Care Of New Sod Lawn

Introduction

Sod is a fake turf or surface. It is a part of soil held beneath by roots or some part of the material itself. This sod is sold to landscapers who use it for making lawns.

Caring for sod:

Transplanting sod to make a lawn is the quickest but expensive method used by many landscapers. Lawns get established as soon as the sod roots connect to the new location. However, before the lawn can be laid, it is essential to take a few precautions. It is important that the area prepared for the lawn is smooth. Freeing the surface of any logs, debries, and big stones can do this effectively. Usually a fertilizer consisting of phosphorous, potassium and nitrogen is applied to the area without actually touching the roots of sod. Also the sod should be applied immediately on receipt as it may dry out, if delayed. The way you apply the sod on the slopes is very important. Usually, laying it in a way that prevents excess rain water flooding or washing away the sod is considered ideal. Once the sod is laid, the edges should be covered with soil, to prevent them from drying out. The sod should be watered two to three times a day. This is done to keep the sod moist and not wet. Therefore, excess watering should be avoided. Human traffic on sod should be kept minimum the first few days as the sod can still be establishing its root. Also household pets should be introduced gradually to sod and should be discouraged from digging. The first mowing of the new sod is done approximately two weeks after installation. Fertilizing the sod once a month can improve its quality and lifespan.

Common problems in sods:

Despite your efforts, the sod can face certain problems. A few measures can help you here. Sometimes sods do not seem to be rooting. The reason for this can be too much shade. Also adjusting your watering schedule to less frequent soaking can solve the problem. Sometimes, footmarks are visible after being walked on; adjusting sprinkler coverage can be helpful. In case of mushroom growth decreasing water can dry them out. However too little water can shrivel the edges of the sod. Proper moisture is therefore necessary.

Taking a few precautions can solve most of these problems.

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