A lush green lawn you desire can be achieved through seeding or installing sod. While seeding a lawn is a traditional method of establishing a lawn, it does take time to for grass to germinate and grow. Installing sod results in an established lawn appearance once the sod is laid. Proper preparation is essential so the sod can be installed in a timely manner and will have the proper foundation to support growth.
Spray any existing weeds in the lawn area with glyphosate herbicide. Mix 3 ounces of herbicide per 1 gallon of water in a garden sprayer, or mix it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Shake to mix thoroughly and spray the mixture on weeds. Allow several days for the herbicide to kill the weeds.
Till the lawn area to a depth of at least 6 inches. Rake out clumps of grass and weeds. Continue tilling the area to break up any larger clumps of dirt. Work the tiller back and forth, first in one direction and then in another to effectively till the soil.
Collect a soil sample and perform a soil test with a purchased test kit or send it to a lab for testing. Consult with the extension office in either case once you have results to determine the best fertilizer for your lawn. At a minimum, a starter fertilizer in a ratio such as 1-2-1 should be used at a rate of 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
Amend the pH of the soil if necessary by adding limestone to raise the pH. As a rule of thumb, apply 50 pounds of limestone per 1,000 square feet if a soil test is not available.
Apply 3 inches of peat moss or compost mixed at a 1:1 ratio with top soil to the lawn if the soil is heavy clay or compacted. Incorporate the organic material, lime and fertilizer into the soil with a tiller to a depth of 6 inches. Smooth the lawn with a rake and pack the soil with a lawn roller.
Lay down the first piece of sod, along a straight edge on one side of the lawn area such as a driveway or sidewalk. Firmly place sod edges and ends close together and avoid gaps that can lead to drying and an uneven appearance. Alternate sod seams in each row to stitch the sod together. Use a knife to cut sod to shape in corners and along uneven landscaping if necessary.
Roll the sod with a lawn roller. Avoid walking on the sod any more than necessary to prevent shifting and potential air pockets. Apply 1 inch of water to the newly installed sod every two to three days. Water more frequently, if needed, to keep the roots moist. After the grass roots begin to grow and adhere to the soil, change the water routine to supplement rainfall or every four to seven days to moisten the top 5 inches of the lawn.
Things You Will Need
- Glyphosate herbicide
- Garden hose
- Garden sprayer
- Soil test lit
- Lawn roller
- Carefully measure the lawn area ahead of time and arrange for the right amount of sod to be delivered when you are ready to begin installation. Avoid letting sod sit for any length of time if possible as it can dry out quickly.
- Apply 1 inch of water within 30 minutes after installing the sod to prevent drying and potential damage.
- Choose a time when the threat of frost has passed to install the sod. Consider installing the sod in early spring to allow sufficient growth before weather turns hot.
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