Plan it right. Grow it right.

Plan

The time spent planning a sod installation job from start to finish is more than recovered in saved labour hours, materials, and almost always results in a better overall job. Every aspect of the installation needs to be considered, from selecting the proper species or variety best suited to the requirements of the area, to making sure the sod is properly irrigated from the time it is installed.

Prepare

The soil on which the sod is laid impacts the final product in every way. Both the physical and chemical properties of the soil will potentially affect turf quality, and the contours of the prepared ground are reflected directly in the finished product — making grading an essential step to a desirable result. Grading should also allow for sufficient surface drainage to eliminate pockets of water and ice, ensuring better turf long term. Heavily compacted soil makes it more difficult for turf to put down roots, so loosen any soil that lacks tracks when driven across or appears "glazed" from the shaping blades.

Any size job can benefit from soil testing to provide appropriate fertilizer analysis and rates. Apply and incorporate a preplant fertilizer into the soil prior to installation so phosphorus can reach the roots where it's needed — applying fertilizer on top of the sod will delay uptake of vital nutrients. If topsoil has been removed from the jobsite, it may also be necessary to incorporate organic matter along with the fertilizer for the best long-term results.

Install

Time is critical when installing sod, especially during warm weather. Make sure the soil is not dry or too hot when the sod is installed, to prevent severe damage to the roots. Lay sod with ends staggered, sides and ends tight together, and with full width rolls to the edges of the area to maximize moisture retention. If a piece isn't quite long enough to cover the distance, substitute a larger piece rather than stretching the sod to fit, or installing a small piece that's more likely to dry out.

Rolling can help sod make better contact with the ground, but should be done before watering to prevent excessive compaction — and should never be used as a substitute for poor grading prior to installation. For best results, water the sod as soon as possible after it's laid down, preferably within the first fifteen minutes. To ensure the most rapid rooting, water just enough to keep the sod and soil beneath it moist until the sod has rooted into the soil.

Maintenance

Mowing should begin within one week after installation to prevent scalping, although this may vary depending on the type of turf. Walk the area first to determine if the soil is dry enough to carry the weight of the mower without creating ruts, and ensure no more than 1/3 of the leaf blade height is removed with each mowing.

Fertilizer should be applied on a regular basis. Sod is typically not fertilized just before harvesting, to prevent "heating" that could damage the turf. To maintain turf health, start the recommended fertility program for your selected sod type and site soil soon after installation, and avoid large amounts of quick-release fertilizer, as this will impede rooting.

Conclusion

Without a doubt, there is no substitute for planning. Taking the time to consider every aspect of the project from start to finish, and accounting for the time-sensitive components of sod installation, will reduce the stress on not only you, but your turf in the end.