Sod Installation

Measuring and ordering— Measuring the area that you plan to Turf - Length times Width equals Square Footage.

Order your Turf for delivery after the preparation work is completed and you are ready to install. Installation on the day of the delivery is a crucial factor to the beginning of your lawn.

Soil Preparation - Remove existing grass and weeds, loosen topsoil to a depth of 4-6 inches with a spade or rototiller. If topsoil is brought in, use a minimum of 3 inches and incorporate into existing soil. Level using a rake - incorporate if necessary dolomite or agriculture grade limestone at the rate of 50 lbs. per 1000 square feet. Rake and level simultaneously, roll the area lightly for a smooth surface. Prior to Turf installation apply starter fertilizer 10-20-20 or 5-10-10 following directions on bag.

Do Not use weed and feed type fertilizer when installing. Rake area lightly and roll with lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil surface and reveal low areas which need to be filled in. Keep the grade 1/2 inch below sidewalks and driveways. Water the area to settle the soil and provide a moist base for the turf.

Turf Installation - Install the turf immediately upon delivery. Water within 30 minutes upon installation. Remember Turf is a living plant that requires soil contact and moisture.

During hot weather protect the unlaid turf by placing stacks in the shade, covering with moist burlap sacks, and/or moisten.

Install turf along the longest straight line, such as a sidewalk or driveway. Stagger end seams as in bricklaying, keep snug against each other but not overlapping - without stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Use a sharp knife to trim. Avoid leaving small strips at the outer edges as the turf will not retain moisture. On the slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope using popsicle sticks to secure if necessary.

Roll the entire turf area after installation to improve soil/turf contact and remove air pockets.

To prevent indentations or air pockets avoid repeated walking or kneeling on the turf while it is being installed or just after watering.

Watering - Water within 1/2 hour of installation. Water daily or more often, keeping the turf moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Then less frequently and deeper watering should begin. Weather conditions dictate the amount and frequency of watering. Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods. Water areas near buildings more often where reflected heat dries the turf.

Mowing - Approximately 7 - 10 days from time of installation, mow 2 to 2 1/2 inches from the ground level with a sharp mower - never removing more than 1/3 of the blade at a time.