Cultural Practices – Seeding Grass and Sod Installation

Selecting Mowing Equipment

There are several methods of establishing new turf, including seeding grass and sod installation. Both methods have advantages and disadvantages and you should consult with a lawn care professional to determine which method is right for your lawn.

Seeding grass

Seeding grass is a beneficial practice that can be performed on new or existing lawns. Many grass types lose density over time and require periodic seeding to maintain a dense, thick lawn. Seeding grass also adds new varieties that diversify the genetics of an existing lawn. This improves the resistance to disease, insects, drought and other stresses. In warm season turf, seeding grass with cool season turf can be used to maintain a uniform green color over the winter months when the lawn is dormant.

Seeding grass has many benefits:

• Improves density and color of the lawn
• Improves tolerance to insect and disease stress
• Improves tolerance to drought and heat stress
• Maintains green color during warm season turf dormancy

Scotts® Pure Premium® Grass Seed

Scotts grass seed varieties are developed and then tested in national evaluations all across the country before being introduced. Turf quality, pest resistance/tolerance and stress tolerance are all factors considered in selecting a new variety. It takes many years to develop and introduce a new variety.

Sod Installation

Tips on How to Lay Sod

• Select fresh-cut sod and store in the shade. If possible, store the sod in rolls. If left in stacks, sod can die or decline in warm weather after 24-36 hours. Keep sod moist until ready to use.
• Lay the first row out following a straight line. Use a sidewalk or a string pulled tight between stakes.
• Lay the second strip closely next to the first.
• Lay subsequent rows in a staggered pattern. The end seams on one row should fall in the center of the previous row. Seams should be tight with no visible gaps.
• On slopes, lay sod perpendicular to slope. This prevents it from sliding when watering. On severe slopes use 2 to 4 stakes per roll to keep sod in place.
• Cut the sod to fit irregular spaces. Use a machete, small hatchet or sod knife.
• Pat the sod down to improve root contact with the soil. A hand-pulled, drum-type roller may be used. Air pockets will cause the sod to dry out and die.

Once you have finished seeding grass or laying sod, there are a number of additional lawn care steps that should be taken to ensure your turf grows into a healthy lawn that is full and lush. These steps include establishing a lawn watering schedule, applications of selective weed control treatments and other lawn maintenance requirements.

Scotts LawnService is the trusted industry leader for professional quality lawn care. Our exclusive lawn care products include premium grass seeds and professional-grade fertilizers; our lawn service teams are comprised of highly trained, industry-certified professionals. Contact a representative today for lawn care services available in your area and to learn how you can enjoy a lush, thicker lawn that only Scotts LawnService can deliver.