Can you lay sod over existing grass?

Can you lay sod over existing grass?

Sod, though, can be applied directly over existing grass.” When the grass dies, it gives off nutrients that actually benefit the new sod above it. The main nutrient that the dead grass layer provides is nitrogen. Applying sod directly over grass is advantageous because it requires less work.

When should you’re sod your lawn?

Sod can be installed at almost any time of the year. The best time to lay sod, however, is in late summer and early fall when temperatures are cooler but grass continues to grow. Spring is the second best time to lay sod and is the preferable time for warm-season grasses such as centipede, zoysia, Bermuda, and St.

What should you put down before sod?

Remove the Old Grass Before laying sod, the old grass and a bit of the old soil beneath it has to be taken away. The goal is to end up with a level stretch of soil that is about an inch below the surrounding surfaces.

Should I remove old grass before laying sod?

People often think that laying sod over an existing lawn makes sense and saves time. In fact, laying fresh sod over an existing lawn is no shortcut and could kill your sod and cause you twice as much work. Removing your old lawn before laying new sod is crucial for a healthy root system.

Should I till my lawn before laying sod?

It is not always necessary to till before you lay sod. In this case, simply remove your existing lawn with a sod cutter, grade your yard, and add a few inches of topsoil in low areas. Then, you can install sod and fertilizer. Tilling before you lay sod churns the soil, bringing long-buried weed seeds to the surface.

Is it better to resod or reseed?

Longer establishment period: Sod can establish itself much faster. Long-term results: While new sod can quickly transform your yard, reseeding can take a full growing season for new grass to appear dense, lush and green.

How do you Resod an entire lawn?

Steps

1. Clear the area where you’ll be installing sod.
2. After tilling, rake the soil to remove any sticks and clumps of old grass.
3. Spray the area with water to moisten the soil.
4. Begin laying strips of sod.
5. Keep the sod moist as you lay it, and hose it down after you’re finished.

Do you need to till before laying sod?

Can I lay sod without tilling?

If your yard has soft soil that is not compacted, you can install sod without tilling. This can save you time, money, and result in a beautiful yard. In order to install sod with the no-till method: Test your soil to make sure it is soft enough that tilling isn’t necessary.

Do you need topsoil for sod?

Adding topsoil is not essential for sod but it will provide some benefits. If you cannot have the topsoil mixed into the existing soil, then do not apply it! A thin layer of topsoil prevents grass plants from rooting deeply.

Should you compact topsoil before laying sod?

We recommend using topsoil which has up to 75% sand content by volume. The sub soil below the topsoil should not be excessively compact as this can create drainage issues. In the case of limited surface drainage and compacted sub soil you may need to install drain tile.

When can you lay sod?

Sod is a hefty investment, so it is critical to prepare the planting area and tend the turf with care. You can lay sod anytime during the growing season, although spring and early autumn are best—cool temperatures combined with occasional rain help sod quickly root.

How do you install new sod?

Installing New Sod. New sod should be installed within 24 hours of being cut on the sod farm. It’s best to begin your installation in a corner. The sod should be placed directly on top of the soil and pushed firmly in place and tamped down with your hand to make sure the sod has direct contact with the soil and there are no wrinkles.

How do you take care of sod?

Watering and Fertilizing the Sod Irrigate the sod 6 inches (15 cm) deep every day for the first week. Water the sod for 40 minutes per day during the second week. Water the sod 1-2 times per day for 30 minutes after it has taken root. Reduce waterings to twice per week after you start mowing the sod.