DIY SERIES: HOW TO LAY SOD THAT IS SEAMLESS AND STAYS PUT
Early autumn is a great time to lay sod; it's a little cooler outside, we still get some rain, and we still have some time before the freeze, so that the grass has time to establish in your yard. While laying down sod might seem pretty straightforward, there are a few critical steps required to ensure that your lawn is seamless and stays where you laid it. To kick off our DIY Series, here is everything you need to know to install seamless and stable sod in your landscape.
Measure Your Space to Determine How Much Sod You Need
Planning is the most vital step of a large landscape project. Ensure that you have your final design prepared before you install your sod so you can confidently tackle the project. Once you're satisfied with your plan, you can start measuring!
Split your yard into manageable segments that you can measure easily. Remember, length x width = area. Find your total square footage and divide that by nine, which is the standard square footage of a sod roll, to determine how many rolls you need. If you have your total square footage calculated, our team at Dammann's Garden Company can assist you.
Prepare Your Surface for Sod Installation
Creating a flat surface that's ready for the grass to take root in is essential for successful growth! Take this opportunity to add compost, fertilizer, or additives to your soil to create a rich environment for your grass.
Next, take some time to rake your yard and remove any leaves, branches, or other debris. Break up any compacted lumps in the soil and fill in any low spots that will create an uneven surface. Once your topsoil is level and smooth, mist it with some water, and start the installation process!
Time to Lay Your Sod!
Looking at your whole yard might seem a little overwhelming, but once you find a starting spot, laying sod becomes methodical and easy. Look for the longest straight edge in your space, such as your fence, and start there. It's easiest to leave the smaller areas for later!
Install Your Rows in a Staggered Brick Pattern
Lay the sod as close to the edge as possible so that your following rows have a good foundation. It is very important to stagger your sod rolls in a brick pattern for stability and coverage. Start your second row by cutting a roll in half and laying it next to your first row, then continue with full-length rolls until your second row is complete. Start your third with a full roll and continue this pattern so every row is staggered against the previous.
"Button" Your Rows Together
When lining up the rolls of sod next to each other, don't be afraid to get the pieces nice and tight together. Pinch the sides and pull your new piece close, like you're buttoning them together. They shouldn't overlap, but they should be snug together so that you don't have any exposed dirt patches. Not only is this better aesthetically, but it will also prevent your sod from migrating if there is heavy rainfall.
Adjust for Sloped Yards
If you have a sloped yard, lay your sod perpendicular to the slope so that it has a greater surface area holding it in place if there is rainfall. If you unroll sod down the slope rather than across it, it's more likely to slide down under rainfall. Sod staples can provide extra security.
Finishing Touches
Once the majority of the space is covered, you can focus on the small areas and the edges. Using a sharp blade, cut your sod to fit snugly against the edges of your space. After this, you'll likely have some scrap pieces of sod, but you can use them to fill any awkward spaces or accidental gaps.
In the same way that you pack or press a plant into the soil when you repot it, sod also needs compression into its new space! Use a lawn roller to help press out air pockets and ensure your sod is nice and cozy against its new topsoil. Roll over your lawn twice: first one way, then perpendicular.
Caring for Your Fresh Sod
Immediately watering after your DIY installation is crucial for the health of your sod! Make sure that the water penetrates through the sod and into the soil so that the roots have access to water. Keep off the sod during the first couple of weeks to give it time to root properly.
Water every morning for the first week, then scale back to every other day during the second week. In the third week, you can water once and continue a weekly routine after that. Once your grass grows past three inches, you can mow it and treat it like a normal lawn!
If you're looking for help with your sod installation in Indianapolis, feel free to visit us at Dammann's Garden Company. Our team of gardening professionals would be happy to help you figure out how much sod you need and make sure you're set up for success. Stay tuned for the next installment of our DIY Series!