Fescue Sod Installation

Remove weeds and existing grass from the site. Till or rake the soil to loosen it and remove any rocks and debris. Smooth the soil surface. Establish a slight grade away from the house, if possible, to encourage water to drain.

Test your lawn soil for pH and nutrient levels. Improve the soil as recommended for nutrients and add lime, if needed, to raise the pH to the 6.0 to 7.0 levels. Mix the lime, organic matter and fertilizers recommended into the top 6 inches of soil.

Rake the soil smooth again and roll the surface with a light roller, if available. Water the soil thoroughly the day before sod delivery. Check the soil for moisture when the sod is delivered. If it is dry, water lightly before laying the sod.

Lay the sod promptly after delivery. Place the first strip of sod along a straight line such as the property boundary or driveway. Place the strips close together with no cracks between blocks. Stagger each row so that the joints do not line up.

Water the sod immediately after laying. When laying a large area of sod, water each section as soon as it is finished.

Lightly roll the sod when it is dry enough to walk on, and then stay off the sod until the roots are established. If a roller is not available, lightly tamp each piece down in place before moving to the next.

Water the new sod several times a day for the first few days, then daily during the first week. After the first week, provide approximately 1 inch of water every 2 to 3 days to keep the soil moist. Adjust this schedule as needed to prevent your soil from becoming saturated or wet.

Increase the days between watering once the sod has taken root. Water every 4 to 7 days, depending on your soil and climate.