What are the basic steps to installing sod?
- Prepare the soil as if you were seeding
- Measure the area to be sodded to calculate the quantity you’ll need to order
- lay the first piece along a straight line such as a driveway or sidewalk
- install all additional pieces so the seams create a brick-like pattern
- apply at least one inch of water on the new sod, beginning within 30 minutes of laying down the first piece
- keep the base soil moist with daily (or more frequent) watering for the next two weeks.
Are there any “tricks of the trade” to make the installation better?
Sodding is simple, but it can be made easier by:
- Leveling the soil approximately one-inch below any hard surfaces such as patios, sidewalks and driveways so that when the sod is installed it won’t be higher or lower than the hard surface.
- If there’s any slope, begin sodding at the bottom and work your way up the slope to keep the seam and joints tightly together. If the slope is quite steep, run the pieces across the direction of the slope.
- To make sure you are applying enough water, lift a corner of any piece of sod and insert a screwdriver or other sharp probe into the underlying soil. If it’s hard to push in or the soil’s not moist, keep watering.
Does Poinsett Turfgrass Company install sod?
No we don’t install sod but we may have a few suggestions of people that will.
How often should I water my sod?
A new lawn takes more a more frequent, but lighter watering schedule than an established lawn. Don’t let the rolls dry out before installation. Start watering within 30 minutes after installation. Apply about 1″ of water initially so that the sod and the top 2″ ground underneath is thoroughly wet. Water up to 4 times a day especially in the middle of the day, if it is hot and sunny. Water enough to keep the sod and 2″ underneath moist.
Learn to read your lawn for water needs. If it looks green and lush like when it was installed, it is probably getting enough water. As the roots move into the soil underneath (you can lift up a corner of a roll and see the white tips coming out. ) and the sod attaches to the ground, you can reduce the frequency and increase the duration gradually until after 2 weeks you can water your turf normally.
How long can the sod stay on the pallets once its delivered?
Same-day installation is vital to the success of the new lawn! Sod is extremely perishable .
How much sun does my sod need?
Both Tifway 419 Bermuda and Palisades Zoysia are grown in full sun. Tifway 419 Bermuda needs about 8+ hours of sun and Palisades Zoysia needs 3-4 hours of filtered sun in order to thrive at its fullest potential.
Do I have to be a landscaper to purchase sod from Poinsett Turfgrass Company?
No. We sell to the public as well as those customers in the trade.
Do I have to call ahead?
Our sod is cut to order, so calling ahead is always a good idea. To schedule a delivery, it is in your best interest to call at least three to four days in advance. To schedule sod to pick up, you should call one day in advance. There is a small amount of waiting time when you pick up, because your sod is cut fresh from the field, and loaded for you.
Can I get sod and wait to lay it until later in the week?
We do not recommend purchasing the sod until you are ready to lay it. If it sits in the sun rolled up, it will turn brown and may even die. We can only guarantee for the delivery. When you get your sod, if there are any problems you should call immediately, so we may replace it for you. It is your responsibility as the purchaser to water it sufficiently, and lay it properly. (For proper installation and maintenance, see the sod page on our site.)
Can I fit it in my truck?
On pallet will fit in a full size pick-up truck. It weighs approximately one ton and the pallet is 4’ by 4’.
What is the best time of the year to install sod?
Sod can be installed at any time, even if the ground is frozen.
When can I start mowing my newly installed sod?
Your first mowing should occur as soon as your lawn is rooted (usually in 12-20 days). You will want to raise your mower up so that you don’t mow more than 1/3 of a grass blade off at one time. Gradually get your grass height down to 2.5-3”.
Tip: Do not mow wet grass.
Do I need to apply a starter fertilizer before I install sod?
The use of a starter fertilizer (low in nitrogen) will help promote root growth. Always follow label directions since too much can burn the roots of your new grass.
Note: A lot of sod is installed without a starter fertilizer and does just fine.
Should I add topsoil before I lay sod?
Adding topsoil is not essential for sod but it will provide some benefits. What topsoil does is increases a soil’s water and nutrient holding capacity, so if you do add it, the intervals between watering and fertilizing will be longer. If you do want to add topsoil, 2 inches will provide good benefits if you mix it into the existing soil. A thin layer of topsoil prevents grass plants from rooting deeply.
When you deliver the sod, will the driver place it in one area or spot it around the site?
The driver will place sod around the site as long as it is safe to do so within reasonable time frame (less than 35 minutes and at the driver’s discretion). We require a 9 foot opening for the forklift.
Why are there no prices on your website?
There are no prices on our website because prices are subject to change due to delivery locations and other variants. We apologize about that inconvenience it may cause. If you would like a specific price quote, please call us at 870-578-2391.
How much lead time is required for delivery?
We for ask 3-4 days’ notice for delivery.
How long does it take to install sod?
Installing 1 pallet, which is 450 sq. ft., generally takes 1 person approximately 1-1 1/2 hours. Hard to access areas and those requiring a lot of cutting will take longer.
Is it difficult to install?
No, not at all. You just pick up a roll, lay it on the ground, and unroll. It’s that easy. You just want to be sure to “butt” the edges tight with no overlapping.
Should I use seed or sod on slopes?
Sod is proven to be much better at retaining water, preventing soil erosion, and providing instant cover and protection to sloped areas. Stakes may be needed to hold the sod in place during the rooting process.
Can I buy less than 50 square yards?
Yes, you can. Please call the office to discuss this option.