Properly preparing a yard for the new sod installation is crucial. If there is any old Sod, it needs to be removed. If there is too much existing sod, it may be advisable to rent a sod cutter and use it to remove the existing sod.
Your irrigation system should be installed by experts prior to installing the sod to eliminate problems later. Local companies are prepared to help home and business owners determine what, if any, types of irrigation systems would best meet their needs. Please let us know if you need a referral, we are happy to recommend some great local companies.
Next, after your irrigation system is installed we recommend loosening at least the top six inches of dirt using a rototiller. We recommend adding Bulldog Black Magic Soil Enhancer this will help the new sod to become fully established faster. At that point, make sure the surface is level. Low spots should be filled and any high spots cut down to prevent pooling issues during heavy rains. Level surfaces also absorb water more evenly, meaning watering chores will be simplified. Now you’re ready to lay the new sod.
For efficiency, find the longest stretch where new sod will be installed and lay a single row of sod there first. Once that line is established, it’ll be easier to maintain straight, even rows and avoid waste at edges of the yard.
Make sure you use a good, sharp sod knife for trimming as needed.
Stagger the rolls of sod so end seams are not in a direct line.
Trim carefully around driveways, sidewalks, and flower beds to minimize waste and avoid having to patch areas later.
Remember that the faster the sod is installed the better.
While two people may be able to install around 1,000 square feet of sod in a day, more hands make the job easier.
Need help installing your SOD? For an additional Cost Bulldog Sod and our Utah sod installation experts can take care of everything for you so your lawn will look great. Please request this service if you are interested.
Once the sod is installed, the most important thing is to keep it WATERED. This is crucial to keeping your sod staying healthy. It takes time for root systems to develop, and the sod will require heavy watering until it is well established.
We also discuss this issue in our Sod Care Tips section, but it bears repeating here as well. Without water, some or all of the sod will suffer. Brown spots may develop, especially along edges. That means you can’t skip watering for even a single day, especially if we’re having one of our hot weather streaks.
Every lawn requires routine care to maintain its healthy appearance. Our Sod Care Tips section provides some good advice for maintaining a new or existing yard, but there are also other ways to enhance a yard’s look!
Our Fertilizer Application service is one of our best tips for your Utah lawn. It's a great choice for new sod and should to be applied with your first mowing. Bulldog Black Magic Fertilizer has a Jump Start Fertilizer specifically designed by us for new sod or seed. This will help promote root growth!
