Introduction
Old, neglected grass might need a replacement. Sometimes the best solution is a fresh start with new sod. A successful sod installation can instantly transform your lawn into a green and healthy space. However, to achieve this, it’s crucial to avoid common sod installation mistakes. Whether you’re planning to do this yourself or hire a professional, here are the top sod installation mistakes to avoid.
1. Purchasing Low-Quality Sod Rolls It might be tempting to purchase cheap sod to save costs, but it will cost you more in the long run. You’d need to spend hours maintaining your yard to get rid of weeds. High-quality sod rolls are easier to maintain and will give your lawn a fresh new look with minimal effort.
2. Not Using the Right Grass Type There are many types of grass, including Bermuda, Kentucky Bluegrass, Tall Fescue, and more. Each type has different growing requirements and thrives under distinct conditions. In Ontario, grass flourishes only if the correct variety is used. Popular types in Canada include Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, Fescue, and Canada Bluegrass, with Kentucky Bluegrass being the most popular.
3. Laying Sod at the Wrong Time Sod installation has its best and worst times. You can install sod anytime during the growing season, although spring and early autumn are ideal. Cool temperatures and occasional rain help sod quickly establish roots. The worst time to lay sod is mid-summer when the weather is dry and hot, requiring higher maintenance like irrigation.
4. Waiting More Than 24 Hours Between Harvesting and Installation Aim to lay the sod rolls the same day they’re delivered. Leaving sod exposed increases its temperature, which can kill it. Sod can sit for about 24 hours before it begins deteriorating, so schedule delivery in the morning of the installation day to finish the job without it drying out.
5. Failing to Prepare the Soil and Reach the Right pH Level Turf prefers a well-aerated base that’s slightly acidic. The ideal pH range is between 6.0 and 7.0. Anything higher or lower may result in unhealthy turf. You can test your soil with a lab test or a DIY kit from a garden center. Based on the results, use a spreader to apply the appropriate starter fertilizer and lime if needed.
6. Laying Sod on Rocks, Sticks, or Existing Turf Ensure no garbage, sticks, rocks, or existing turf are between the sod and the soil. The bottom of the sod must contact the soil directly to thrive. Also, avoid overlapping sod rolls when laying them down.
7. Covering Sprinkler Heads If you have an irrigation system, ensure sprinkler heads are uncovered. Installing sod on top of them will block them and could result in flooding when turned on. Lay the sod around the sprinkler heads, not on top of them.
8. Failure to Overseed Existing and Old Turf to Blend Colors When sod is installed next to old turf, the color difference can be noticeable. Overseeding the grass and the border where the new and old grass meet helps blend the colors, minimizing unwanted differences.
9. Ignoring Watering Instructions After harvesting, sod needs to regrow its roots in your yard. Keep the sod moist and provide sufficient water for it to thrive. Water new sod twice per day, in the morning and afternoon, for two weeks. After two weeks, ensure your lawn receives about 1.5 inches of water per week from rain or irrigation. Without rain, water your grass two to three times a day to maintain it.
10. Failing to Give Sod Time to Establish Wait with regular maintenance for a few days after installing new sod. Start mowing the grass about a month after installation. Grass needs time to establish itself, so wait until it grows to approximately 3.5-4 inches before mowing. Use a walk-behind mower for the first cut since new lawns are still fragile.
Final Thoughts
As with many things in life, preparing, installing, and maintaining sod takes time, but the rewards last longer. If you want to get it done right, speak to us and get a quote. For more information on sod or other landscaping topics, contact us today.
