Turf Installation & Care Guide

Your Path to a Beautiful, Healthy Lawn

Installing sod is the fastest way to enjoy a lush, green lawn. To ensure long-term success,
proper preparation and care are essential. Follow this step-by-step guide for best results.

 

Step 1: Measuring & Ordering

Measure Accurately: Use a tape measure to determine the total square footage of your

lawn area. Draw a simple sketch noting dimensions and any unique features.

Know Your Sod Size: Each sod piece covers 10 sq. ft. (2 ft. x 5 ft.). Pallets typically hold
500 sq. ft., but some may contain 600 sq. ft. based on availability. For custom orders,

we combine pallet sizes accordingly.

Schedule Wisely: Only schedule delivery once all prep work is complete and you’re ready to install.
Sod must be installed the same day it’s delivered to ensure survival and performance.

 

Step 2: Soil Preparation

Loosen the Soil: Rototill or dig to a depth of 4–6 inches.

Fix Drainage Issues: Grade the soil to slope away from buildings.

Amend the Soil: Test your soil and mix in recommended materials (fertilizer, lime, compost, etc.) to a depth of 3–4 inches.

Smooth & Firm: Rake thoroughly to remove rocks and debris. Lightly roll the soil (roller filled 1/3 with water)

to firm the surface and identify low spots. Maintain soil level about 1 inch below driveways or sidewalks.

Moisten Before Laying: Water the area to a 6-inch depth before installation to settle the soil and provide a moist base for the sod.

 

Step 3: Laying Sod

Install Immediately: Sod is a living plant—install it right away. Begin watering within 30 minutes of installation.

Protect in Heat: Shade uninstalled sod and keep it moist with burlap or light sprinkling.

Lay Strategically: Start along a straight edge (e.g., driveway or sidewalk). Place sod pieces tightly together without stretching.

Stagger joints like bricks; trim edges with a sharp knife. Lay strips across slopes, not down. Avoid placing narrow strips along edges
they dry out quickly.

Avoid Disturbance: Minimize walking or kneeling on fresh sod to prevent indentations and air pockets.

 

Step 4: Watering

Immediate Watering: Apply at least 1 inch of water within 30 minutes of installation.

Daily Watering for First 2 Weeks: Sod relies entirely on irrigation during establishment.
Water daily (preferably midday), ensuring at least 1 inch per day to keep roots moist.

Week 3 and Beyond: Once sod is firmly rooted (around 3 weeks), transition to deeper, less frequent watering.

Weather Considerations: Increase frequency during hot, dry, or windy periods. Pay special attention to sod near
buildings where reflected heat can dry it faster.

 

Caution: Use & Foot Traffic

Avoid Heavy Traffic for 3 Weeks: Light foot traffic is okay after installation, but delay regular use for at
least three weeks to allow for strong root development.

 

Ongoing Maintenance

Mowing: Wait until sod is rooted (about 3 weeks). Mow on the highest setting, removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height.

Always use sharp mower blades.

Fertilizing & Treatments: Application depends on your sod type, soil, climate, and local conditions. Consult a turf care specialist as needed.

 

Need Help?

We’re here to support your sod success! Contact our team for any additional advice or turf care questions.