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You can’t simply lay sod on top of grass without doing proper preparation. “All sod must make soil contact to root,” she points out. “Therefore, the existing grass / lawn must be extremely sparse or you will have to bring in dirt and put it on top before laying the new sod.
Is it OK to lay sod over existing grass?
People often think that laying sod over an existing lawn makes sense and saves time. In fact, laying fresh sod over an existing lawn is no shortcut and could kill your sod and cause you twice as much work. Removing your old lawn before laying new sod is crucial for a healthy root system.
How do you lay sod over existing grass?
Can You Lay Sod Next to Existing Grass? Cut a rectangle in or beside your existing grass. Dig the rectangle out to a depth of 1–1 1/2 inches. Loosen the soil in the rectangle. Add compost, tamp, and level the rectangle to 1/2 inch below the surrounding topsoil. Lay sod and trim to shape.
What should you put down before sod?
Remove the Old Grass. Before laying sod, the old grass and a bit of the old soil beneath it has to be taken away. Prepare the Soil. Use a garden rake (also known as a bow rake) to level the soil and break up any large chunks. Lay the Sod. Neaten the Edges. Water Frequently.
Do I need to remove old grass before laying new turf?
Laying new turf over old lawn is possible, but results will not be satisfactory in the long run. New grass will grow over old turf, however, your lawn’s condition will deteriorate over time as the old grass dies. For best results, you should always remove any old vegetation before laying new turf.
Can I lay sod on top of weeds?
Can You Lay Sod Over Weeds? You should never lay sod over weeds. You will only prevent weeds for a short time. Weeds will quickly work their way up through even the smallest seams between pieces of sod grass or push up through the sod and topsoil.
Can you put topsoil over existing grass?
Yes, you can temporarily disguise bald patches in your lawn by laying new turf on top of it. AND the new turf will probably root in to it in the short term but the effect will not last. Your new lawn will soon look like your old one and you will have wasted your money!.
How long does it take for sod to root?
Your new sod should root within 10-14 days of application. This is also when you should mow your new lawn for the first time after laying sod. Be sure to set your mower to the highest setting possible in order to avoid cutting it too close to the root.
Can I lay sod on hard dirt?
Laying the sod is the easy part; getting the soil ready so it can keep your sod healthy takes much longer. When your yard is covered in hard dirt, the sod isn’t likely to thrive, although it might not die. Instead, loosen and prepare the dirt so your sod can establish quickly and provide you with a lush, full lawn.
What kind of dirt do you put under sod?
Black loam provides an abundance of water and nutrients to the soil which is extremely important for their health. It provides better drainage that clay-rich soil, which is why it’s commonly used to prepare the soil for sodding.
Should you compact dirt before laying sod?
It is important to loosen the soil before planting new sod because it reduces compaction and makes it easier for the roots to grow into the soil. Also, the loose soil will hold moisture better, reducing the amount you have to water.
Can landscape fabric go under sod?
Do not lay sod on top of soil where landscape fabric has been installed. Landscape fabric will create a barrier that prevents sod from forming deep, strong roots. Landscape fabric can also hinder the natural process of decomposition in your soil, preventing leaves and grass clippings from properly combining with soil.
How do you stop weeds from growing on new sod?
Consider a selective post-emergent herbicide in a spray bottle or tank sprayer with a controllable stream; this way, you can easily spot-treat the weeds in your new sod. Pre-emergent herbicides prevent weeds from growing, but if you lay sod in spring or fall it may be too late to use this kind of herbicide.
What is a sod knife?
Knives with serrated edges, resembling small pruning saws, are used for cutting sod. Serrated edges cut through thick mats of creeping grasses, severing stolons with a sawing motion while the knife is drawn through the grass.
What is the best tool to remove grass?
To manually remove grass using a shovel: It is best if you have at least one flat-edge shovel (or lawn edging shovel) – used to easily cut clean lines in the sod. If you are removing only a portion of the grass, mark the desired edge line with a rope, string, or spray paint as a guide.
How do you dig up sod with a shovel?
The Method to Remove Grass A good sharp, flat shovel makes the job easier. Cut the outline of your sod pad. Start to lift the pad. Gently pry it up to create a gap between the sod and soil. Once on your knees, slice through the roots about 1-2″ below the sod/grass. Carefully pick it up and move it away.
