If you’re dreaming of a beautiful, green lawn without waiting months for grass seed to grow, sod is your answer. Laying sod gives you an instant lawn—but success depends on careful preparation and proper installation. In this post we provide tips on how to lay sod to ensure your new turf thrives for years to come.
Step 1: Prepare the Soil
Start by removing old grass, weeds, and debris from your yard. Use a shovel or sod cutter for best results. Then, loosen the top 4–6 inches of soil with a rototiller. Mix in compost or topsoil to improve drainage and provide nutrients for the sod roots to establish quickly.
Step 2: Level and Grade the Area
Smooth out the soil surface using a rake, removing rocks and clumps. Gently slope the ground away from your house to prevent water pooling near the foundation. Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller to firm up the soil, but avoid compacting it too much.
Step 3: Measure and Order Sod
Measure your lawn area carefully to determine how many square feet of sod you’ll need. Always order about 5–10% extra to account for trimming and odd-shaped areas. Choose a sod variety suited to your climate, sunlight, and soil type for best performance.
Step 4: Lay the Sod Quickly
Sod is perishable, so install it the same day it’s delivered. Start laying sod along a straight edge, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Stagger each row like bricks, avoiding gaps or overlaps. Press the edges tightly together to prevent seams from drying out.
Step 5: Cut to Fit
Use a sharp knife to trim sod pieces around curves, trees, or garden beds. Fit them snugly but don’t stretch the sod—this can cause uneven rooting and bare spots later.
Step 6: Water Immediately
Once all the sod is laid, water the entire area thoroughly within 30 minutes. The soil underneath should be moist to a depth of at least six inches. Keep the sod consistently damp (but not soggy) for the first two weeks to help roots establish.
Step 7: Roll and Maintain
Use a lawn roller to press the sod firmly into the soil, eliminating air pockets and promoting contact for root growth. Avoid heavy foot traffic for the first two to three weeks. After about three weeks, reduce watering frequency and begin mowing when the grass reaches about 3 inches tall.
Step 8: Fertilize and Care for Long-Term Health
After four to six weeks, apply a balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth. Maintain your lawn with regular mowing, deep watering, and periodic aeration to keep it lush and vibrant year-round.
Laying sod takes some effort, but the payoff is immediate—a beautiful, green lawn that enhances your home’s curb appeal. With proper preparation, watering, and care, your new turf will thrive and provide lasting beauty for seasons to come.
