sodding tips

Sodding tips from New England Turf

Prepare the surface to be sodded completely before taking delivery of the sod.
Order only what you can install each day.
As soon as the driver places the pallets of sod around the job site, begin laying your new lawn immediately.
Lay down the top pieces of sod on the pallets since these are the first to dry out on warm sunny days.
Start watering 20 minutes after the first strip is laid. As the sod is laid sprinkle it lightly to keep it from drying out on hot days.
Immediately after the sod is installed soak it thoroughly so that water penetration in the soil reaches a depth of 4 to 6 inches deep.
Pull back a corner of the turf and push a screwdriver or other sharp tool into the soil. It should push easily and have moisture along the first 3-4 inches, or you need to apply more water.
Make absolutely certain that water is getting to all areas of your new lawn. Corners and edges are easily missed by sprinklers and tend to dry out faster than the center of your lawn.
Infrequent and deep watering is preferred to frequent and shallow watering because the roots will only grow as deeply as it’s most available water supply.
Measure the amount of water you are applying to your lawn. Knowing that 600 gallons of water per 1000 sq.ft. equals one inch of water will help you calculate the timer settings your lawn will require.
Be prepared to mow your new lawn in 6 to 7 days. Set your mower at a cutting height of 2" to 2 1/2".
Once the sod is established after 2 to 3 weeks water frequency may be reduced. Due to varying soil and climate conditions it is difficult to recommend a definite schedule. However a deep soaking once or twice per week is usually adequate.

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