How to Apply Sod

Measure and mark the area. Use yard stakes and twine or spray paint to mark the areas of the lawn that need sod. You should also measure the area so you know how much sod you need. Do this whether you're sodding an entire lawn or repairing damaged spots.

Remove stray patches. Use a spade or shovel to remove dead or dying grass in your marked area. You can leave larger areas of healthy sod in place by removing the damaged areas around them. If necessary, mark off the healthy areas with stakes and twine or spray paint.

Remove soil impurities. Use your shovel or your hands to remove material like weeds, rocks, deadwood, and other debris or contaminants. Inspect the area once you've removed the impurities to make sure there is nothing you missed.

Add fertilizer. Sod grows best when it is laid upon a base of starter fertilizer. Consult your local nursery, and ask what starter fertilizers are best for your sod type and local soil conditions.

Rake the soil. Make sure it is even and slightly lower than the surrounding sod areas, since new sod comes with its own soil.

Lay as many full strips of sod over the soil as you can, keeping the strips in a straight line Fill in irregular areas by cutting individual sod pieces out of the larger strips with a spade or hatchet. Continue laying the sod until the entire area is covered.

Pat down the sod. The sod roots must contact the underlying soil or the sod can die. Tamp the sod down by using a wooden board and standing on it or by using a sod roller. Do not step directly on the sod -- this can damage the roots.

Water the sod everyday for several weeks. Water until the soil is saturated, but do not over water since this can erode and wash away the sod soil, especially on slopes.