Tips for Planting Lawn Sod

Local turf farms specialize in the varieties of grasses best suited for your local growing conditions. Most lawn sod installations require large quantities of sod, and most turf farms offer delivery options. Schedule the delivery to minimize the storage time before planting, and store the sod out of any direct sun to prevent it from drying out.

A good lawn needs good soil and this is especially important when laying down sod. Spread a layer of quality topsoil, raking it out to an even layer at least three inches deep (six inches is better). Use a soil test to measure the PH level of the topsoil, and then amendment the soil as necessary. Add a slow release fertilizer, tilling it into the topsoil while raking out any rocks and stones.

Dampen the raked topsoil with a light spray of water. Do not over water the topsoil, and avoid creating puddles or turning the top layer of dirt into mud. A very light spraying of water will increase the contact between soil and the new lawn sod.

Lay out the sod in straight rows (green side up!). Butt the edge of one section of sod right up against the next section, eliminating any gaps between the pieces of sod. Gaps between the pieces of lawn sod will accelerate evaporation, drying out the edges and potentially killing the sod.

Keep the rows of lawn sod as straight as possible, and overlap any obstructions such as curving walkways or planter beds. Use a sharp utility knife equipped with a razor blade to cut through the sod for fitting around curves, trees and other obstructions. Press the cut edges firmly against the soil, increasing the contact between the sod and the soil.

Position the next row of sod directly against the first row, butting the sides of the sections tightly against each other to eliminate gaps and preventing the edges of the lawn sod from drying out. Stagger the seams of sod sections in adjoining rows, again to minimize exposure of the edges. Continue laying out the sod, cutting around obstacles until the yard is covered completely with the new sod lawn.

Use a lawn roller, essentially a water-filled drum, to roll out the newly laid sod lawn. Lawn rollers are available for rent from many home centers and tool rental centers.

Rolling the sod increases the contact between the sod roots and the topsoil, and reduces air pockets which can dry out the sections of lawn sod.

Water the new lawn deeply and thoroughly to prevent the new sod from drying out. Water the sod lawn every day for the first weeks to encourage new root growth, and then as often as necessary for the first month to keep the new sod lawn from drying out.

Keep off the newly planted lawn sod as much as possible during the first month to allow the root system to become firmly established. Wait until after the first month to mowing the lawn, using a sharpened blade and setting the blade as high as possible.

Updated for 2012!

The USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map is now interactive: Search using your zip code or click on your state to find your exact plant hardiness zone for your area.

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