How to Save Sod

Sod is a 1 to 2 inch thick section of grass, grass roots and topsoil. If you purchased a new home without an established lawn or if you need to renovate your old lawn, laying sod is an option. Laying sod is less time consuming than spreading grass seed and it produces an established lawn quickly. However, it is more expensive than grass seed. Once you have purchased your sod and brought it home, it is important to either lay it immediately or save it somewhere safe to prevent it from drying and deteriorating.

Tarp
Garden hose

Instructions

- 1
  Lay the sod on the ground, grass side up. Stand on one end and begin tightly rolling the sod all the way down its length.
- 2
  Pick up the rolled sod and carry it somewhere shady, such as under a large tree. If you have no large tree, cover the sod with a tarp to help trap moisture and keep the sun off it. Sod left out in the sun quickly dries out and deteriorates, causing grass root death.
- 3
  Stack sod rolls together if you have multiple rolls. Water the sod's soil lightly with a garden hose. Do not let the soil dry out or the grass roots die. Use just enough water to moisten the soil. Do not use so much water that the soil becomes muddy. Water the sod two to three times per day, or whenever the soil appears dry.
- 4
  Use the sod within 24 to 36 hours from purchase. If saved for much longer than that, the grass roots weaken, causing the sod to fail to connect with your yard's soil.

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