How To Prepare To Beautify Your Yard With Sod
Posted on: 14 May 2018
Having sod installed may seem like an easier, quicker way to beautify your yard. However, that does not mean that all you have to do is contact a company for sod services and leave it at that. You will need to take the time to properly prepare for the installation or the money you spend will be in vain. Here are some tips to make sure that after the sod team leaves, you will still have a great looking lawn next week.
Clear the Area
The most important thing you will do to prepare your yard for sod is to clear it of everything. Remove any stones that are larger than 2 inches in diameter and pull all weeds and grass currently growing, It is a good idea to spray the entire area with a pre-emergent herbicide to prevent any seeds in the ground from sprouting and growing up through your new lawn.
Till the Area
Now that you have nothing growing in the yard area where you want to place the sod, it is time to till the soil. This will loosen the dirt and put some air into it so the roots in the sod will not have to struggle to break into the ground. You want the roots to take hold in your yard easily and quickly, so it will grow strong and healthy.
Have the Soil Tested
Once you have established the area, take a sample of the soil to the county extension office for testing. They can tell you what needs to be added to the yard to create a good growing medium for the type of sod you are having installed. Go ahead and buy the fertilizer or additives required and spread them over the area.
Till in the Additives
After applying any additives according to the directions you received from the extension office, till the whole area again. This will mix the additives in properly so the roots will receive the proper nutrients and have he correct pH throughout the yard.
Keep in mind, once the sod has been placed, you should not walk on it for a few days. In addition, you will need to water it according to the instructions the sod company recommends. Failure to properly prepare for the sod and maintain it will only lead to a lawn of dead grass. While sod will give you a lush lawn quickly, you still need to maintain it as you would if you had broadcast seed across the area. Contact a service, like Midwest Turf, for more help.
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