How to Choose Sod for Your Yard

The benefits of selecting sod for your yard has several distinct advantages over merely planting grass seed and hoping it grows, beginning with the success rate of well-chosen sod. Beyond that singular advantage point, sod is thicker in density than ordinary grass, is generally healthier and provides the opportunity for an instant lawn without the wait. A homeowner needs to recognize that not all sod is the same, and there are several features that are always present in sod that will ensure that sod will take hold properly. Knowing the right questions to ask when purchasing sod will provide adequate information to assure the product that is being obtained is appropriate for the intend use and location.

When buying sod, the grass leaves should be at a minimum of 2 inches long - anything shorter means that the seed has not been allowed enough time to form a proper root system. The foliage of the sod should be dense with a consistent healthy color, and thatch should be absent. If thatch is present, it could mean that the sod in question is older and not nearly as desirable as fresh, young sod as a purchase. It is imperative in choosing sod that the roots are vibrant and healthy. This can be discovered easily with a visual inspection and a simple test - good sod is difficult to pull apart with your hands. It is also important in purchasing sod to make certain that it was harvested recently (less than 24 hours) and is well cared for. A good sign of this is sod that is not dripping wet but is well watered.

It is wise in choosing sod to match the variety of sod to the geographical location and the intended usage. A remote and shaded location on a hillside with little traffic requires a different type of sod than a location on a level where children will play frequently, and a wise selection of sod will prevent failure. Attempt to avoid mixtures of differing seed types in sod as they can be problematic, and if one of the seed varieties fail in a given climate your new yard will probably look awful.

You can help the process of choosing sod to a successful conclusion by preparing yourself and your property ahead of time, making sure everything is in place prior to your sod purchase. Prepare the soil in the location where the sod will be installed, and make certain that enough labor is available to complete the project quickly before the sod has a chance to experience stress.