How to Lay Sod & Prep Soil

Prepare the Soil

• 1

  Measure the area where you'll be laying the sod. Multiply the width by the length to find the square footage of sod you will need.

• 2

  Spray herbicide to kill any existing weeds or grass. Follow the directions on the herbicide label for use.

• 3

  Till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.

• 4

  Spread soil amendments, such as lime or fertilizer, onto the soil. Till the soil until the amendments are mixed well with the existing soil.

• 5

  Install the sprinkler system, leaving the sprinkler heads off.

• 6

  Rake the soil to remove any debris such as rocks, roots or other debris. Slope the soil away from driveways and buildings. Keep the soil about 1 to 2 inches below the level of sidewalks and driveways around the perimeter. Attach the sprinkler heads in the appropriate places.

• 7

  Use the lawn roller to compact the soil and firm it up to reveal any holes or low spots.

• 8

  Water the soil well, making sure the water is absorbed down about 6 inches. Fill in any holes or low spots as needed.

• 9

  Set up the sod delivery date. Water the lawn until moist.

Laying the Sod

• 10

  Apply a slow-release fertilizer on the soil just prior to delivery.

• 11

  Lay the sod starting at the back of the lawn and continue along the longest straight boundary, working your way to the front. Fit edges of the sod together tightly with no gaps between squares of edges of the roll.

• 12

  Trim the edges of the sod with the sod knife to fit against the edges of sidewalks, driveways, sprinkler heads and curves in planting beds.

• 13

  Fill the lawn roller 1/3 to half full with water, then roll it over the entire lawn.

• 14

  Water the newly laid sod within half an hour. Water the sod one to two times a day for the first week, keeping the new grass very moist. Once sod is rooted, water only as needed.