Tips For Successful Sod Installation
Sod provides you with a simple, straightforward solution for creating the lawn that you have always envisioned. You won't have to worry about spreading messy grass seeds or trying to ensure adequate straw coverage to keep the birds from harvesting those seeds. Instead, you have a lush, green lawn right away. Here are a few things that you need to understand to help you get the best possible results from your sod installation.
The Preparation Stage Is Important
You might be tempted to take shortcuts in the preparation for your sod delivery. After all, a few rocks in the soil shouldn't be a big deal, right? However, the preparation process is more important than you think when you buy sod. Since the grass is already growing and the root system already exists, you need loose, well-nourished, and moist soil for your sod to properly root. If you cut corners on that preparation process, you may find that the sod doesn't establish itself the way that it should, leaving you with dead patches.
It Needs Care Right Away
The first few days and weeks following sod application are the most critical for the success of the root establishment. Your sod will need lots of water, especially in the first couple of days. Your landscaper will provide you with a recommended watering schedule, but you can expect to water your sod a couple of times a day, at least for the first week. If the weather is particularly hot and dry, you'll need to water more frequently.
You Need The Right Variety
Sod comes in many varieties and you need to give careful consideration to the choice for your lawn. Make sure that you consider your property's sunlight, water, and temperature trends when you're choosing the sod for your lawn. That way, you don't pick a cool climate variety if you live somewhere tropical, for example. Choosing the right type of sod is important for successful grass establishment.
Be Patient About Mowing
It's usually best to wait at least a month, if not longer, before you mow your sod for the first time. The longer you wait, the better the chances for your grass to thrive. Your landscaper can tell you what signs to look for and will probably advise that you don't take more than about a quarter of the height the first time you cut.
These are some of the most important things to consider when you're ready to install sod for the first time. Talk with your landscaper for more tips regarding sod installation.