Few things add more curb appeal to a residence or location than a thick, rich, and healthy lawn. But not always does a person managed to start out with just that. Often times, especially when dealing with new construction, it is necessary for us to give Mother Nature a little helping hand in establishing that beautiful turf we’re all so proud of. Below are some helpful tips on establishing that healthy lawn whether it’s by applying grass seed or laying pre-grown sod.

Soil Preparation: We recommend prior to starting your sodding project, that you have your soil tested for its pH, are rather how acidic or alkaline you soil is. Turf grows and develops best when the soils pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. Low soil pH can create a toxic condition known as chlorosis, or a yellowing of the turf. If left untreated, nectrotic (dead spots) spotting of the grass blade can develop. This leads to stunted growth which can take one or several growing seasons to correct. Having a soil sample taken can prevent these conditions by allowing you to know the soils current pH and make proper adjustments by the addition of lime. Always apply the proper amounts of lime as directed in your soil sample. Additionally, having your soil tested for its levels of phosphorus and potassium will determine if the levels are adequate for good root development. You can have your soil tested by Texas A&M University for a small fee. The following forms should be properly filled out and sent in with your soil sample, and will also instruct you on the proper way to take your soil sample.

Texas A&M Soil Sample Information Form

Taking the time to insure that your soil is properly prepared is probably the most critical step in establishing that healthy lawn. Soil gives your turf a solid base to develop, much like a properly constructed slab for a new home. It should be well prepared and graded prior to applying any seed or sod. Ridding your soil of low spots now will keep water from standing in areas after your sod as been laid, which can lead to fungus development. The use of a tiller will break up heavily compacted soil, and it’s a perfect time to add amendments such as lime, phosphorus, potassium or topsoil if needed. Grades should be set as to gradually slope away from the home or building.

A sod roller can be rented from most home centers or rental companies, and should be used to firm it up. Also, moistening your soil by watering it prior to installation is also recommended.

Laying your Sod: Once the sod has been delivered, you should make sure the sod is laid within 48 hours. Heat is trapped inside the sod from when it was cut, and can burn and kill the grass if not laid with this time frame.

Sod pieces should be laid in a brick like pattern with staggered seams. Avoid leaving gaps between the sections of sod when installing. Excess can be trimmed with a sharp machete or large knife. Once you have the sod installed, tamp or roll the sod to eliminate the gaps between the sod and the soil. A quality turf food may be watered into the soil at the recommended rate, and then followed up with a thorough watering.

Applying your Seed: Distribute the grass seed evenly over the soil. One way to do this is to apply half the amount of seed to be applied in crossways pattern, and then the remaining grass seed at a right angle to the first. This helps to ensure an even coverage.

Seed should be applied with a broadcast spreader capable of delivering a measured dispersement rate. Avoid applying seed by hand as it may result in inconsistent density of the grass. Once seeded, we recommend covering the seed with one or two bales of straw to help retain moisture in the soil. Once the seeds have germinated, which should take place within 10 days to a weeks time, do not attempt to remove the straw. The decaying straw will help to replenish your soils Nitrogen content which is essential for turf growth.

Watering: Consistent watering of the sod is critical for proper root development. Deep root development should establish within a growing season, but may take as long as two seasons to fully develop. Water sufficiently enough to keep your soil moist but not soggy. We recommend not letting the sod dry out between watering for at least the first two weeks. This can be checked by lifting up the edges of the sod and checking underneath. Watering should be performed twice daily (early morning & late evening) for the first 3 days, then once per day for the next two weeks. After that, watering may be reduced to every two days for the next two weeks. Weekly watering, insuring water penetration of 3 – 4 inches, should be performed at least once per week thereafter. Our “Watering Tips” section can give you recommendations on proper watering techniques for a healthy lawn.

When to Seed / Sod: Seed should be applied in late summer and early fall making sure to allow for proper germination of the grass seed prior to the colder winter temperatures. Seed can also be applied during the spring months prior to the hot summer temperatures reaching their peaks. Summer seeding can be performed, but a very strict watering regimen should be followed during these times.

Sod can be applied from spring through early fall. Insure that proper root development has taken place prior to the colder weather of late fall and winter. This will insure that your new lawn is properly established prior to the first frost. We do not recommend laying sod during the winter dormant months since the sod may die prior to root development due to the slow growth rate.

Space Planting: Space planting or checker boarding is the planting of sprigs or small sections of grass at regular intervals. The proximity of each sprig from one another will determine the amount of sprigs needed. Likewise, the closer the sprigs are planted to one another, the more sprigs will be needed and the faster the lawn will establish and fill in. Sprigs should be planted at 2” depths with a portion of the sprig extending up above the soils surface.

Mowing / Maintenance: Once the sod has rooted, usually within the first 3 weeks, the sod can be mowed and maintained as you would any other lawn. Mowing is recommended on a weekly basis