Sod Installation

 Ground should be dry and free from foreign objects when installing sod. Start your lines at the longest baseline and continue from there. You should butt your ends together. You can stagger your seams similar to laying bricks. After sod has been laid, immediately begin watering. You can also roll sod to ensure that the sod has sufficient contact with the soil and to prevent air pockets

Watering

You can follow the watering guidelines below for a year-round successful lawn.

Water is the most important thing to do to ensure a lawn’s health. The first two weeks after installation, you need to water at least twice a day. You should water until both sod and the top soil is completely moist. The best times to water are the early morning and the late afternoon due to: the lack of evaporation that takes place, low winds that can blow your lawn dry, high humidity and morning/night-time dew that adds to the moisture. The watering process should take place for at least one hour for freshly laid sod. You can continue to water at these times during droughts as well.

During cooler months, watering twice a week is sufficient. In hotter conditions, your lawn should be watered three times a week. In extremely hot weather, your lawn may need to be watered as much as once a day. Make sure that you are watering enough to get the root system, which is well below the surface.

Mowing

Mowing is done on an as needed basis. You should choose mowing machines and cut heights based on the variety of the grass you choose. For grasses sold at Belle Sod, you can use any clipper styles. The optimal height for Centipede grass should be maintained at about two inches whereas the optimal height for St. Augustine grass should be maintained at approximately three inches. It is very important not to cut too low or scalp your grass. During one mowing session, you should not cut more that 1/3 of your sod’s height. Cutting too much makes grasses susceptible to injury and possible diseases. Remove clippings as needed to avoid thatch build up.

Weeds

Unfortunately, installing a grade A grass does not mean it will be the last time you see a weed or other foreign grass. Other grasses and weeds can grow through your turf without maintaining your lawn properly. Watering and mowing properly are very important in maintaining a lawn, but herbicides may also be needed. If you need help identifying or treating for weeds, consult with a landscaper licensed to treat with herbicides or you may find a remedy at your local lawn and garden store. You can also contact your local county agent.

Soil Ph

Sometimes soil ph levels can be off causing unhealthy lawns. This can be checked with a simple soil sample. Most Universities offer soil sample tests. The results should give a remedy for any improper ph level. Balancing ph levels are essential in a healthy lawn.