Top 5 Landscaping Tips: How to Make Sure New Sod Survives

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Installing new sod is an excellent way to quickly transform your yard into a lush, green oasis. However, the work doesn't end once the sod is laid down. Proper care in the early stages is crucial to ensure your new lawn establishes well and remains healthy.


Here are the top five tips to make sure your new sod survives and thrives:


1. Prepare the Soil Thoroughly

Before laying your sod, soil preparation is essential. Start by clearing the area of weeds, rocks, debris, and other impediments that could hinder the sod’s ability to root effectively. It’s crucial to ensure the soil is not too compacted; aerating can help improve its structure, allowing roots to penetrate deeply and evenly.


Next, consider the soil's nutrient content. Conducting a soil test can reveal deficiencies that might need correcting, typically with the application of the appropriate type and amount of fertilizer. Balancing the soil pH, usually between 6 and 7.5, depending on the grass type, is also vital for the best growth conditions.


2. Lay the Sod Properly

When it comes time to lay your sod, precision is key. Begin by laying sod along a straight edge, such as a driveway or sidewalk, and make sure the edges of the sod strips butt tightly against each other without overlapping or leaving gaps. Stagger the joints in a brick-like pattern to avoid lines running across the lawn, which can encourage water to channel and erode the soil beneath.


Press down on the sod once laid to ensure good contact with the soil beneath, eliminating air pockets that can dry out roots. For larger areas, consider renting a roller to press the sod evenly.


3. Water Wisely

Watering is perhaps the most crucial part of sod care immediately after installation. The goal is to keep the sod moist but not waterlogged. Begin watering your new lawn within 30 minutes of installation. During the first two weeks, water the sod enough to soak the first few inches of soil, encouraging deep root growth.


Be vigilant with your watering schedule, watering multiple times a day if necessary, to prevent the sod from drying out. However, avoid excessive water pooling, which can suffocate the roots. After the first few weeks, gradually reduce watering to help the roots grow deeper into the soil, seeking moisture.


4. Control Foot Traffic

In the first few weeks after installation, your new sod is vulnerable. Foot traffic can compact the soil, displace the sod, and inhibit root establishment. Keep pets and people off the new sod for at least two weeks. If you must walk on the sod, try to distribute your weight evenly and avoid repeated paths.


5. Mow and Maintain Carefully

The first mowing should take place after the sod has begun to root, typically two to three weeks after installation. Check if the roots are establishing by gently lifting a corner of a sod piece; if there’s resistance, it’s rooting well. When mowing, set your mower to a higher setting to avoid cutting the grass too short, which can stress the plants and lead to disease susceptibility.


Continue to monitor your lawn's health as it establishes. Keep an eye out for signs of pests or diseases. Fertilize appropriately based on the results of your soil test and the specific needs of your grass type. Regular maintenance, including periodic aeration, proper mowing, and timely fertilization, will ensure your new sod develops into a durable, beautiful lawn.


By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful, verdant lawn that not only boosts your property’s curb appeal but also provides a pleasant, green space for your outdoor activities. Remember, the key to sod care is ensuring the roots can establish quickly and deeply, so focusing on soil health, careful watering, and protection in the initial weeks will yield the best results.


Want no-hassle sod?

Leave the work and the worry to us at West Way. We'll install your sod and help you make sure it thrives. Get in touch now.


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When it comes to landscaping around your home, gravel and rocks can play a significant role in creating a beautiful, low-maintenance outdoor space. With a variety of types and sizes available, it's essential to understand the characteristics and benefits of each to make informed decisions for your landscaping projects. In this blog post, we'll explore the different types of gravel and rock a homeowner might use and provide guidance on why and where to use each one. Pea Gravel Pea gravel is a small, round stone that typically measures between 1/4 and 1/2 inch in diameter. Its smooth texture and uniform size make it a popular choice for various landscaping applications. Benefits: Pea gravel is easy to work with and can be spread evenly. It provides excellent drainage, preventing water from pooling on surfaces. The small size of pea gravel creates a compact, stable surface for walkways and patios. Applications: Pathways and walkways Driveways Drainage areas around foundations Filling spaces between pavers or stepping stones Mulch alternative in garden beds River Rock River rocks are larger, rounded stones that have been smoothed by the action of water over time. They come in a range of sizes, from 1 inch to several inches in diameter, and can add a natural, organic feel to your landscape. Benefits: River rocks are durable and long-lasting, withstanding harsh weather conditions. They can help control erosion on slopes and embankments. The varied sizes and colors of river rocks create an attractive, decorative feature. Applications: Dry creek beds and water features Borders and edging around garden beds Accent pieces in rock gardens Ground cover in areas with minimal foot traffic Crushed Stone Crushed stone, also known as angular gravel, is created by mechanically breaking down larger rocks into smaller pieces. It has a more angular shape compared to pea gravel and river rock, providing better compaction and stability. Benefits: Crushed stone offers excellent drainage properties. The angular shape of crushed stone allows it to lock together, creating a stable base for heavy traffic areas. It is available in a variety of sizes, from fine screenings to large chunks. Applications: Driveway and parking area base material Drainage systems and French drains Substrate for pavers and flagstone patios Erosion control on slopes Decomposed Granite Decomposed granite, or DG, is a type of gravel that consists of finely crushed granite particles. It has a soft, sandy texture and is known for its ability to compact well, creating a firm surface. Benefits: Decomposed granite provides a natural, rustic look to landscaping. It is permeable, allowing water to drain through, reducing runoff and erosion. When properly installed and compacted, DG creates a stable, low-maintenance surface. Applications: Pathways and walkways Patios and outdoor living areas Xeriscaping and low-water landscapes Bocce ball courts and outdoor game areas Lava Rock Lava rock is a lightweight, porous stone that is formed from volcanic lava. It has a unique, textured appearance and comes in a range of colors, including red, black, and gray. Benefits: Lava rock is lightweight, making it easy to work with and transport. The porous nature of lava rock allows for excellent drainage. It can help retain moisture in the soil, benefiting plants in dry climates. Applications: Mulch in garden beds and planters Decorative accent pieces in rock gardens Drainage layers in potted plants Landscaping around water features Cobblestones Cobblestones are larger, rounded stones that are typically 3 to 5 inches in diameter. They have a rustic, old-world charm and can add a unique character to your landscape. Benefits : Cobblestones are extremely durable and can withstand heavy foot and vehicle traffic. They provide a natural, timeless look to outdoor spaces. Cobblestones can be arranged in various patterns to create visual interest. Applications: Driveway aprons and borders Walkway and patio edges Permeable paving systems Decorative accents in garden beds Slate Chips Slate chips are small, flat pieces of slate rock that have been crushed and screened to a uniform size. They have a distinctive, layered appearance and come in shades of gray, blue, and purple. Benefits: Slate chips have a low pH, making them ideal for acid-loving plants. They have a unique, decorative appearance that can elevate the look of your landscape. Slate chips are long-lasting and resistant to fading and deterioration. Applications: Mulch in garden beds and borders Pathway and walkway surfacing Drainage areas and rain gardens Decorative elements in rock gardens and water features Choosing the Right Gravel or Rock When selecting gravel or rock for your landscaping project, consider the following factors: Purpose : Determine the primary function of the area, such as drainage, decoration, or stability. Aesthetics : Choose a type and color that complements your home's architecture and existing landscape. Size : Consider the scale of your project and the appropriate size of gravel or rock needed. Maintenance : Think about the level of maintenance you're willing to commit to, as some types may require more upkeep than others. By understanding the characteristics and benefits of each type of gravel and rock, you can make informed decisions when landscaping around your home. Whether you're creating a functional drainage system, an attractive walkway, or a decorative rock garden, the right choice of gravel or rock can enhance the beauty and functionality of your outdoor space. Remember to prepare the area properly, including excavation, weed barrier installation, and edging, to ensure the longevity and success of your landscaping project. With careful planning and the appropriate use of gravel and rock, you can create a low-maintenance, visually appealing landscape that you'll enjoy for years to come. Need help at your home? 🏡 If it's landscaping you need, there's not much we can't handle. We offer fast, friendly, honest, and reliable service. Contact West Way today and see the difference.
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