth until established”
Mowing: “Begin mowing when grass reaches 3.5 inches, maintain at 2.5-3 inches”
Repair: “Replace damaged or failed areas exceeding 1 square foot”
Acceptance Criteria:
Coverage: “Minimum 95% live grass coverage”
Rooting: “Roots penetrated minimum 3 inches into subsoil”
Appearance: “Uniform color, density, and growth”
Condition: “Free from weeds, disease, and damage”
Drawing and Document Coordination:
On Landscape Plans:
Delineate turf areas clearly with hatching or color coding
Label different turf zones (lawn, sports turf, shade blend, etc.)
Note transitions between turf and planting beds
Indicate slope directions and grades
Show irrigation coverage for turf areas
In Specifications:
Reference plan sheet numbers showing turf locations
Coordinate with irrigation specifications for establishment watering
Coordinate with grading and drainage plans
Cross-reference soil preparation in site work specifications
Include maintenance specifications or requirements
Product Specification vs. Performance Specification:
Product Specification:
Names specific supplier: “Greenhorizons Sod Farms premium Kentucky Bluegrass”
Provides certainty of exact product
May limit competition
Use when: Specific product is critical to design intent
Performance Specification:
Describes requirements: “Premium grade Kentucky Bluegrass meeting ASTM F2650”
Allows contractor to source from multiple suppliers
Encourages competitive bidding
Use when: Multiple products can meet design requirements
We Recommend: Performance specification with “or approved equal” clause, allowing designers to review and approve alternatives.
Common Specification Mistakes:
Too Vague:
“Install grass sod” – What type? What quality?
“Prepare soil” – How deep? What amendments?
“Water as needed” – What schedule? For how long?
Too Restrictive:
Specifying single source without “or equal”
Requirements that eliminate legitimate alternatives
Over-specification of minor details
Inconsistent:
Plans show one thing, specs say another
Conflicts between divisions (landscape vs. irrigation)
Installation timing conflicts with other trades
Incomplete:
No acceptance criteria
No establishment requirements
No warranty terms
Missing soil preparation details
Technical Support We Provide:
Specification Review:
Review your draft specifications for completeness
Suggest improvements based on field experience
Ensure specifications are achievable and appropriate
Verify terminology and standards are current
Product Data:
Detailed variety information for specification reference
Technical data sheets for submittal requirements
NTEP performance data
Compliance documentation (ASTM, OPSS, etc.)
Specification Templates:
Sample specification language you can adapt
CSI MasterFormat compatible sections
Performance criteria and acceptance standards
Warranty language
Contractor Support:
Answer contractor questions during bidding
Provide material certifications for submittals
Clarify installation requirements
Support quality control during installation
Ontario-Specific Considerations:
Climate Adaptability:
Specify cold-hardy varieties suitable for Zone 6
Reference Ontario growing conditions in cultivar selection
Consider freeze-thaw tolerance for infrastructure applications
Regulatory References:
OPSS (Ontario Provincial Standard Specifications) for municipal projects
Local municipality standards if applicable
Conservation authority requirements for waterfront projects
Seasonal Timing:
Note ideal installation windows (spring: April-June, fall: September-October)
Address winter protection if late fall installation
Consider establishment timing relative to first frost
Well-Specified Sod = Successful Projects:
Clear, complete sod specifications ensure:
Accurate contractor bidding
Quality material installation
Successful establishment
Client satisfaction
Design intent realized
Let us help you develop specifications that deliver the quality your designs deserve. Contact Greenhorizons for specification support, technical data, and collaboration on your next landscape architecture project. Contact Us Today
Yes, different sod varieties create distinct aesthetic effects that can reinforce architectural design themes. From formal traditional estates to contemporary minimalist landscapes, turf selection impacts the overall design character. Understanding these relationships helps create cohesive, intentional landscapes.
Consultation Process:
Share Your Design Vision:
Architectural style and materials
Desired aesthetic character
Maintenance expectations
Use patterns and priorities
We’ll Recommend:
Specific sod varieties
Installation approaches
Maintenance programs
Edge details and transitions
Review Examples:
Photos of similar applications
Completed projects in similar styles
Seasonal appearance expectations
Long-term performance
Support Your Design:
Whether you’re designing a formal estate, contemporary masterpiece, or naturalistic retreat, sod variety selection reinforces your design intent. Contact Greenhorizons to discuss variety selection for your architectural aesthetic. Our design team understands how turf contributes to overall design character.
Collaborate with us to select sod that enhances your architectural vision and delivers the aesthetic quality your projects deserve. Contact Us Today
Specify regionally appropriate, low-input grass varieties with responsible production practices and efficient irrigation to support LEED credits and sustainability goals. Thoughtful sod selection and specification can contribute to multiple LEED credit categories while creating beautiful, functional landscapes.
LEED Credit Opportunities:
Sustainable Sites (SS):
SS Credit: Heat Island Reduction
How sod contributes: Vegetated surfaces reduce heat island effect compared to hardscape
Specification strategy: Maximize turf area vs. dark paving; specify high-density sod for full coverage
Documentation: Calculate vegetated area percentage; show surface temperature reduction vs. paving
SS Credit: Rainwater Management
How sod contributes: Pervious surface allows infiltration; reduces runoff volume and velocity
Specification strategy: Specify proper soil depth (minimum 6 inches) for water retention; avoid compaction
Documentation: Calculate infiltration rates; model runoff reduction
Water Efficiency (WE):
WE Credit: Outdoor Water Use Reduction
How sod contributes: Specify drought-tolerant varieties requiring less irrigation
Specification strategy: Choose Bluegrass/Fescue blends (fescue uses 30% less water than pure bluegrass)
Limit turf to functional areas only
Specify efficient irrigation with weather-based controllers
Documentation: Calculate baseline vs. design water use; show irrigation efficiency
WE Credit: Indoor Water Use Reduction
How sod contributes: Use harvested rainwater or graywater for irrigation
Specification strategy: Design irrigation system to accept alternative water sources
Documentation: Show alternative water source usage
Materials and Resources (MR):
MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure – Environmental Product Declarations (EPD)
How sod contributes: Regional sourcing reduces transportation impacts
Specification strategy: Specify local sod supplier (Greenhorizons is Southern Ontario-based)
Documentation: Supplier location; transportation distance; fuel consumption
MR Credit: Building Product Disclosure – Sourcing of Raw Materials
How sod contributes: Responsibly grown with sustainable practices
Specification strategy: Request documentation of growing practices; pesticide use; soil management
Documentation: Supplier certifications; production methods
Innovation (IN):
IN Credit: Innovation
How sod contributes: Demonstrate exceptional performance in sustainability categories
Specification strategy: Comprehensive sustainable landscape approach integrating sod with native plantings
Documentation: Narrative explaining innovative approach; performance metrics
Responsible Production Practices:
What to Request from Suppliers:
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) protocols
Soil testing and precise fertilizer application (reduce nutrient runoff)
Water-efficient irrigation during production
Erosion and sediment control during growing
Minimal chemical inputs
Greenhorizons Practices:
Soil testing guides fertilizer applications
IPM reduces pesticide use
Efficient irrigation systems
Crop rotation for soil health
Local sourcing reduces transportation
Irrigation Specification:
Efficient Systems:
Drip or subsurface irrigation (more efficient than spray)
Separate irrigation zones (turf vs. planting beds)
Weather-based controllers (adjust for rainfall, temperature)
Soil moisture sensors (prevent overwatering)
Rain sensors mandatory
Reduce Irrigation Demand:
Limit turf area to functional needs
Transition edges to drought-tolerant groundcovers or native plantings
Group plants by water needs (hydrozoning)
Specify drought-tolerant sod varieties
Maintenance for Sustainability:
Specify Low-Input Maintenance:
Organic fertilizers or reduced fertilizer program
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for weed/pest control
Higher mowing height (2.5-3 inches) for deeper roots and drought tolerance
Grasscycling (leave clippings to return nutrients)
Aeration to maintain infiltration
Avoid High-Input Practices:
Excessive fertilization (nutrient runoff)
Preventive pesticide applications
Short mowing height (increases water needs)
Bagging clippings (removes nutrients, requires disposal)
LEED Documentation Support:
What We Provide:
Regional Materials:
Documentation of farm location
Transportation distance calculations
Local sourcing narrative
Product Information:
Variety descriptions and characteristics
Water requirements data
Drought tolerance ratings
Maintenance needs
Sustainable Practices:
Production methods documentation
IPM protocols
Soil and water management practices
Environmental compliance
Carbon Sequestration:
Sod Environmental Benefits:
Carbon storage in soil and plant biomass
Oxygen production (2,500 sq ft lawn produces oxygen for family of four)
Air quality improvement (traps dust, pollutants)
Cooling effect (reduces heat island, lowers building cooling loads)
Quantification:
1,000 sq ft of healthy turf sequesters approximately 300 lbs CO2 annually
Can contribute to carbon offset goals
Document in sustainability narrative
Sod vs. Seed for Sustainability:
Sod advantages: Immediate erosion control, established root system, less failure/reseeding
Seed advantages: Lower transportation impact, no harvest equipment
Context matters: Erosion-prone sites may favor sod; low-risk sites can use seed
Collaboration for Sustainable Projects:
We Support Your Goals:
Discuss sustainability priorities during design
Recommend varieties that align with project goals
Provide documentation for LEED/SITES/LBC submittals
Suggest strategies to reduce environmental impacts
Transparency:
Honest about limitations (sod is not “zero impact”)
Help balance aesthetics, function, and sustainability
Support informed decision-making
Sustainable Sod is Possible:
While turf is more resource-intensive than native plantings, thoughtful specification can minimize impacts:
Right variety for site and climate
Limited area (functional needs only)
Responsible production
Efficient irrigation
Low-input maintenance
Contact us to discuss sustainable sod selection for your LEED, SITES, or environmentally-focused project. We’ll help you balance design intent, function, and sustainability goals. Contact Us Today
Store sod in shade, ensure air circulation, and install within 24 hours of delivery. Proper on-site storage is critical when immediate installation isn’t possible due to site conditions, contractor delays, or phased installations. DO NOT water sod while it’s still on a pallet, or cover the sod. These practices can accelerate the overheating process.
Ideal Storage Conditions:
Location:
Full shade: Under trees, north side of building, or create temporary shade structure
Avoid direct sun: Heat buildup in pallets causes rapid deterioration
Firm, level surface: Prevents pallets from tipping or sinking
Close to installation area: Minimizes handling and transport
Good drainage: No standing water around pallets
Pallet Arrangement:
If off-loading necessary, space pallets 12-18 inches apart
Don’t stack pallets (blocks air flow, crushes lower sod)
Arrange for easy access to each pallet
Face pallets to catch prevailing breeze
Temperature Control:
Heat is the Enemy:
Sod generates heat as it begins to decompose
Heat accelerates deterioration
Shade and air circulation are essential
Monitor Temperature:
Touch center of pallet (should feel cool to slightly warm)
If pallet feels hot, increase air circulation
Very hot pallets (uncomfortable to touch) may be too far gone
Ontario Climate Considerations:
Cool Weather (Below 70°F):
Sod stays fresh longer
Lower heat stress
Ideal storage conditions
Warm Weather (70-85°F):
Sod deteriorates faster (6 hours maximum on-site storage)
Shade absolutely critical
Risk increases significantly
Hot Weather (Above 85°F):
Sod deteriorates rapidly (6 hours maximum on-site storage)
Consider installing early morning or evening only
Delay delivery if possible rather than storing
What NOT to Do:
Don’t:
Leave pallets in direct sun (even for “just a few hours”)
Cover pallets with plastic tarps (traps heat and moisture)
Stack pallets on top of each other
Store in enclosed space without ventilation (garage, shed)
Soak pallets with excessive water
Let sod dry out completely
Assume sod will “be fine” for several days
These mistakes cause rapid deterioration and installation failure.
Signs of Deterioration:
Watch For:
Yellowing grass (especially in pallet center)
Sour, ammonia-like smell (decomposition)
Hot pallet temperature
Slimy texture
Grass easily pulls from soil
Brown, dead patches
If You See These Signs:
Install immediately (even deteriorated sod is better than waiting)
Report to supplier (may warrant replacement)
Increase watering and shade for remaining pallets
Prioritize installing affected pallets first
Emergency Storage (If You Must Store Longer):
If installation must be delayed beyond 24 hours:
Unstack pallets (if stacked) to improve air flow
Create shade structure (temporary canopy or shade cloth)
Increase air circulation (space pallets apart, use fans if available)
Monitor closely (check every 4-6 hours)
Install ASAP (prioritize getting sod in ground)
Communicate with Supplier:
We’d rather reschedule delivery than have sod deteriorate on-site
Call us if installation will be delayed
We can sometimes adjust delivery timing
Don’t hesitate to reach out if problems arise
Contractor Coordination:
Schedule Delivery for Installation Day:
Coordinate delivery time with installation crew availability
Plan to start installation within 2-4 hours of delivery
Have all site prep completed before delivery
Ensure adequate crew size to complete installation promptly
Phased Delivery Option:
For large projects, request multiple deliveries
Smaller quantities delivered as installation progresses
Eliminates on-site storage concerns
We accommodate phased delivery at no additional cost for large orders
Site Preparation Before Delivery:
Have Ready:
Installation area fully prepared (graded, soil ready)
Irrigation or hoses available for post-installation watering
Tools and equipment on-site
Crew ready to begin immediately
Shaded storage area identified (if any delay anticipated)
Avoid:
Delivering before site is ready
“We’ll prep while sod sits on pallets” (recipe for disaster)
Assuming weekend or weather delays won’t matter
Our Recommendations:
Best Practice:
Complete all site preparation before ordering sod
Schedule delivery for day of installation
Have crew ready to begin installation immediately
Complete installation same day
Result: No storage concerns, optimal sod quality
If Storage Necessary:
Identify shaded, well-ventilated location before delivery
Arrange for watering 2-3 times daily
Communicate with us about expected delay
Plan to install within 24 hours maximum
Monitor sod condition closely
We’re Here to Help:
If you encounter storage challenges:
Call us immediately: We can advise on salvaging sod or rescheduling
Don’t assume it’s fine: Sod deteriorates faster than most people expect
Communication is key: We’d rather adjust delivery than have project fail
Contact Greenhorizons if you have questions about sod storage, delivery timing, or encounter unexpected delays. We’ll work with you to ensure your project gets fresh, high-quality sod for successful installation. Contact Us Today
Greenhorizons Sod Farms has been serving large-scale commercial projects for 40+ years in Southern Ontario. If you need installation services for projects ranging from 15,000 – 20,000 sq.ft. and above, feel free to reach out to us and request a quote. We have specialized equipment for commercial grade sod installations and we’d be happy to help you achieve your design dreams with our experienced team of installers.
Contact Us Today
No, Greenhorizons does not provide custom-cut sod for specialty shapes, but our expert team can provide all the installation techniques to accommodate unique landscape features. Our standard rectangular sod pieces can be adapted to fit any landscape with the proper installation techniques.
We do offer “big roll” harvesting for large commercial projects, so be sure to ask us about that during your consultation.
Installation Solutions for Complex Shapes:
Circular Features:
Small Circles (Under 10 feet diameter):
Install standard rectangles radiating from center
Cut pieces to fit curved edge
Pattern creates minimal waste
Field cutting during installation
Large Circles (Over 10 feet diameter):
Standard installation with curved perimeter cuts
Install in concentric rings if desired aesthetic
Less waste due to larger radius
Best Practice:
Calculate quantity with 10-15% extra for curved cuts
Skilled installer can minimize waste through strategic layout
Organic Curves:
Flowing Edge Conditions:
Install standard pieces to approximate curve
Trim edges to final design line
Sharp utility knife creates clean curves
More gradual curves = less waste
Serpentine Patterns:
Pre-plan layout to optimize piece placement
Stagger seams perpendicular to curves
Minimize small cut pieces
Geometric Patterns:
Squares and Rectangles:
Custom dimensions can reduce cutting during installation
Precise measurements critical
Consider standard piece size when designing dimensions
Diagonal Patterns:
Standard pieces installed on diagonal
More complex installation
Skilled crew required
Account for additional waste (15-20%)
Irregular Shapes:
Around Existing Features:
Trees, boulders, sculptures, fountains
Use template or pattern for complex cuts
Allow extra material for fitting
Integrated with Hardscape:
Between pavers, steppers, or grid systems
Precise cuts required
Installation complexity increases
Design Recommendations:
Optimize for Installation:
Consider Standard Dimensions:
Design lawn areas as multiples of standard piece size where possible
Reduces cutting and waste
Faster installation
Lower cost
Simplify Complexity:
Very tight radii (under 12 inches) difficult with sod
Consider alternative materials (groundcover, gravel) for extremely small or intricate areas
Save sod for functional lawn areas
Edge Details:
Metal, stone, or concrete edging provides clean termination
Define exact sod boundary
Prevents grass spreading into beds
Eases maintenance
Balance Aesthetics and Practicality:
Design Intent vs. Installation Reality:
Intricate patterns beautiful in concept
Installation complexity increases cost and time
Maintenance challenges over time
Weigh visual impact against practical considerations
We’ll Be Honest:
If a design will be very difficult to install
If alternative approach achieves similar aesthetic with less complexity
If maintenance will be problematic
Our goal: Successful project that looks great and performs well
Installation Complexity Factors:
Crew Skill Level:
Simple rectangular areas: Any crew can install
Moderate complexity (gentle curves, some cuts): Experienced crew recommended
High complexity (tight curves, patterns, multiple features): Skilled specialists required
Time Requirements:
Simple installation: 500-800 sq ft per person per day
Moderate complexity: 300-500 sq ft per person per day
High complexity: 200-300 sq ft per person per day
Affects project timeline and labor costs
Coordination with Installers:
Pre-Installation Meeting:
Review design intent with installation crew
Discuss complex areas and approach
Ensure crew understands precision requirements
Identify potential challenges
During Installation:
Architect/designer site visits at critical junctures
Verify complex cuts before proceeding
Address field conditions that differ from plans
Ensure design intent realized
Alternative Approaches:
When Sod May Not Be Best:
Very Small Areas (Under 50 sq ft):
Consider plugs or seed
Sod may be wasteful
Groundcovers may be better choice
Extremely Irregular Shapes:
Groundcovers conform better
Less waste
May be more cost-effective
Vertical Applications:
Sod not suitable for walls or steep slopes beyond 1.5:1
Consider alternative green wall systems
We’ll Recommend Honestly:
If another material is more appropriate
If design modification would improve installation
How to achieve design intent practically
Communication Throughout Process:
Design Phase:
Discuss unique requirements early
Review feasibility and approach
Provide input on specifications
Pre-Construction:
Confirm understanding of requirements
Address questions from contractors
Review submittals and layout
During Construction:
Available for consultation
Troubleshoot field conditions
Support quality installation
The Bottom Line:
Most unique landscape shapes are achievable with standard sod and skilled field cutting. We’ll work with you to determine the best approach for your specific design.
Contact Greenhorizons to discuss your unique landscape features. We’ll review your plans, recommend the best approach, and ensure your design vision is successfully realized. Contact Us Today
Yes, Greenhorizons provides complimentary site consultations for landscape architects and designers working on large residential estates, commercial developments, and public projects. Our technical team visits sites to assess conditions, review design concepts, and provide practical recommendations that support successful sod installation.
Site Consultation Services:
Pre-Design Site Assessment:
What We Evaluate:
Soil conditions (type, compaction, drainage, pH)
Sun and shade patterns throughout the day
Existing vegetation and site ecology
Topography and drainage patterns
Access for delivery vehicles and equipment
Site constraints and challenges
What We Provide:
Sod variety recommendations based on actual conditions
Identification of challenging areas (poor drainage, deep shade, slopes)
Suggestions for soil amendments or preparation
Realistic expectations for establishment and performance
Preliminary quantity estimates
When to Schedule:
Early design phase before finalizing plans
Helps inform design decisions
Prevents specifying inappropriate materials
Identifies issues before they become problems
Geographic Service Area:
Complimentary Consultations:
Hamilton, Cambridge, London, Niagara, Oakville and surrounding area (within 30 km)
Burlington, Oakville, Stoney Creek, Ancaster, Dundas
Projects with significant sod quantities (typically 5,000+ sq ft)
Extended Area Consultations:
Greater Toronto Area, Niagara Region, other Southern Ontario
Available for substantial projects
May involve nominal travel fee for distant locations
Contact us to discuss
Common Site Visit Findings:
Soil Issues:
Compacted subsoil requiring loosening
Heavy clay needing amendment
Poor topsoil quality or insufficient depth
pH outside optimal range
Drainage Problems:
Low areas collecting water
Insufficient slope away from buildings
Lack of positive drainage
Need for subsurface drainage
Shade Limitations:
Deeper shade than designer anticipated
Need for shade-tolerant varieties or alternative groundcovers
Tree pruning recommendations
Access Constraints:
Delivery truck can’t reach planned staging area
Equipment access limitations
Need for alternative delivery approach
Timing Considerations:
Installation timing may not align with project schedule
Seasonal challenges not initially considered
Need for phased approach
Slope Stability:
Steeper than expected, requiring staking or erosion control
Grading issues to address before sod installation
Potential for erosion during establishment
Collaboration, Not Criticism:
Our Approach:
Supportive, collaborative partnership
Respect for designer’s vision and expertise
Constructive suggestions, not criticism
Goal: Help you succeed
We Understand:
Designers balance many considerations beyond sod
Plans evolve and sites change
Practical constraints affect ideal solutions
Our role: Provide turfgrass expertise to inform decisions
Beyond Sod – Holistic Perspective:
We Consider:
How sod integrates with overall landscape
Sustainability and maintenance realities
Client use patterns and expectations
Long-term performance and satisfaction
We’ll Suggest:
When alternative groundcovers might be better
What sod varieties to choose for optimal performance
How to balance aesthetics and practicality
Maintenance approaches to preserve design intent
Investment in Project Success:
Site consultations take time, but they prevent problems, optimize designs, and ensure beautiful results. For significant projects, this investment is worthwhile for everyone—designer, contractor, client, and supplier.
Let us support your next project with a complimentary site consultation. Contact Greenhorizons to schedule a visit and tap into our decades of sod expertise for your landscape architecture projects. Contact Us Today
Specify positive drainage with minimum 2% slope away from structures, well-drained soil, and no standing water after rain events. Proper drainage is critical for sod survival. Even the best sod will fail in saturated conditions. Address drainage during design to prevent costly failures.
Fundamental Drainage Requirements:
Surface Drainage:
Minimum Slope:
2% slope (2 feet per 100 feet) minimum away from buildings
3-5% slope optimal for most lawn areas
Steeper slopes (up to 10-15%) acceptable if not causing erosion
Flat areas (under 1%) prone to puddling—avoid if possible
Grading Principles:
Grade away from structures in all directions
Create positive drainage to swales, drains, or natural discharge points
Avoid creating low spots or depressions
Crown center of large flat areas to shed water to edges
Ensure water doesn’t flow onto neighboring properties
Seasonal Considerations (Ontario):
Spring:
High water table from snowmelt
Saturated soil conditions common
Good test of drainage adequacy—observe wet areas in April/May
Identify problem zones before installation
Summer:
Lower water table
Soil dries out
Drainage less apparent but still critical
Heavy summer storms test surface drainage
Fall:
Rainfall increases
Saturated conditions return
Good establishment period if drainage adequate
Poor drainage becomes evident
Winter:
Freeze-thaw cycles
Ice accumulation in low spots
Poor drainage leads to ice damage on turf
Spring reveals winter drainage issues
Long-Term Performance:
Well-Drained Sod:
Deep, healthy root systems (6-12 inches)
Drought tolerance
Disease resistance
Winter survival
Long lifespan
Poorly Drained Sod:
Shallow roots (2-4 inches)
Stress and decline
Disease susceptibility (fungal issues)
Winter damage
Requires replacement
The Investment in Drainage Pays Off:
Proper drainage costs more initially
Prevents sod replacement (much more expensive)
Ensures long-term landscape success
Protects client investment
Supports design longevity
Designer Resources:
We Provide:
Drainage assessment during site visits
Recommendations for problem areas
Coordination with civil engineering on complex drainage
Review of grading plans for sod areas
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
Assuming “it drains fine” without testing
Specifying sod in areas with known drainage problems
Inadequate topsoil depth over poorly draining subsoil
Grading that creates low spots or directs water poorly
Contact Us:
Drainage challenges? Questions about specifications? Contact Greenhorizons for consultation on drainage requirements for your sod installation. We’ll help ensure your design includes proper drainage for long-term sod success. Contact Us Today