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Yard Maintenance
Preparing the Ground Before Sod Placement
Preparing the Ground Before Sod Placement. Laying a new lawn can be an exciting time as you're anxious for the lush, green outdoor living space that's sure to come after laying sod. While laying sod isn't particularly difficult -- except maybe on your back -- you'll have a hard time keeping it lush and healthy if you skip preparing the soil first....
Laying a new lawn can be an exciting time as you're anxious for the lush, green outdoor living space that's sure to come after laying sod. While laying sod isn't particularly difficult -- except maybe on your back -- you'll have a hard time keeping it lush and healthy if you skip preparing the soil first. While some steps may seem time-consuming or unnecessary, remember that your new lawn will only be as healthy as the soil.
Controlling Weeds
Controlling perennial weeds is vital because it helps prevent these nuisance plants from taking over areas of your new lawn. There are a few ways of going about this, and chemical herbicides -- particularly glyphosate -- may be the least time-consuming. You will need approximately 20 days for glyphosate application prior to laying your sod. Make one application of glyphosate, covering the soil, then make another application 14 days later. Superior Sod recommends watering your soil to get any grass and perennial weeds to begin germinating in between applications to ensure all sprouted plants die before laying your sod. Wait three days after the second application before laying your sod.
Soil Test
Above anything else, a soil test will be remarkably useful when preparing your lawn for the new sod. Soil tests provide important information including the soil pH and nutrient levels. Many university extensions offer soil testing for a small fee, or you can find them at many garden centers and online retailers. Tests usually consist of taking small soil samples from several places in your yard and mixing them up, then sending a sample to the lab for the results.
Amendments
Add amendments based on your soil test results. Most turfgrass species do well in slightly acidic to neutral soil, so the pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0. The lab that performed your soil test should be able to give you recommendations on which amendments to use based on the results. Till the soil to a depth of approximately 8 inches, including any amendments you've added. Tilling will help give the roots of your sod a good medium for growing.
Drainage and Grading
If you've had problems in your previous lawn with drainage areas or if this is a brand new lawn, resolve drainage issues prior to laying your sod. Also, gently grade the lawn away from sidewalks, driveways and your home. If you have particularly wet areas in your yard, you may want to consider installing irrigation or a drainage system to remove excess water from the area. Using a lawn roller ensures a smooth soil surface.
