How to Lay Sod

Laying sod is a great way to quickly achieve a lush, green lawn. It's important to properly prepare the soil and install the sod correctly to ensure it takes root and thrives. Here are the steps to follow when laying sod:

1. Prepare the soil: Remove any rocks, debris or old turf from the area where you will be laying the sod. Loosen the soil with a garden fork or tiller to a depth of at least 6 inches. Rake the soil smooth and level, removing any large clumps or bumps.

2. Water the soil: Before laying the sod, water the prepared soil thoroughly to ensure it's moist but not waterlogged. This will help the sod establish roots more quickly.

3. Lay the first row: Start by laying a straight row of sod along a straight edge, such as a sidewalk or driveway. Butt the edges of the sod tightly together, without overlapping or leaving gaps. Use a sharp knife to trim the sod to fit around curves or obstacles.

4. Stagger the joints: For the second row of sod, stagger the joints so they don't line up with the joints in the first row. This will help prevent the sod from drying out and ensure a more even appearance.

5. Press the sod down: Use a lawn roller or the flat side of a garden rake to press the sod down firmly, ensuring good soil-to-sod contact. This will help the roots establish more quickly.

6. Water the sod: After laying each row of sod, water it thoroughly to help it settle into the soil. Be sure to water the sod regularly for the first few weeks, keeping it moist but not waterlogged.

7. Fertilize the sod: After the sod has been in place for a few weeks, it's a good idea to fertilize it to encourage healthy growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer that's formulated for new lawns.

8. Mow the sod: Once the sod has established roots and is growing well, it's time to mow it. Set your mower blade to a high setting to avoid cutting the grass too short, which can stress and damage the sod.

By following these steps, you can lay sod like a pro and enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn in no time.