Spring is usually the most popular time to install sod. During the spring months, the sod requires little irrigation during and after it has been placed.

Fall is another popular time of year for sod installation because it requires only a fraction of the irrigation needed than in the summer.

A sprinkler system is advantageous for your lawn but is not necessary. A properly installed and maintained underground sprinkler system conserves water by directing it exactly where and when needed. Have your sprinklers installed and tested before ordering your turfgrass sod. If you don’t already have an irrigation system, hoses and mobile sprinklers can suffice.

Soil Preparation

• Kill weeds and grasses with a recommended herbicide, following directions on the bottle.
• Remove rocks and debris.
• Add organic soil amendment at a rate of 3 to 5 yards per 1000 square feet.
• Rototill to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Grading

• Work the soil, then level and smooth with a rake.
• If the soil seems loose, you can firm the soil by rolling it.
• The final grade should be ½ inch below walkways & driveways.
• Water soil lightly, just before installing sod.

Finally, spread the area with starter fertilizer at the rate recommended on the label (except during the summer months – this could create disease problems).

Sod Installation
Begin to install your sod immediately after delivery. Start laying your sod along a straight edge such as a walkway or driveway. Place joints tightly together without overlapping. Place stagger joints, similar to a row of bricks, and use a sharp knife to cut and shape around curves, trees, and borders.

Watering
Start watering within 30 minutes of installation, even if you haven’t laid out all the sod yet. This will prevent the sod from wilting and drying. Don’t ever let the sod dry out and kill the leader grassroots.

Keeping New Sod Moist
Keep your new lawn consistently moist – but not soggy – during the first 20 days after installation. Don’t let water pond. During hot weather, multiple waterings per day are necessary until the roots establish.