• Step 1 - Measuring
& Ordering
With a tape, measure
the area of your planned lawn. Include these measurements on a sketch of
the lawn area, with the length, width and any unusual features. Elmsdale
Landscaping staff would be happy to determine the amount of sod you will
need from your sketch or measurements. Schedule your order for delivery of sod
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 new lawn.
• Step 2 - Soil
Preparation
For best results, roto-till
the space or area to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. Eliminate drainage problems
by having soil slope away from your foundation, etc. Soil testing will help
determine what amendments are required in the soil before installing your
sod. Then, rake in fertilizer, lime, peat moss, compost, etc. as needed to
a depth of 3 to 4 inches. Rake and smooth the soil, removing rocks, roots
and large clumps of sod or earth. Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller
1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil surface and reveal low areas
that need more soil. Keep the grade one inch below sidewalks &
driveways.
• Step 3 - Turf
Installation
Install your lawn
immediately upon delivery. Begin watering lawn within 30 minutes of
installation. Sod is a living plant
that requires ground contact and moisture to survive! In hot weather,
protect unlaid sod by placing pallets in shade, covering with moist burlap,
and/or sprinkling with water. Begin installing your sod along the longest
straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt 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 edge as they will
not retain moisture. On slopes, place sod across the slope and insert small
wooden pegs if slope is greater than 3:1. To avoid causing indentations or
air pockets avoid repeated walking or kneeling on the sod area while it is
being installed or just after watering.
• Step 4 - Watering
Give your new lawn at
least 1 inch of water within 1/2 hour of installation. Water daily or more
often, keeping your new sod moist until it is firmly rooted (about two
weeks). Then water sodded areas in sufficient quantities and at frequency
required to maintain optimum soil moisture condition to depth of 3 –
4 inches. Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of
watering. Be certain that your new sod has enough moisture to survive hot,
dry or windy periods. Water areas near buildings more often where reflected
heat dries the turf.
• Caution
During the first three weeks,
avoid heavy or concentrated use of your newly sodded lawn. This gives the
roots an opportunity to firmly knit with the soil and insures that the sod
will remain smooth.
• Maintenance
Your newly sod lawn will
increase your property value significantly. With proper care, it will
remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface and an
improved environment.
