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Hybrid Bermuda Grasses
SOIL PREPARATION
For best results, rake out large dirt clods and rocks into a smooth, even grade. Next, add gypsum (40 pounds per 1000 square feet) and mulch (1 bag for every 300 square feet). Set out bags of gypsum and mulch and then rake into the top 2 inches of soil. If you have a heavily compacted and rocky soil, add gypsum and mulch by rototilling into the top 4-6 inches.
SOD INSTALLATION
At least a week before your sod is delivered, make sure that all sprinkler trenches and soil is settled by running your sprinkler system several times. It is important that this is done several days before your sod is delivered so that your soil is dry before you put your sod down. You need dry soil so that when the wheel barrow goes over your grade it won’t change your grade.
1. Fertilize area to be sodded with ammonium phosphate (16-20-0) at a rate of 10 pounds of fertilizer for every 1,000 square feet. Example: If you’re sodding 1,700 square feet, you’ll need 17 pounds of fertilizer.
2. Lay the sod like a brick layer lays bricks. Start by laying the sod along a straight edge such as a walk, driveway or back wall. It’s best to start at the back and work towards the front. Put one piece of sod out and lay in one straight line continuing the row. As you begin the second row, cut the first piece of sod in half and complete that row. And when you begin to lay the third row, leave the first piece whole and continue.
3. Bump up seams tightly together. It’s best to cut the sod with a serrated steak knife.
4. After sod is laid, lightly water and go over freshly sodded area with a lawn roller. The rolling removes the air pockets between the sod and soil and helps it root faster. “Rolling” will not “magically” transform your grade. If the grade is uneven to start with, it will remain uneven.
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