A beautiful, healthy lawn surrounding your home is like the icing on a cake, taking something good and making it even better. For many busy homeowners, however, it can be difficult to find the time to source and install new sod. For them, sod delivery can be the perfect solution, bringing fresh sod directly to their doorstep, saving them time and effort.
What Do You Need to Know Before Buying Sod?
Before having sod delivered to your home, you need to know what factors to consider when making a purchase. Begin by assessing the needs of your lawn, including the type of grass most appropriate to the local climate, soil conditions, amount of sun exposure, and drainage. This will help you determine the right grass variety for optimal growth. For example, in the Vancouver area, you may want to consider a combination of ryegrass, Kentucky Bluegrass, and fescues.
Each type of grass has its own properties. Some types are drought tolerant, while others may require more watering. Others may be shade-tolerant or require a greater amount of sunlight. Consider also whether your lawn will be largely ornamental, or will it be required to endure a great deal of foot traffic.
Knowing the differences between the various types of grass allows you to select the sod variety for your needs and preferences. Many options are available at Western Turf Farms, including custom-grown turf.
How to Install Your Sod After Delivery
If you plan to install the new sod yourself, some preparation will be required. The area of installation will need to be cleared of debris, including old grass that is being replaced. Promote proper root growth by tilling the soil and ensuring that adequate irrigation will be available. It’s important to adequately prepare for the installation for a successful establishment of your new lawn.
Before you begin, make sure that you have all the necessary tools. If you are replacing an existing lawn, you may find a sod cutter useful, as this will allow you to remove grass, along with a thin layer of soil. A lawn rake will help you level the soil and differs from a leaf rake, with short, parallel tines. A sod roller will help to create a smooth surface, removing air pockets and ensuring good root contact with the soil beneath. Sprinklers and hoses will be essential for watering your new lawn.
Investing in quality sod and tools ensures a more durable, aesthetically pleasing lawn that will endure for years to come. One of the advantages of installing sod is that it provides you with an instant lawn, without the wait of seeding, though it is a project that does require some time. The size of the area will be a large factor and may see installation taking several hours, or even multiple days.
What to Expect After Sod Installation
Once your sod is installed, you can expect to perform some maintenance to ensure the sod’s health and the proper establishment that will provide longevity. Regular watering is a critical component of the establishment phase and typically requires daily irrigation for the first few weeks. The watering schedule can be adjusted over time as the sod takes root, according to weather conditions and the needs of the grass.
Those whose busy schedule and those who don’t necessarily want to install the new sod themselves can always turn to Western Turf Farms for a professional installation that will save time and can also save money by ensuring that the installation is done right the first time.
For more information about sod varieties, delivery options, or having sod installed, please contact us today and we will be happy to assist you.