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Design & Planning
“Do you provide samples for client presentations and design mockups?”
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
“What sod specifications should I include in my landscape plans?”
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
“Can you match sod varieties to specific architectural aesthetics?”
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
“How do I specify sod for LEED-certified or sustainable projects?”
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
“What’s the best way to store sod on-site between delivery and installation?”
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
Construction & Installation
“Can you provide custom cutting for unique landscape shapes and features?”
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
“Do you offer site consultations for large residential or commercial designs?”
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
“What drainage requirements should I specify for sod installation?”
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