How to Lay Sod in Alternating Rows

Remove the old grass and other vegetation from the yard: Slide a shovel under the base of the grass and scrape away the grass. Pick up any rocks that are lying on the ground’s surface and dispose of them.

Till the ground with a garden tiller to at least 6 inches. This helps promote water flow to the roots of the grass.

Add up to 6 inches of topsoil to the lawn’s surface. If you prefer, mix fertilizer or compost into the existing soil. Rake the topsoil with a garden rake to smooth it. When you complete this step, all soil should be 1 inch below sidewalks, driveways and other ground-level fixtures.

Water the prepared ground the night before you lay sod with a lawn sprinkler. Soak the ground to at least 6 inches.

Unroll the first roll of sod along a straight edge. Set the end of a second roll against the end of the first one. Lightly mash the ends together. Continue setting the first row of sod in place. Cut the excess from the end with a utility knife.

Unroll another roll of sod to its halfway point, plumb against the side of the first row you just laid. Cut the roll. Move the remainder of the second roll of sod to the side and start a fresh roll to finish the second row, and more rolls as necessary. You can use the other half of the cut roll at the end of the second row or any other, cutting it for size as needed. Just ensure no two rows' end seams are aligned.

Continue placing sod on the ground until you have all the rolls set. Cut pieces, as necessary, to fit around objects in the yard.

Walk over the sod to ensure there are no air pockets under it. Do not compact the soil underneath or the sod any more than necessary.

Water the sod daily for at least two weeks, or until you detect the roots of the grass are growing into the soil beneath the sod. For best results, water early in the day so the moisture doesn’t remain on the leaves of the plants. Stay off the sod as much as possible during this time period to allow the roots a chance to grow.