Note: Sod must be installed within 24 hours of pick up or delivery for best results.
Fresh sod is cut the night before delivery. Begin installation immediately and keep the sod rolls lightly damp throughout the process.
Before You Begin
Treat sod like milk on a hot day - Do not let it sit out.
Keep unlaid rolls misted and work steadily to prevent drying.
Lay Sod (Fast & Friendly)
1. Start farthest away: Use the longest straight edge or a string line to guide your first row. Complete the first row end to end.
2. Brick pattern: Begin the second row with a half roll to stagger the seams like bricks. Butt edges tightly together—never overlap. Trim borders and around sprinklers with a sharp knife.
3. Hot day (over 90°F): Mist rolls on the pallet and stage them in shaded areas. Lightly water any sod already laid within 30 minutes—even if installation isn't finished.
4. Slopes: Lay sod perpendicular to the hill (across the slope) to reduce the risk of washouts.
5. Minimize foot traffic: Step carefully to avoid shifting the sod pieces.
6. Roll it smooth: Use a lawn roller (half-filled with water) to seat roots and remove air pockets.
7. Big first drink: Water thoroughly so moisture reaches deep into the soil.
Watering Schedule (Days 1–14)
The goal is consistently moist, not soggy sod. Adjust your sprinkler type and timing to avoid puddles or runoff.
Note: If you are using large rotator or water-saving sprinklers, double the watering times listed below to ensure adequate moisture reaches the soil.
Skip nighttime watering: Damp and dark conditions can lead to fungus growth.
First Mowing
Tug test: If sod lifts easily, wait. If it resists, it is rooted and ready for mowing.
Timing: April–October: 2–3 weeks after installation; November–March: 3–4 weeks.
Before mowing: Allow soil to firm up. Pause watering for 1–2 days before mowing.
Rule of thirds: Never remove more than 1/3 of the blade height during mowing.
After first mowing apply your choice of seasonal fertilizer.
Summary
For best results, treat sod installation with urgency and care. Install sod within 24 hours of pick up or delivery, lay sod promptly, water according to temperature, and wait for proper rooting before mowing. Following these steps will help establish a healthy, beautiful lawn from Redi‑Green Sod Farms.
