Sod installation helps achieve a green, appealing lawn without waiting for grass seeds to sprout. The key to successful sod installation is its right preparation. It is important to prepare the ground before installation to ensure the new lawn roots deeply, grows evenly, and stays healthy for a long time.
This article will help you understand the essential steps to prepare the ground before sod installation to create a vibrant, healthy-looking lawn.
8 Easy Steps to Prepare for Sod Installation
Step 1: Choose the Right Site
It is important to assess site conditions before selecting a grass type. Check whether the site will have regular irrigation or be on its own. Decide whether you are ready to invest your time and effort in its care, as some grasses require more attention and maintenance to look appealing than others. Since each grass has its own pros and cons, it is important to research carefully before purchasing one. Make sure to choose a site that gets enough sunlight, has the right soil type, and has access to water to have a healthy, visually appealing lawn.
Step 2: Prepare the Site
Make sure the ground is fully prepared before laying new sod. While preparing, ensure that the area is free of weeds, smooth, and not tightly compacted. To achieve healthy root growth and a beautiful, even-looking lawn, it is important to properly prepare the site.
Step 3: Buy Quality Sod
It is important to purchase sod from a trusted and reputable supplier. To do that, check where the seller sources their grass from and whether they follow Sod Production Best Management Practices. Since quality sod is grown under good conditions, free of weeds and diseases, make sure the farm maintains and follows the same practices to keep its grass healthy. A little research beforehand may sound like additional work, but it will save you from future trouble and mishaps. Buy high-quality sod that is stronger, better-looking, healthier, and more durable.
Step 4: Conduct a Soil Test
Conducting a soil test before laying sod helps prevent frequent future maintenance. Take a small soil sample from the site you plan to install the sod and send it to a testing lab. The test will help you determine whether the soil needs additional nutrients or adjustments to support better grass growth. It is important to send the sample to the test lab at least 2 weeks before adding any soil treatments. This will ensure you have enough time to get results and prepare the ground accordingly.
Step 5: Get Rid of Existing Vegetation
Make sure to kill and remove the existing vegetation, weeds before planting new grass to prevent them from competing with the new healthy growth. Using glyphosate-based weed killer to destroy the entire plant and the roots is one of the best ways to perform this step. However, before using the weed killer, make sure to wear safety gear, such as gloves and a mask, to protect your skin and avoid spraying on hot or windy days.
Make sure to apply enough chemicals to cover the leaves without dripping. Since there are some rigid weeds that may require a second round after a week. Wait for a few days for the weeds and roots to completely die before moving ahead to the next step.
Step 6: Till the Soil & Vegetation
After killing and cleaning old vegetation, use a shovel or rototiller to dig about 3 to 4 inches deep, breaking up compact soil and large clumps. Repeat the process to achieve the desired output. Since moist soil is easier to dig, lightly water it to prevent it from getting hard. While not mandatory, tilling is recommended to improve soil structure.
Step 7: Rake Out the Dead Vegetation
After tilling the ground, remove the leftover weeds, grass, or dead plants from the site, as they can trap air pockets under the sod, causing it to dry out and die. Clean the surface thoroughly and smooth out the soil with a sturdy metal rake. You can also add extra topsoil to level the uneven surface and create a smooth base for laying new sod.
Step 8: Add Compost
In the last step, add compost to your new lawn for a nutrient-rich start, as it contains essential organic matter. It helps grass grow thicker and healthier than in plain topsoil. Use 1 cubic yard of compost for every 1,000 sq ft of sod, or 1 cubic foot for every 20 sq ft.
Conclusion!
Apart from these 8 steps, time and patience are the two most important things required for the preparation. Once the foundation is ready, the installation is easy. However, it is crucial to care for the land before and after installation to achieve a healthy, long-lasting result.
