Saturday, July 27, 2013

How To Put In Sod Correctly

By Tyrone Alec


The Guide:

I was considering installing a new lawn using rolls of grass, and got to pondering about all the terms used for the ground cover. You can almost use the conditions, turf, sod, and lawn interchangeably, and most people would know what you indicate. But since I like to be somewhat right in my choice of words, I explored the difference between these terms. What are the conditions or manual in installing the sod effectively?

Sod dimensions - Whenever beginning your sod venture an individual must take into account all landscape structures and flower beds. Then, using a measuring wheel or tape measure, precisely measure the area to be sodded. Include 5% to this number to allow for reducing around structures & beds. This number signifies the square footage of sod you will need. If you are unsure most sod suppliers can aid you if you give them with an accurately marked drawing.

Soil Planning - Planning the base under your sod is crucial! As the grass grows the roots must be able to permeate into the soil. Hard surfaces protect against the growth of grass. Make certain all rocks, aged roots and grass are taken out from the installation area. Topping this with three inches of topsoil creates a good base. This functions well as the sod strips come with its own soil modification.The base area must be leveled to make sure sod will also be level. Using a appropriate grading rake will work best. For larger areas you may need to roll over the soil using sod roller. Rolling ensures that soil does not run or settle causing holes or gaps that will hinder sod growth. Sod preparation is everything when it comes to sod installation.

Obtaining sod - There are many sod suppliers to pick from (lawn and garden stores, sod growers and nurseries) but you should understand what you are searching for. Sod strips should be dense and at least 2 inches long. Look for a uniform green color with a network of roots on the bottom, with a moist soil base of at least 1". Sod strips should not tear or fall apart when handled. For large applications, we suggest sod shipping and delivery to reduce handling. Lay your own first strip of sod beginning in opposition to the edge of a flower bed, house, patio or any landscape border.

The subsequent row should overlap at the seam. Do not line up your seams! Stagger seams to steer clear of lines when sod grows in. Use a sod cutter (you can buy one at most lawn and garden stores) to cut along all borders and around landscape sprinkler heads. Keep all pieces on the side as you may need them to fill in as you work. During the first two weeks you should water for 45 minutes. This hefty watering helps to push roots down into soil.

Subsequent this, you should water it 20 to 30 minutes a day, depending on heat conditions. Everyone desires to know when it's good to do the first cut. Relying on the growth of the grass and if the roots started to grab it, it will determine when you can cu it. Test the area by carefully pulling back a part of sod. If the sod has rooted, you may do your first cut. Since your new lawn is in its infancy, it should be freshly mowed at a slow pace for the initial month.




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