Materials Required:
- Sod
- Compost/manure
- Top Soil - Sunnyside Top Soil Plus or bulk loam
- A rake
- A sod-roller
Procedure:
- Remove all rocks and debris from the area.
- Grade soil in the area, sloping gradually away from structures to ensure water/runoff will be directed away from your home, sidewalk, etc.
- Apply a layer of topsoil to the graded area. A layer of at least 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) deep is recommended for the sod to grow and thrive. Calculate the amount of topsoil you will require using the following formula:
length of area (feet) X width of area (feet) X depth (inches) = ______ cubic feet
12
A 30 L bag will cover approximately 1 cubic foot.
A self-serve bag will cover approximately 6 cubic feet.
Note: if you require 27 bags or more, it may be beneficial to have them delivered.
*To convert cubic feet to cubic yards, divide the number of cubic feet by 27.
- The application of a 3 inch layer of compost or manure is recommended to help establish vigorous roots and a healthy lawn. The formula above can also be used to calculate the required amount of compost/manure.
- Rake the area smooth and level out any low spots. Use a sod-roller to firm the soil, ensuring that the soil does not become overly compacted.
- Determine the number of rolls of sod you will need. Each roll is 24" X 60" and will cover 10 square feet. Calculate the number of rolls required using the following formula:
length (feet) X width (feet) = _____rolls of sod
10
- Order the sod. It is important to wait to order the sod until the area has been completely prepared. Once you’ve received the sod, stack the rolls in a shaded area so that they will not dry out/heat up.
- Lay the first row of sod, following a straight edge. For example, a curb, a sidewalk, a driveway, or a taut string will work as a guide.
- Continue to lay the sod so that the seams are staggered, as they are in the diagram below:
Ensure that the edges of the sod do not overlap and that they are flush with one another.
- Trim the excess sod with a sharp knife.
- Roll the sod with a sod-roller to ensure that the roots will make good contact with the soil.
- Water the sod thoroughly with a sprinkler for 2-3 hours. Repeat as often as necessary to keep the area moist (approximately 2-3 weeks or until new growth is present).