Our Sod Blog - Jacksonville Sod Masters

Top 3 Errors People Make With New Sod

Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:30:45 GMT

What are the errors people make in their new sod?

A house with a beautiful garden landscape adds life to the surrounding. It will completely transform the whole outdoor area’s view and vibes. May it be residential or commercial property, if the exterior appearance looks great, people will love it. And it is a great property asset that you can have when the time comes that you decide to sell up because it can help you provide a better return on investment.

In the business sector, having a great and well-maintained outdoor space gives every visitor, client, staff, and other people a good vibe that will reflect the company itself. No wonder why more domestic and commercial properties looked for sod services to achieve great results.

You can try making a good DIY or do it yourself garden by installing fresh new sod to your lawn if you don’t want to hire someone. Based on our previous blog says, - Before anything else, you need to clear the area with those unnecessary things or furniture if there is. Start cleaning the area by taking away any debris and pulling those unwanted grass that can be the reason for unhealthy turf. After grooming the site, now it's time to cultivate the soil. Dig for about 15cm in depth and check if you have rich soil. If not, add topsoil to make it perfect for growing plants.

You have to make sure that the cultivated soil is level with the whole area before laying the sod, just like what we have mentioned in our previous blog, “Lay the rolled sod in a brick-wall pattern to make sure that it won't easily come off. Never leave any gaps that can give space to some unwanted grass, and never overlap the edges. It is also important not to walk on the newly installed sod because it can cause them to shift and leave gaps in the edges.” -

What are the top 3 errors people make in their new sod?

Improper preparation - In order to grow green and healthy sod on your lawn, you need to install it properly. One way of doing it is to make sure that there is no unwanted grass on your lawn and that you have healthy soil. But if you are not sure of the soil that you have it is better to add topsoil.
Wrong timing - There is a great season for installing sod , just like everything. We all know that winter is not a great time to install sod or plant one.
Insufficient water - Sod is considered a grass that can easily grow, but that doesn’t mean that it can establish itself without proper guidance and adequate water. It is important to water it daily.

What is the easiest grass to grow in Florida and why?

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 18:29:17 GMT

The type of grass that is easy to grow in Florida

People always find ways to make their home relaxing and secure from any elements like disasters; that is the reason why sometimes we don’t care how much we spend as long as we are living in a place that gives us comfort and protection. One of the ways that give us a relaxing vibe is to surround it with plants, for it cleans the air that we breathe. Plus, it increases your property value if you plan to sell it someday.

If you are new to having plants, installing sod on your lawn is a great start. It will make the surroundings clean and green, which is healthy for our eyesight. But if you don’t really know how to plant and still want those, a landscaping sod company is always ready to work it all for you.

A sod or turf is the key component to having a beautiful carpet like grass in to your yard. But Florida doesn’t have the ideal weather condition to grow the lushest green grass because sometimes it becomes unendurable humidity, too rainy, super salty seaside, excessive heat, or worst is hurricane season.

But there are different types of grass that are easy to grow in Florida, and they are:

Zoysia Grass - It is a type of grass that can tolerate drought, heat, heavy traffic like on a golf course, low maintenance, and other challenges.

Bahia Grass - It is also known as “Paspalum Notatum”. Just like Zoysia Grass, it is tough and can tolerate the Florida climate. But it needs to be mowed every week, and always check out for those weeds because they will frequently pop up in this type of grass.

Bermuda Grass - It is also known as “Cynodon Dactylon”. Just like the two grass, it is tough and can cope up with the state’s climate. But it needs proper maintenance and water routine to remain its beauty all year round.

St. Augustine Grass - It is also known as “Stenotaphrum Secundatum”. It is the most popular in the state because just like the three grass mentioned it can survive in its climate. The only disadvantage to this grass is that since it easily grows fast, you need to keep up with its maintenance.

What is the correct way to lay sod?

Wed, 25 May 2022 18:09:14 GMT

The correct way to lay a fresh new sod

The perk of having a big lawn is that you can choose to have a stunning landscaped garden as you wish to add beauty and a specific area where it helps clean the air that we breathe. That is one reason why some property buyers always choose a house with a back or front yard. And having a garden also means an increase in the market value of the asset if you are the one selling it. It is like a return on investment at the right time that you need it.

To have an attractive landscape garden, you need to install a healthy green sod because it magnifies the hidden beauty of the whole area. And if you have no time to grow some, there are companies that offer sod services that might help you. But if you are patient enough to try and be a green thumb, you need to learn some basic things on how to lay a new sod correctly.

A fresh set of sod is what you will need in order to achieve a lush green lawn, and you can always have that from a trusted supplier. Then prepare all the things you need, like topsoil, sod cutter, water, and the fresh roll of sod.

Before anything else, you need to clear the area with those unnecessary things or furniture if there is. Start cleaning the area by taking away any debris and pulling those unwanted grass that can be the reason for unhealthy turf. After grooming the site, now it's time to cultivate the soil. Dig for about 15cm in depth and check if you have rich soil. If not, you to add topsoil to make it perfect for growing plants.

You have to make sure that the cultivated soil is level with the whole area before laying the sod , just like what we have mentioned in our previous blog, “Lay the rolled sod in a brick-wall pattern to make sure that it won't easily come off. Never leave any gaps that can give space to some unwanted grass, and never overlap the edges. It is also important not to walk on the newly installed sod because it can cause them to shift and leave gaps in the edges.”

What Type of Landscaping Adds The Most Value To Your Home?

Tue, 17 May 2022 17:21:58 GMT

The type of landscape that adds significant value to your home.

A house is not a home if there is no proper maintenance by its owner because they are the one who makes it a home—a place where love and memories are shared. That is one of the aspects that bring value to a home. But what about its physical aspect? How to increase it?

If you are planning to buy a new property and sell your current one, you need to do something to make its property value go up. One of the ways to achieve it is to find a landscaping company to work on a beautiful garden landscape. It will not just boost its market value, but it will also attract many potential buyers.

Why does it add value to a property? What are the benefits of having it?

Aside from making the surroundings attractive, a landscape garden can help you remove the dust particles and smoke, those carbon dioxides that are harmful to us. We may not fully see it but it gives us clean oxygen to breathe. A small way of helping the changing environment.

A landscape garden consists of trees, flower plants, sod, and other types of plants that you want to put in. We all know that trees give us fresh air and shade us from the harmful UV rays of the sun. Flowers make the area captivating especially to those people who love gardens. And those sod, it may not be too important to others but it gives the lawn a lush green appearance that will look like a carpet in the garden.

Speaking of the “garden’s carpet” which is the sod or turf, it takes patience in installing and making it grow healthy. You need to have a fresh cut from the supplier to make sure that it will grow according to what you expect. You need to add fertilizer after the root system has been fully developed, and don’t forget to water the new set of sod twice a day.

The garden’s benefits are an asset to any homeowner, which is why adding it to your for sale property will bring more value to it.

What's The Difference Between Sod & Plugs & Seeding?

Thu, 12 May 2022 17:06:19 GMT

The difference between plugs, sod, and seeding

The plant has its different benefits to people. It is the source of our food, medicine, the clothes we wear, materials for our shelter, our beautiful furniture, protect us from the sun's harmful UV rays, and gives us clean air to breathe. Not just that, it also serves as a natural interior and exterior decoration to our property.

There are different ways on how to make them a great decoration that can give you the benefit of having a natural air purifier. One of those is sod installation . A sod, also known as turf, is a simple grass with a layer of thin soil beneath. It is usually rolled or sliced when harvested since the grass was bound together by its roots.

This humble grass efficiently cleans the air and makes it excellent for us. It is a great way of preventing a flood by draining the water. It can also prevent soil erosion by stabilizing the soil because of its binding roots—no wonder why golf courses use it to have beautiful scenery to play their favorite sport.

For those people who want to try to achieve a “golf course” like lawn, here are some things you need to know. There are three ways on how to have a lush green yard on your property, and these are through installing sod , plugs, or through seeding.

We already know that a sod or turf is a rolled piece of grass with thin soil beneath it. You can just lay it on the ground where you want it to grow and multiply. And it takes 1 to 2 hours to install one pallet of sod. A plug is a single turf grown in a small tray. You should drill holes into the soil to plant it, and it should be installed from 9 to 12 inches from each other to let it spread quickly to the entire area and create a solid root system. And it takes 30 minutes to 4 hours to install grass plugs.

The other one is through seeding. It takes 2 to 4 hours to work on it. Less effort but you will have to wait long weeks to see that result. Just like everything, it needs hard work and patience.

When Should You Fertilize New Sod?

Wed, 04 May 2022 15:58:48 GMT

When is the right time to add fertilizer to a new sod?

We always want to have a beautiful place to live in, and one way of making it attractive is by making sure that it is clean and well maintained. Another way is to have a well-arranged garden or an incredibly lush landscape. It is not just giving the area a great look, but it also serves as an air purifier. And having a sod on your lawn helps prevent soil erosion and cleans dust.

Having a healthy turf can make the surroundings neat and attractive. It may be challenging to maintain it at first, especially if you are always busy with work. But as time goes by, you will eventually get used to it. And if you don't have time to plant those, you can always rely on an expert to have a new sod installation . It is also to make sure that it was done right and for you to gain advice on how to take care of it.

Sod installation can benefit your surroundings, but you need to know the proper process before trying it yourself. It might sound so easy to lay those fresh sod on your lawn, but you will realize that you are doing it wrong. So, what is the right way of installing it?

The first is to make sure you have a fresh set of sod. Prepare the lawn where you will lay those sod by cultivating it. And if you will notice that it is not as rich as how you expect it to be, add some topsoil. Then sprinkle with water and mix it well. Now that the soil is good, you are ready to install the new set of sod. Carefully lay them all and sprinkle some water after. You can add some topsoil to ensure that it is all level.

One of the common questions that we received is, when should we add fertilizer to the new sod? Generally, those fresh turfs have been fertilized at the seller's farm, so you don’t need to add them. It is not advisable to fertilize it if the root system has not been established yet. You need to wait for 30 to 60 days to have it fertilized.

How Often Should You Water New Sod?

Thu, 28 Apr 2022 15:42:11 GMT

How many times does a new sod be watered?

Plants are part of our nature that help us survive in this constantly changing world that we are living in. Just like other elements, it is important for us to take good care of them. One way of doing that is by planting more trees or just having a piece of green lawn to help clean the air that you and your family breathe.

A landscape would be a nice start to doing that. And one of the main characters to that is the humble set of sod. It gives beauty to the surroundings and at the same time prevents soil erosion and mud. It sure does clean the air and surroundings because it has the quality of filtering all the dirt and dust around your area. If you have no idea on how to grow it on your lawn, there are many sod services that can help you with that. But if you are the type of person who wants to try growing it without those expert services, this one is for you.

The first thing you need to do is to clean the area and make sure that there are no other grass and rocks that can be a reason for the new sod to die. Cultivate the soil by digging around 10 to 15 cm deep. After that, you need to add fertilizer to make sure that your effort will not be wasted. And if you will notice that the soil is not a high quality type, you can add a bit of topsoil to mix it up with the fertilizer. Then that is the time that you will install the new sod .

Now, the common question here is how many times do we have to water a new set of sod? So after laying the sod, you need to water it for about 20 minutes, so that the topsoil will be thoroughly mixed with the fertilizer. You need to water it twice every day, morning and afternoon. And that is for two months until the new sod will have roots that can absorb all the nutrients given.

Do I Need To Put Topsoil Down Before Sod?

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 16:51:55 GMT

Is topsoil needed before installing sod?

Growing plants can be rewarding, yet it needs time and patience. It is always rewarding to see that your surroundings become beautiful and give you fresh air to breathe because of your dedication to taking care of those plants. Some people choose flowers while others are up to fruits and vegetables. Others are just into a landscape and prefer having a neat, tuff set.

Sod installation may sound so easy that you can just easily lay every set on the lawn without any sweat and expect to have it lush in the next few weeks. Well, that is one common mistake that most people think of because in order to have a green and healthy sod, you need to know what are the things that you have to do before putting it in the ground. You can not just put it there without doing the proper steps that sod installers did.

In laying a new set of sod, you need to clean the whole area first to avoid any obstacle to its growth. A little dig makes the soil rich and then adds some fertilizer to mix it well. A sprinkle of water to thoroughly combine everything. Now, most people ask if they need to put topsoil down before sod . The answer would depend on the type of soil that is present. If you think that the quality of the ground that you’re digging and adding fertilizer is poor and shallow, which is not suitable for your plant, then that is the right time to add in a rich topsoil to give the needed nutrients to its roots. If you are not confident about how much topsoil you will add to the yard, just measure it at a 15cm depth.

There is no right or wrong in terms of planting, but we just have to follow some guides to achieve the common goal that we want because those set of directions is based on the experience of those sod experts. But if you are struggling and can’t achieve a successful goal, it is best to ask for help from the Jacksonville Sod Masters.

Should You Put Fertilizer Down Before Laying Sod?

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 14:32:56 GMT

Are we going to put fertilizer before laying sod?

A beautiful landscape can always attract every person that looks at it. We can’t help but appreciate it because it is indeed pleasing to our eyes. No wonder why there are people who spend thousands on that alone. It is just worth it. It relaxes our busy thoughts and gives us fresh, clean air as we breathe. That is the least that we could do to contribute to our environment.

When we say landscape, installing sod is one of the essential plants present because it adds beauty and texture to the lawn. It also prevents soil erosion and those unwanted grass that we never want to be there. Some busy people find companies that offer sod services to have a golf course vibe in their yard. At the same time, some are just game to doing it by themselves and making it their pastime.

So to those who love to try it, here are some tips for you. You should know when is the right time to install or lay new sod to avoid wasted effort because Florida might be a Sunshine State, but we still have the winter season, which is not a good time for planting it. And before laying the new sod, we should put fertilizer and mix it on the soil. Why is it before and not after installing the sod? That is to make the soil rich and healthy to give needed nutrients to the new sod. It will help the roots grow firmly into the ground because dry soil without fertilizer will absorb the moisture of the newly installed sod. Once the turf roots are now established, expect to have a green bushy sod. You should also water it appropriately and avoid stepping your foot on the newly installed sod.

Those who find it hard to have time to maintain their landscape garden to be attractive and well managed just search for local companies that can install and do it for you. It is always better to let the experts do what they are doing best.

When Can You Lay Sod in Florida?

Tue, 19 Apr 2022 14:25:37 GMT

The right time to lay sod in the "Sunshine State," Florida.

Florida is one of the most lived states in the country. Thanks to its beautiful beach resorts, recreational parks, cozy warm, and sunny weather. Many people love the advantage of living in the "Sunshine State" because you can enjoy having a healthy, green, and lush yard with different mesmerizing kinds of flowers.

For those people who love the attractive green landscapes, a Jacksonville sod installation companies are a helping mate to have. Not just fulfilling your dream garden but also giving you an expert touch on keeping it healthy and well-maintain turf. But if you are a fan of keeping your hands dirty for your newfound hobby, here is what you need to know about when to do it.

Since this state is considered a tropical place, we do not have to worry about any shortage of our plant's source of sunlight and humidity or watching them die because of freezing temperatures. That means we can lay a new set of sod any time of the year as long as enough warmth is outside. Isn't it great? But sod installers would usually suggest planting it in spring or before summer to have enough time for the roots to grow and establish a firm grip in the soil.

So, when is the time to avoid laying new sod? That is a common question that we all want to know. It is not good to install sod during summer because the extreme heat can dry up all the nutrients inside the sod, and it will eventually die. So, how about fall? Laying sod during fall can be OK. But do not expect to have a healthy sod because this time of the year has it down to surprisingly low temperatures. That means the roots can not establish OK because of the cold weather and may cause some damage to it. The same goes for the winter season.

But to always make sure that you are doing it right, Jacksonville Sod Masters is the one to call to perfectly install the sod on your lawn. We cut it fresh and deliver it for installation. In that way, you can ensure that there is no damage and not dried out, which can be a reason not to have it the way we expect it. And our sod experts have the skills and resources to make it successfully.

What Do You Put Under Sod Before Laying It?

Fri, 15 Apr 2022 10:04:44 GMT

Things to put under sod before laying it on your lawn.

Everyone loves to have a garden where there are many plants, beautiful flowers that bloom, and a perfect landscape. While some people just want to have a flawless carpet like sod.

Every plant has its unique process of making it healthy and green. As for a new set of sod, it is important to have a rich soil preparation to let the roots absorb nutrients and invade healthier into your lawn.

The sod installers use sod cutters to get rid of those unwanted weeds and grass. Because if they are still there, they will quickly invade the whole space and take up the majority of your plant's needed nutrients which is water, sunlight, and soil. And that would eventually make the sod die.

They will also make sure that there is no presence of rocks or any waste matters that can harm their growth. If there is, they will remove it from there. Then they will cultivate the soil for about 15 cm in depth. And to make sure that it is good, they will test the soil’s pH. Then after that, they will put fertilizer while plowing it, and add some topsoil as needed to level it to your lawn. And then they will roll it to make sure that the soil is even.

After all those preparations, it is time to lay the sod. But before that, we should sprinkle some water using a hose or sprinkler to make the soil damped. Lay the rolled sod in a brick-wall pattern to make sure that it won't easily come off. Never leave any gaps that can give space to some unwanted grass, and never overlap the edges. It is also important not to walk on the newly installed sod because it can cause them to shift and leave gaps in the edges. We should water them twice a day until there are roots that combine and reaches the soil and that's about 2 to 6 weeks. And we should never forget to put fertilizer after weeks of installing it to ensure that it will grow healthier.

Sod Grass Maintenance

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 21:12:53 GMT

How To Maintain Sod After Installation

Sod growers need to fertilize their crops, and most do so with an organic fertilizer that has three major macronutrients — nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium — along with minor nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and sulfur, which are often included in the form of micronutrients (trace elements).

A typical commercial blend might be 5-5-2, meaning it contains 5 percent nitrogen, 5 percent phosphorus, and 2 percent potassium. It also might include micronutrients such as calcium and magnesium.

There's so much to know about proper sod installation which is why we always recommend talking with a professional.

How Do We Get Nutrients in Grass Roots To Grow?

The basic elements that make up most living things are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Together they’re known as NPK. Plants require nutrients to grow and thrive. Plants need NPK in order to grow—each plays a critical role in plant growth.

Here's how each element works:

NITROGEN - helps plants produce chlorophyll, which is essential for photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is when plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into glucose, which provides energy for growth.

PHOSPHORUS - promotes root development and helps with seed germination.

POTASSIUM - improves the overall health of plants by helping them fight off disease and pests like insects or weeds, while also supporting fruit production by increasing water uptake in fruits and vegetables.

Applying These Nutrients To Your Lawn:

Nitrogen

During warm months, grass typically takes in most of its nitrogen needs from rain and irrigation water. During fall and winter, when temperatures are cooler and soil moisture is not available as a source of nitrogen, applications of fertilizer are needed to help grass keep growing.

Some areas may need additional nitrogen applications in late spring to promote vigorous growth because rapid leaf development then provides additional energy for growing roots. Proper use of organic fertilizer reduces reliance on synthetic chemicals that can harm people, animals and waterways; it also improves topsoil structure while avoiding reliance on hard-to-obtain natural materials like blood meal.

Phosphorus

This mineral is required by all plant life. Without phosphorus, it becomes difficult for plants to transport sugars through their vascular systems and they become weak and stunted.

It’s important to know that too much phosphorus can be just as bad as not enough. Plants that have been fertilized with too much of it will develop hardiness that makes them more susceptible to cold temperatures.

Organic sources of phosphorus are generally preferred over inorganic ones because they are more readily available and because they release their nutrients over time instead of all at once.

Potassium

Provides vigor, promotes growth, and adds disease resistance. It also helps to improve soil structure and therefore water infiltration. Potassium should be applied at a rate of 30 lbs per 1,000 sq ft annually.

The best source of potassium is wood ash; however, it isn’t advisable to put large amounts into your lawn as it will cause an over-fertilization which leads to excessive growth and weakened roots - something we don’t want!

Another great source is greensand (mostly potassium) which can be purchased at any nursery or hardware store.

How Does Sod Fertilizer Affect My Grass?

If you’re thinking about sod for your lawn , it’s likely because you like how it looks and want to get a head start on spring. But before you start planting, consider that your new grass will need fertilizer to thrive in its new home.

Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a fertilizer for your new sod lawn:

Know What Type of Grass You’re Planting In Your Yard

Different types of grass need different types of fertilizer. For example, some grass needs higher amounts of nitrogen while some don’t require any at all.

If you aren’t sure what type of grass you want to plant or what type is already growing in your yard, give us a call before buying any sod or fertilizer. And don't forget to ask about our soil preparation process too.

What Type Of Soil Exists?

Your soil type can make a big difference when it comes to how much fertilizer you should use. Sandy soils don’t hold nutrients well and need more fertilizing than clay soils do.

How Much Fertilizer Do I Need?

The amount of fertilizer you need depends on how much space you have and how long it will take for your new lawn to grow enough roots for good root growth. This is why it’s important to know what kind of grass you are planting and if there are weeds present that might be competing with your new lawn for nutrients.

Can You Compost Sod?

Tue, 12 Apr 2022 15:50:38 GMT

Is it possible to compost sod?

If you are working on a sod installation project and happen to have extra sod at the end, there’s some easy ways to handle it. Most times, you can just use the extra pieces in different areas of the lawn.

There’s often one rough patch in a yard somewhere (under a tree, near the house, behind the garage, etc.) that could use a little help. This is the perfect place to reuse the sod and save the money. Just make sure to prepare the soil properly in this new spot before laying the sod.

But what if you just so happen to have everything looking great in your yard and you still have extra sod. Can you compost sod to get rid of it? The answer is yes! And here’s what you need to know.

Sod needs to be composted correctly to prevent it from accidentally taking root in your compost pile. That wouldn’t be fun. So here’s the process.

Find a place where you can store this compost pile if you don’t have one already. Next, begin stacking the sod pieces FACE DOWN in a pile. By face down, we mean with the grass on the bottom and the dirt on top (upside down from how you normally lay it). You can stack pieces up to about 3-4 feet tall. Make new piles if needed.

Turning the sod upside down prevents the roots from taking hold in the ground. You're allowing gravity to stop the rooting process instead of helping it.

Once you have your pile finished, spray some water on the entire pile to just dampen everything. Do not overwater and soak it. This water will help speed up the decomposition process for composting.

Finally, get a thick black tarp and cover the entire sod pile so no sunlight gets in. Sunlight is another factor that helps grass grow. We are doing the absolute opposite of every step that helps sod grow when we are trying to compost it. With no sunlight, the grass roots will struggle and eventually die in the sod pile, thus creating a nice compost to use.

Depending on the quality of the sod, it could take several weeks or even a full season to completely decompose. But you are now on the right path to compost sod with this process and you can use it for other gardening aspects soon.

How Long Does Sod Take To Root

Thu, 31 Mar 2022 17:55:42 GMT

How long does new sod take to fully take root?

This is a common question we get from clients. The answer is that sometimes it depends. It can depend on which type of sod installed and how your yard was prepared for sod .

The answer we give to our clients is often sod takes root in 10-15 days in Jacksonville summer season. And it could take closer to 20-30 days in our winter season.

As long as you are water properly, the grass roots should grow quickly. Don't over-water the sod, but a good 20 minutes twice a days in the first week and gradually reduce it until 4 weeks have passed.

This is just a recommendation and can change depending on the circumstances. Contact us for a quote on sod installation services to have us professionally handle it for you!

Should I Rototill Before Laying Sod

Tue, 18 Jan 2022 17:30:18 GMT

Do You Need To Rotorill Before Laying New Sod?

There's plenty of options out there online for how to prepare the soil for new sod . We even created a page on that. One of the questions that always comes up is whether or not you should rototill before laying sod.

In our opinion - Yes you should rototill the ground before laying sod.

Why You Should Rototill

The whole point of laying new sod is to have a beautiful yard right? And you can either lay sod yourself or hire a company like us to do the sod installation in Jacksonville for you.

Sod is simply grass that's been cut from one location and intended to be installed in another location. So you want to make that new location as acceptable to the new sod as possible.

Since grass needs strong roots to take hold and prosper, the point of rototilling is to loosen the ground. By loosening the ground, we do 3 main things:

We give the grass roots space to grow into with the loosened dirt
We bring oxygen down into the soil which the grass roots like
We allow water to easily reach the grass roots

These are all important aspects for grass to take root, grow strong and bring you the beautiful yard you want. Yes the process adds extra work if you're doing this yourself. But you could also call our team to install the sod for you and we will handle everything. We will rototill the ground for you and you get to simply enjoy the benefits!

What is Rototilling?

Rototilling is just a fancy way of saying loosen the ground. There are machines you can buy or rent called rototillers that are designed to do just that. They break up the ground where the sod will be laid.

You don't necessarily need a rototilling machine to do this though. You can use a shovel or garden rake. The goal is to loosen the top 2 inches of earth. How you accomplish that is up to you.

How To Water And Care For Sod

Mon, 29 Nov 2021 22:26:11 GMT

Be Sure To Properly Care For New Sod

Having a hard time thinking about your new sod and what to do about it? Want to make sure that it will grow strong and healthy? You don't need to worry because you are at the right place, at the right time and the right answer will be on your way. Because Jacksonville Sod brings your worry away.

New Sod Needs Proper Care

For you to achieve the outcome you want and wish for your new sod, giving attention and care to it is a must. Just like anything in this world when it is new, certain adjustments and actions are needed. But always remember that too much cannot be good as well. So moderation is very essential.

The First Two Weeks Can Make Or Break Your New Sod!!!

When your sod is newly installed, there are things needed to consider and actions need to take. So that you can make sure that your new sod will grow properly. The process of sod to make connection to the soil and have roots will take 10-14days. So during this period it needs to be taken care of properly.

Never Walk On New Sod

To make sure that all sod will grow and will not die, avoid walking into it so that the roots will make their own way of survival. Because if there are some parts of the sod that will be stepped on, it will not be balanced. There are some who grow healthy and the others will stop growing. So let two weeks pass before stepping into it.

Water Often - But Not Too Much

Watering your new sod is very much important for it to grow healthy and keep it moist. You can do it once or twice a day, it will depend on the temperature of the surroundings and the weather condition as well. Make sure not to over do it because it can cause the sod to die. Check also if the soil is getting the water, because there are times that the sod is too close and tight which does not allow the water to go through it.

Here's what we recommend for sod installation in Jacksonville Florida - twice per day for week 1 and then once per day in weeks 2-3. Not all areas of Florida are the same, so check with your local specialist. That's a common recipe for success with watering for most clients and it shouldn't hurt you or your new sod.

Don't Fertilize Too Soon

Putting fertilizer is great because it will help the sod to grow properly and healthy. But doing it too early can damage the sod and stop its maturity which is not good. It will not help your sod at all. You need to wait for it to be fully matured and ready to receive fertilizers.

Get Great Tips On Sod And Landscaping

When doing something that is new to you, learning from the experts is very important for you not to make mistakes that you will regret. But no need to worry because Jacksonville Sod has the knowledge and experience to share with you to maintain the beauty of your new sod.

Compact Soil And Sod

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:19:54 GMT

Sod-laying and when to use compacted topsoil

Sod is basically sections of grass that have already grown, and a small part of the soil beneath it held together by the root system or in some cases by a thin layer of biodegradable material.

Sod are usually used in landscaping which is one of the fastest and easiest ways to increase the value of a home. It’s used to beautify lawns for private homes, business, parks, schools, recreational fields, and the like. Additionally, sod can also be used in golf courses and sports stadiums. Indeed, sods can be of different uses, they can also be used to counteract erosion on hillsides and new construction sites. Sod can also improve cooling during the heat as plants release water vapor when they get hot, because of this, sod can also improve air and water quality in the immediate area it is planted to. Sods can also help to prevent flooding in the immediate are as it helps drain the water and divert it to the ground.

Different types of grass grow better under different conditions that’s why there are also different types of sod. Some of the types of sod are Bermuda grass which is tolerant to foot traffic and drought conditions; Bella Bluegrass which is ideal in areas that are trying to conserve water, because it is highly drought resistant and grows well even in poor soil conditions; St. Augustine which do not do well in the cold however is resistant to pests especially the chinch bug; and Centipede which has a wider blade with a coarser appearance than other but is also considered to be low maintenance and can maintain its color even during the fall and then turns green early in the spring.

Sod is planted and then harvested for a period of 10-18 months depending on the variety. The growth rate also depends on the climate conditions of the farm and on other factors such as fertilizers used and the like. When harvested, it could be sold in several ways – it could either be as a square slab or a rolled rectangle. Square slabs are easier to handle for private homeowners while a rolled rectangle is typically used for new lawn installation or major repair projects or in bigger, commercial installations.

There are two ways on how to put grass in landscapes, it could either be grass seed or sod. Sod can provide immediate cover and stabilization. Sod can be planted anytime of the year unlike seeds in which cultivation time is limited to when temperatures are neither too hot nor cold. Sod installation is easier because it is already established, unlike grass seed which can easily be blown or washed away or may fail to germinate. However, the cost of sod is much more expensive than grass seed, and there are more varieties of grass seed than sod to choose from. Also, proper preparation of the soil is required to ensure that the sod is correctly and successfully installed.

When installing sod , it is important to compact the soil before adding the sod strips. Areas that are too loose or too compacted will cause uneven growth, poor rooting and potentially compaction as well if the roots have nowhere to go. During this time, the role of topsoil enters.

Topsoil is the top layer of the soil. Topsoil is rich in organic matter that holds not only moisture, but also beneficial microbial life that contributes nutrients for healthy plant growth. Topsoil helps in maintaining the quality, structure, and moisture levels in the soil. Topsoil also provides nutrients for plants as it breaks down organic matter into plant-available forms for the plant to consume. Because of these reasons, it’s important that sods are laid on top of compacted soil that has been mixed with appropriate fertilizers.

Compacted topsoil is only needed in cases where it is needed to fill areas that are too loose to prevent uneven growth and poor rooting. However, if topsoil is to be used in areas that are too hard, then it doesn’t need to be compacted but only filled. So, when laying sod, it is important to make sure to prepare the ground , that the surface is even and that the soil is loose enough to ensure that there aren’t any large dips or rises.

There are also measures on the amount of topsoil to be put. If sod is to be laid in an area that is already covered with topsoil, it is only ideal to use about a pound and a half of topsoil per square foot. If it is to be added to hard soil or in areas where there isn’t enough topsoil, then it is ideal to add as much topsoil needed to ensure that the ground is soft and loose. Topsoil can be purchased in bags or by yards.

Sod-laying is relatively easy and quick to install provided that the right steps and guidelines are followed. The first step is to select the ideal type of sod which will suit the climate and conditions in the immediate area. This can be done by purchasing a test kit to have the soil examined in a lab. This will help in choosing the ideal variety suited to the condition of the given soil.

Can you lay sod over existing grass?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:19:52 GMT

Laying Sod Over Existing Grass... Should You??

Yes you can lay sod over existing grass if done correctly. In fact, one of the creative ways to supercharge your lawn is to lay new sod over the ground with some existing grass. Sodding your seemingly dead lawn is one of the easiest ways to shed some greenery and life into it. There are 2 ways to lay sod on the ground. You may either use a spade or a sod cutter. Just like any other plant, the sod will root itself into the soil or ground. All it needs is regular watering and spraying of fertilizer.

Make the Best of Your New Sod

On sod installation day, make sure that the ground had been watered early on. It also helps to allow the sod to settle in for about two weeks before walking or mowing it. Knowing when and how much water sod needs can help maintain a healthy and vibrant lawn. For drought-resistant sod like St. Augustine and Zoysia grasses, regular watering can help them thrive better.

Do I Need A Professional To Lay Sod?

Essentially, sod installation is quite easy and you can do it yourself. However, it can also be time-consuming and if you have a sizable lawn, hiring a professional may be the better choice. Some companies are truly professional with their sod services , like us!

As you scout through your lawn, perhaps you are wondering where you should start sodding. This is where the expertise of professional landscapers comes in. They can provide the right service for the right size of your lawn and the type of sod you intend to install.

Advantages of Hiring A Sod Professional

Sodding needs careful installation to ensure that the roots will properly anchor into the soil.
Professionals underwent extensive training in providing the services that you and your lawn need.
They can work well with any size and type of space, allowing you to optimize the property.
Hiring a professional allows you to devote your time to other pressing matters while they get your sodding done in no time.

The Amazing Benefits of Laying Sod On Your Lawn

One of the many benefits that you can take advantage of laying sod over your lawn is better drainage. Generally, a nicely laid sod also offers a low-maintenance lawn. Once the sod gains a proper grip on the ground, it will now require less irrigation or watering system. It tends to thrive on its own while giving you gorgeous greenery in your yard.

Is Soil Preparation Necessary for Sod Installation Success?

One of the best ways to achieve success in your endeavors is to give it your best. Similarly, to attain a successful sod installation, it needs the right soil preparation. One of the best ways to ensure that the soil is prepared before the installation is to moisten it a few hours before laying the sod. This helps the sod flourish while you enjoy a fresh-looking ambiance.

Soil Prepration Includes:

Aside from moistening the ground hours before installation, there are other ways to prepare the soil . This includes pH and nutrients testing, topsoil removal, subsoiling, and aeration. Testing the soil pH is the process of measuring the acid and alkaline components of the soil. Remember that the type of soil varies in every place, hence, it is best to ensure that it is healthy and ready for the new sod installation.

When is the best time to lay sod?

Although late fall or early spring can be a good choice to install your new sod, late spring or early summer sod installation can be a better time option. Late spring offers your sod more time to grow before the hot and humid climate comes. An early summer installation, on the other hand, allows your sod to grow and thrive before the winter sets in. It also helps alleviate water stress for the sod during wintertime.

Should I get sod that is drought-resistant?

Living in Jacksonville, FL, this isn't as big of a concern. If you live in a low rainfall area, it may be best to choose a drought-tolerant type of sod. Among these are buffalo grass, bahiagrass, or Bermuda grass. Investing in these types of sod can be worthwhile although it needs some occasional watering. They can survive in little water and with less fertilization.

Get the Best Sod Installation Provider in Jacksonville

Whether your lawn is too wide or you simply do not know how to install the sod, finding the best provider can help you jumpstart the beauty of your lawn. Thus, it is crucial to find a qualified and highly skilled sod installation team that can provide the outcome that you desire for your lawn.

Contact Jacksonville Sod Masters today!

How to Prepare Soil For New Sod

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 16:15:47 GMT

Here's how you can get your yard and soil ready for fresh new sod

Every day seems to be so plain and boring, not seeing any life and color in your land area. Want to have a change and see a wonderful lawn? Something that you can be proud of sharing to your neighborhoods? Sod installation is definitely the answer to your worries and Jacksonville Sod is here to rescue you. Contact us for a quote.

Prepare The Soil

Soil should be ready and always considered when you are planning a sod installation . Soil is like everything, it needs to be ready first, for it to fulfill its task correctly and not end up failing. Planning and testing is very important to ensure a great outcome. And there are so many ways to make your soil, a prepared one and always on the roll.

It's Important To Do A Soil Test

Knowing what your soil nutrients are is very important. You will also know if there is something needed to lessen or to add to get the right nutrients your sod needs. Through this you can identify the soil pH and with that you can make an action into it. If you are able to do this, you can stop possible problems your lawn can experience in the future.

Clean The Ground of Debris

To be sure that the sod can properly grow and get what it needs, a clean area is a must. Removing unnecessary things in the area that can hinder the nutrients that sod needs is essential. Making sure that the soil is evenly and properly distributed in the area will make it easier to install the sod.

Tilling, Fertilizer and Organic Compounds

A healthy soil makes a healthy lawn. With the help of fertilizers, organics and compost the lawn can make stronger roots and can grow healthier. It allows the soil to create nutrients and feeds microorganisms that will help the sod.

Allow the Soil to Settle

Allowing the soil to settle will make the foundation better. Adding some water to it will make it more ready for the sod installation in Jacksonville .

Benefits of Proper Soil Preparation

Having a proper soil preparation is very important because it plays a big role in the outcome and the possible happenings in the sod after installing it. The condition of the soil will reflect in the sod that will be installed. That's why if you want a great lawn, you should invest in making a proper preparation for it.

One of the best benefits it could give is that your lawn will reduce the use of water by 20%-30% because your lawn will have proper irrigation. And with that it will not consume so much of your time.

Hiring A Professional Sod Installer or Landscaper

Hiring a professional landscaper or Sod installer will make things easier for you. It guarantees you that everything will be right and perfect. All you need to do is to wait for them to finish your dream lawn. And Jacksonville Sod is one call away in making that happen.