Frequently Asked Questions and Information

Sod vs. Seed

Today we expect convenience, efficiency and quality in our products. Buildings are going up almost overnight and attractive landscaping is installed in hours. Why wait 1 or 2 years for a new lawn to struggle to maturity when you can have a beautiful sod lawn compliment your buildings right now. A high quality sod lawn can be conveniently installed in hours, at a surprisingly low cost.

Blue Ribbon Sod Farm offers a variety of grass blends to suit various needs such as climate, amount of usage, and sun and shade conditions. Cultivated turf allows you to enjoy a lawn of instant beauty and maturity without the usual time-consuming hassles of seeding.

Immediately controls erosion, mud and dust
Can be installed most of the year
Works where seed, sprigs or plugs would fail

Sod helps our environment:
Releases oxygen and cools the air
Controls pollution and reduces soil erosion
Purifies and replenishes our water supply
Provides a natural, comfortable and safe setting for everyone

Can I do it myself?
You don’t need to be a landscaper to install sod!

Use the 5 R’s:

• Rotary till compost or other organic matter (3.5 cubic yards per 1000 square feet of area) into existing soil. This will help prevent compaction and help the soil retain moisture.
• Rake out any lumps or rocks. Soil should be of a fine consistency.
• Roll the ground with a roller to prevent settling. Rollers can be rented inexpensively.
• Roll out the sod, staggering the ends.
• Roll over the sod with a roller, ensuring good root-to-soil contact.
• BASIC STEPS TO A BEAUTIFUL LAWN

STEP 1 – Measuring and Ordering

With a tape, measure the area of your planned lawn. Make a sketch of the area including the length, width and any unusual features. We will be happy to determine the amount of sod you will need. Schedule your order for delivery of turf after preparatory work is completed and you are ready to install. Prompt installation on the day of delivery is crucial to a strong beginning for your lawn. For more help on measuring your lawn click here.

STEP 2 – Soil Preparation

For best results, rototill or spade the area to a depth of 4-6 inches. Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slope away from foundations, etc. Rake in fertilizer, peat, compost, etc. as needed to a depth of 3-4 inches. Rake and smooth the soil removing rocks, roots and large clods. Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. Keep the grade 1-inch below sidewalks or driveway. Water the area to settle soils and provide a moist base for sod. Watering 6 inches is recommended for most soils.

STEP 3 – Turf Installation

Install your lawn immediately upon delivery. In hot weather, protect unlaid turf by placing stacks in the shade, covering with moist burlap sacking and/or sprinkling. Begin laying sod along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners, etc. Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges, as they will not retain moisture. On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope. After installing, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact and to remove air pockets. (Less traffic on newly laid sod means less air pockets and indentations)

STEP 4 – Watering

Give your new lawn at least 1 inch of water within 1/2 an hour of installation. Water daily or more often, keeping sod moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Gradually, less frequent but deeper watering will be required. Water areas near building more often where reflected heat dries the turf.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a sod lawn less work?
Yes. A professional sod lawn needs no special care because it is already a healthy, mature lawn when installed, whereas a sprigged or seeded lawn requires years of nurturing to reach maturity. After installation, just water, mow and fertilize as needed for a healthy, green carpet of grass.

Where can I use sod?
Sod can be installed practically anywhere. It’s often used to stop soil erosion and water pollution on slopes where rain would wash away both seed and sprigs.

Can sod withstand heavy usage?
Certainly! Sod establishes itself quickly. In a couple of weeks, it’s ready for full use.

When can I install a sod lawn?
Sod has revolutionized the lawn business. Now you can install a sod lawn anytime during the year when the ground can be tilled. There is no need to wait for the “right” season to put in your lawn.

Is sod a good investment?
Yes. It’s the only way to go from bare dirt to lush, green lawn in just hours. It’s relatively inexpensive to use, increases the value of your property significantly, and even more so aesthetically.

How will sod affect our environment?
Sod cools and cleans the atmosphere by reflecting the sun’s heat and absorbing noises, carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. An average front lawn has the cooling effect of 70 tons of air conditioning.

How much fertilizer should I use?
Fertilizer will depend on climate, sod type and soil. For fertilizer and maintenance requirements, consult your sod dealer.

How often do I have to mow?
Mow often, generally removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height at a mowing. Keep your mower blade sharp. Consult your dealer for mowing recommendations for your type of lawn.