How to Lay Sod for Bermuda Grass

Test the soil for pH and nutrient levels. Test results also give you the amount of fertilizer and lime, if any, that is needed. Contact a local extension office for kits and instructions.

Remove debris such as large rocks greater than 2 to 3 inches in diameter, roots, weeds and other debris -- using a rake, shovel and wheelbarrow to cart it away.

Remove the topsoil and put it in a pile off to the side out of the way. Use a rake, metal doormat or shovel to grade the soil. Slope the ground away from sidewalks, the driveway and house at a decline of 1 to 2 percent or 6 inches every 50 feet.

Check for low spots, fill them in and rake smooth. Replace the topsoil. Topsoil should measure 6 to 8 inches deep.

Add compost, fertilizer and lime in the amounts specified by soil test results. Use the rototiller to loosen soil and work in amendments to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Install your irrigation system, and mark the location of all valves and sprinkler heads with small flags.

Drag a metal doormat or use a rake to spread the soil out evenly. Run a water ballast roller over areas with loose soil to lightly compress it, if needed.

Water soil evenly with a garden hose so that it's moist to a depth of 6 inches, and allow excess water to drain before laying Bermuda grass sod.

Lay Bermuda grass sod in a straight line starting at the edge of the house, driveway or sidewalk. Fit the pieces of sod together tightly, without stretching them, and tightly against the house, driveway or sidewalk. Off-set the remaining rows of sod in a bricklaying pattern. Use soil to fill in cracks.

Roll the newly laid Bermuda grass sod with a water ballast roller at right angles to the direction it was laid. Water immediately down to a depth of 3 to 4 inches. Carefully lift a corner of sod to check the moisture underneath.