How to Lay Down Sod After Installing Sprinklers

Out of all of the gardening projects that homeowners undertake, laying sod can be one of the most instantly gratifying. Aside from the two-week period, it needs to become established, you will have an instant lawn. Justifiably, sod is more expensive than seed, but also more convenient. The key to success with sod is preparing the area thoroughly, including installing your irrigation equipment.

Rake
Lawn roller
Knife

Instructions

- 1
  Rake the top soil to remove any remaining rocks, sticks and sprinkler parts.
- 2
  Use the lawn roller to pack the soil. Stand back and look at the surface of the soil. If you notice any hills or valleys, rake it again until it is level and smooth.
- 3
  Lay the sod over a sprinkler head and lightly press on it until there is an impression of it on the back -- or dirt -- side of the sod. Turn the sod over and use the knife to trace around the impression and cut the grass. Repeat this procedure for each sprinkler head.
- 4
  Begin laying the sod at a straight edge, such as at the sidewalk, or along the driveway. Lay the entire first row along this straight edge.
- 5
  Stagger the remaining rows of sod in a checkerboard pattern, pushing each piece up against the previous one as tightly as possible. Use a sharp knife to cut around corners, such as near flower boxes.
- 6
  Roll the sod with the lawn roller and then soak it 4 inches of water and provide an additional 4 inches of water daily until it has rooted.

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