There are 9 simple steps towards having a lush, green Lach Sod Farms lawn.

STEP 1 Which blend of Bluegrass sod is needed for my project?

When it comes time to decide what type of sod you require for your particular project, please contact us.

STEP 2 How much sod do I order?

Sod is sold by 9 foot square rolls or one square yard. Each pallet contains 70 square yards. Please use our Volume Calculator to determine how much sod you will need for your project.

You will need to choose a shape (or combination of shapes) that most closely match the area to be sodded, in order to calculate the amount of land involved. Please use our Shapes and Formulas document as a guide.

Should you require any additional assistance, please contact us.

STEP 3 How do I prepare the site for sod?

It is important to have your site prepared before ordering sod:

1. Clear and grade the area, removing all rocks, stumps, weeds or other debris.
2. Apply and level a 3-4 inch layer of quality topsoil.
3. Optional: Apply a starter fertilizer to promote strong root growth. See Step 7 for fertilizing tips.
4. Rake and pack the area to be sodded, then fill low spots to avoid depressions.

Lach Sod Farms provides an order and delivery service. Our friendly and efficient drivers arrive on site with their own forklifts to place your sod in the most convenient spot possible for your project.

STEP 4 How do I properly install the sod?

1. Sod it perishable. It is recommended that you lay your sod immediately after delivery.
2. Water prepared area lightly to settle soil and provide a moist base for the roots. This will also cool the soil, reducing stress on the roots of the fresh sod, (most important during hot summer days).
3. Lay the sod. Start along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk. Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners, etc. Avoid leaving small pieces, as they will not retain moisture well. Place the sod pieces across a slope.
4. Roll or pack over the entire area to improve sod/soil contact and remove air pockets.
5. See Step 7 for fertilizing tips.

STEP 5 How do I properly maintain sod?

WATERING -- Water your new grass immediately after installation.

1. To check your water level, pull back the corner of the sod piece. The underlying soil should be very moist.
2. Make sure water is getting to all areas of your lawn.
3. Edges along asphalt and concrete, corners, areas near buildings, as well as places on top of embankments and mounds often dry out fastest.
4. At first, water daily or more often, keeping sod moist until it is firmly rooted (about 2 weeks). Later, depending on weather conditions, water less frequently but enough so that water will penetrate deeper into the root zone.
5. Water as early in the morning as possible to avoid evaporation due to sun and wind.

STEP 6 How do I return empty pallets?

For your convenience, we will send our pallet pickup driver to recover our pallets a few days after delivery.  Please have them free of debris or sod pieces and as close to the street as possible where they will be visible to our driver.

STEP 7 How do I fertilize my freshly laid sod (A) and/or established sod (B)

FERTILIZING -- Fertilizers usually contain the following:

1. Nitrogen (for lush green leaf growth)
2. Phosphorus (for root growth)
3. Potassium--Potash (increases resistance to disease and drought)

(A) Freshly Laid Sod: It is recommended that you choose a fertilizer higher in phosphorus, such as 10-20-10 to promote root growth and establish sod quicker.

(B) Established Sod: We recommend that you fertilize your established sod 3 times per year:

1. spring (Apr/May): Use a fertilizer higher in nitrogen for a quick green-up.
2. summer (Jun/Jul): A balanced blend of all fertilizer requirements will result in a lush, thick, dark green and healthy turf.
3. fall (Aug/Sep): A winterizer fertilizer higher in phosphorus will promote a stronger root development to meet our harsh winters.

Apply fertilizer carefully on a dry lawn and water heavily following application. This prevents the grass from burning and washes fertilizer to the roots, where it is best absorbed for use by the plant.

WARNING -- Always consult a professional and follow directions accurately for proper application of fertilizer!

STEP 8 How do I properly mow sod?

MOWING -- It is suggested that you wait at least 7 days, or until the grass has started to root before you mow your new lawn.  After one week, try lifting one of the pieces of sod.  If it comes up easily, it is too early to cut.

After your sod has rooted, the ideal cutting height is between 2-3 inches.

It is recommended that you mow often, generally removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height. Keep your mower blade sharp for a nice, clean cut.

STEP 9 Enjoy your new sod!