How do you know how much sod you need?
To determine the amount of sod you will need, measure the length times the width of each area, then add each area together. For example:
10 x 20 = 200
10 x 30 = 300
200 + 300 = 500 square feet of area |
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If the area is circular or rounded, measuring may be more difficult. If the area is slightly curved, simply measure a little extra. More trimming is needed in circular areas. Keep in mind, the mathematical model for circles is 3.14 times the radius, squared.
A triangle is ½, times length, times width.
Questions:
How deep is the sod?
The grass is 1 ½ inches thick. The soil is ½ inch thick.
How soon after applying weed killer can you lay sod?
Wait five days after using week killer (Roundup).
What do you use to trim the sod as you lay it?
Use a knife or shovel.
What is annual bluegrass?
Annual bluegrass is a low-growing annual grass that is reseeding almost continuously. You can identify it by the white seed heads that are still there after mowing.
Instructions:
1. Roto-till or work the ground to a depth of 4 to 6 inches. If there is heavy clay, you may need to add lime and topsoil.
2. Fertilize prepared ground with a 16-16-15 or 20-20-20 fertilizer at a rate of 5 to 10 pounds per thousand feet.
3. Rake and smooth the soil, removing any large clods, roots, or rocks. Level all roll soil to create a firm, flat surface. Pre-water the ground to prevent fertilizer burn and to aid in creating a firm surface. Allow the ground to dry before beginning to lay sod. When sod arrives, start laying sod as soon as possible to prevent burning.
4. Install sod by laying pieces tightly together in a brick-like manner (see illustration below). Cover the exposed edge of the lawn with soil to prevent sod from drying. After all sod is in place, roll the lawn lightly.
5. Water your new lawn immediately and keep the soil moist for the next two weeks to aid the root system in adapting to its new location. Weather conditions will determine the amount and frequency of watering. During warm weather, consistent watering is critical.
6. Although your new lawn will look beautiful immediately, you should avoid heavy traffic on the lawn for two weeks. At two weeks, begin to lessen water applications so the lawn can be mowed. Mow at the two or 2 ½ inch height and later, bring it down to a 1.75 to two inch height level for long-term care.
Long-Term Care:
1. Mow at 1.75 to two inches.
2. Water once a week to help deepen and strengthen root growth. An inch of water is adequate, except in very hot weather.
3. From March to October, fertilize about every six weeks using a fertilizer ratio of 20-5-20-10. Remember, nitrogen makes the grass grown, and the potash and sulfur will help with color and disease resistance without the rate of growth associated with nitrogen. Once the sod is established, phosphorous is not needed in large amounts. Trace amounts of iron also help with color and a reduction in moss in shaded areas.
Contact Willamette Turf, Inc. today at 800-742-2219, or browse the website for more information about lawn service or view some of our frequently asked questions.
