Can I just lay sod over existing grass?

Sod, though, can be applied directly over existing grass.” When the grass dies, it gives off nutrients that actually benefit the new sod above it. The main nutrient that the dead grass layer provides is nitrogen. Applying sod directly over grass is advantageous because it requires less work.

How do you lay sod over existing grass?

Just follow these tips:

1. Cut a rectangle in or beside your existing grass.
2. Dig the rectangle out to a depth of 1–1 1/2 inches.
3. Loosen the soil in the rectangle.
4. Add compost, tamp, and level the rectangle to 1/2 inch below the surrounding topsoil.
5. Lay sod and trim to shape.

What should you put down before sod?

Typical starter fertilizer recommendations are (N-P-K) of 10-10-10 or 19-19-19. Lightly incorporate this starter fertilizer into the top 2-3 inches of topsoil to avoid root injury. Lightly tamp or roll the topsoil to settle the surface and create an ideal surface for installing the sod.

Can you lay sod on dirt?

While sod can be laid directly on fill dirt, some preparation and follow up is necessary for the success of the lawn.

Should I remove old grass before laying sod?

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.

Is sod cheaper than grass seed?

One of the two major factors involved in the decision to sod or seed is expense. Sod – Simply put, sod is the most expensive option because you are essentially paying someone else for time and materials of growing the grass. And, it is dramatically more expensive than seed.

Should I put starter fertilizer on new sod?

For new sod, it is critical to get the roots established first. A fertilizer with an adequate amount of phosphorus is best. ft.), or similar starter fertilizer, to the bare ground and then water it into the soil before installing the turf sod to help establish the roots.

How long should you stay off sod?

If you walk on your sod before its roots have established, you’re lessening your chances of success. How long must you wait to use your new sod lawn? The general recommendation is to wait two weeks – but the number of days you wait is really dependent on determining that the lawn has, indeed, taken root.

Can you lay sod without tilling?

If your yard has soft soil that is not compacted, you can install sod without tilling. This can save you time, money, and result in a beautiful yard. In order to install sod with the no-till method: Test your soil to make sure it is soft enough that tilling isn’t necessary.

When is the best time to lay sod?

Sod can be installed at almost any time of the year. The best time to lay sod, however, is in late summer and early fall when temperatures are cooler but grass continues to grow.

When to resod a lawn?

You can reseed a lawn at almost any time of the year, if necessary. The grass needs adequate time to get established before winter, however. Ideally, reseeding should be done several weeks before the first frost but after the scorching heat of summer.

How to renovate and resod a lawn?

Research to find what grass is appropriate for your lawn.

Measure your landscape to find out how much sod is needed. Sod is sold in rolls or loaded on pallets and sold in square feet.

Prepare the planting area for the new sod by removing all existing vegetation with a hoe,shovel and rake.

How do you prepare lawn for SOD?

Prepare the yard for the sod the same way you would prepare a garden bed before planting flowers or vegetables. Remove any large rocks or other debris from the proposed lawn area. It is not necessary to remove any existing grass. Spread ½ to 1 inch of peat moss and 1 inch of compost on top of the soil.