Soil Preparation

No doubt about it, preparing ground for sod is usually the most labor intensive part of the job. But the good news is this step has to be done first so you can get it out the way early. Preparation involves adding soil rejuvenates while loosening and leveling the soil. You can use a spade shovel on a small lawn area or a rototiller on a large lawn area. Your thorough preparation process will allow the grass roots to grow deep and soak up all the nutrients of the soil as well as retain moisture. Follow the steps below to prepare your soil for sod.

1. Remove all weeds and debris from area to be sodded.

2. Loosen top soil to a depth of 4″ to 6″ with a spade or rototiller. In most cases you may need to add some type of soil conditioner to your soil. If top soil is brought in, use a minimum of 3 inches.

3. Using a rake, smooth and grade all surfaces to be sodded. We recommend an automatic sprinkler irrigation system for your new lawn. Soil should be 1″ below mowing strips, sidewalks, driveways, and patios to accommodate for sod thickness. Using a lawn roller, roll the area lightly for a smooth surface.

4. Water your soil area to be sodded, (especially in the summer months) to a depth of 6″, two days prior to sod installation. Just before sod is installed, scatter a preplant fertilizer on the soil by hand or with a spreader.Next > Sod Installation

Have a soil preparation question? The experts at Sierra Sod are standing by to assist you. Contact us now!