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Schedule your turf delivery after preparation 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.
Step 1 - Fertility and Soil Preparation
Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slopes and swells consistently running away from foundations to prevent puddling or ponding.  Next, to provide the best environment for turf survival and growth, a site specific soil sample should be taken. Soil Sample Instructions
Most states provide a soil testing service through County Extension Offices. A sample can be taken and analyzed. Within 7-14 days a prescription for your specific soil and grass variety will be mailed to you. Incorporate the prescribed amount of fertilizer and lime as needed to a depth of 3 to 4 inches. Smooth the soil, removing rocks, roots, and large clods. Keep the soil grade 3/4 inch below sidewalks and driveways. Lightly water the prepared area to settle the soil and provide a moist base for the turf.
Step 2 – Turf Installation
Install your turf immediately upon delivery. Begin watering the lawn within 30 minutes of installation (avoiding plant wilting). Turf is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to survive.
Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Keep sod in a straight line to avoid cracks/gaps along edge. 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 knife, spade shovel, or machete to trim corners and along boundaries. Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges as they tend to dry out. On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope. For curved lines, use a garden hose to define the area and as an edge to trim against.
To prevent indentions or air pockets, avoid repeated walking or kneeling on the turf just after watering. After installation, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact and remove air pockets. (optional)
Step 3 – Watering
Give your new lawn at least 1/2 inch of water within 30 minutes of installation. With new sod water frequently (2-3 times per day) keeping the surface moist. Water turf daily or as needed to keep it moist and until firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Once rooted, less frequent and deeper watering should begin. Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering. Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry or windy periods. |
