Soil Preparation

Soil Test the area or top soil that will be used for the area to be sodded first.

Ideally you should have at least 6 inches of top soil. Loosen the soil to a depth 4 to 6 inches with rototiller or tillage implement.

Eliminate drainage problems by having the soil slope away from the foundation or were water may puddle. Rake and smooth the soil; remove any debris or large dirt clods before lightly rolling the area to firm the soil surface.

Spread Sod Starter prior to sod installation.

Sod Installation

Start installation by laying sod along the longest straight line.

Butt and push edges together tightly; avoid gaps or stretching the sod.

Avoid kneeling on the sod while it is being installed or just after watering. It will take a few waterings for the soil to settle.

Lightly roll the new sod to improve sod to soil contact.

Watering the new Sod Installation

Water at least 1 inch of water within first ½ hour of installation.

Depending on weather, plan to water daily or more often to keep the sod moist (not saturated) for the first two weeks.

Check for root development; less frequent and deeper watering can begin after roots begin to develop.

CAUTION! Less frequent watering as the sod develops a root system is very important. Less frequent watering will encourage the roots to go deeper "looking" for moisture. Deeper roots mean a more stable turf.

Mowing

Begin mowing as required. For mature or newly establish lawns, avoid removing more than 1/3 of leaf blade per mowing

Core Aeration

Ideally within the first 3 to 6 month a deep core aeration of the newly laid sod will further enhance root development that will enable to the sod to finish establishment.

Ideal time to spread the potentially needed fertilizer based on Soil Test results.

Sod Fertilization Maintenance

Moderation is the key.