Maintaining your lawn is at the top of the list of home upkeep tasks, especially for
homeowners who find joy in knowing their lawn is great to look at and at its healthiest. From hosting summer
celebrations or relaxing in the front yard, it’s understandable that this season gets busy with numerous travel,
vacations, and getting out. Still, one thing always remains your lawn.
Why Summer is the Ideal Time to Use Sod
The beginning of summer is an opportune time to lay sod, as it can align with optimal
growing conditions and the homeowners' active outdoor lifestyle. It’s important to be aware of temperatures
before laying sod — above 85 degrees or below 40 degrees Fahrenheit is too extreme and can risk improper
rooting. Here are additional reasons why starting with sod in the summer is advantageous:
Create a welcoming outdoor environment that complements the vibrant colors of summer
flowers and plants surrounding the rest of the landscape.
The Benefits of Sod for Year-Round Use
Sod is often comparable to traditional seeding, offering many advantages that make lawn
maintenance and care easier and simpler for homeowners. If you’re still considering what type of grass to go
with for your lawn, here are some reasons why sod may be a preferred option over seed for you:
Time Efficient
Sod provides homeowners with an instant, healthy, fully-grown lawn, a preferred choice
for homeowners who have experienced previous damage or issues growing natural grass. Seeding requires weeks
to months for the grass to germinate and grow, whereas sod works as a fresh, green carpet ready to use
within hours. A time-efficient lawn is especially beneficial for homeowners needing quick results due to
upcoming events or planned gatherings.
Erosion Control
Sod acts as a natural erosion control solution by stabilizing the soil and preventing
the loss of topsoil due to wind or rain. Its dense network of roots helps retain moisture, making it ideal
for areas prone to erosion.
Weed Suppression
Sod possesses strong root systems that effectively minimize weed growth. It’s also
important to lay sod in an area with no leftover weeds. The tightly knit sod prevents weeds from penetrating
the surface, reducing the need for herbicides and manual weed removal.
Expert Tips for Maintaining a New Sod Lawn
Once you've installed your new sod lawn, proper maintenance is crucial to ensure its
longevity and vitality. Here are some expert tips:
Adequate watering is essential to establish strong roots. Water the sod deeply, allowing
the moisture to penetrate the soil to a depth of at least 4-6 inches. Water early in the morning or late in
the evening to minimize evaporation.
Wait until the sod is firmly rooted before mowing the first time. Set your mower blade
to a height of about 2.5 to 3 inches, and avoid removing more than one-third of the grass length at a time.
Or developing regular mowing maintenance from a professional landscaping
company.
Fertilization: Apply a slow-release fertilizer approximately six weeks after the
installation sod. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid over-fertilizing, as it can harm the sod.
Regular fertilization throughout the year will keep your lawn vibrant.
By embracing sod, homeowners can save time and enjoy a weed-free, erosion-resistant
lawn. Start your sod journey this summer with Pristine Lawncare and revel in the benefits of all sod, all the time!