If you choose to install sod in your yard, you can get a healthy, green lawn quickly. However, once the sod is in place, it needs time to establish roots in the soil. Healthy new roots give grass valuable nutrients and moisture. A strong root system also ensures your lawn can withstand the stresses of drought, insects, and disease down the road.
Several elements can hinder or boost the ability of roots to successfully take hold of the soil. Read further to learn more about these three factors that impact root development in new sod.
1. The Amount of Water Sod Receives
Regular irrigation prevents sod from drying out while those new roots grow. When you water your new lawn, the water needs to penetrate below the sod layer and saturate the soil beneath. Damp soil helps sod stay moist and helps the grass grow longer roots and attach them deeper in the soil.
Insufficient water during the rooting season not only prevents sod from taking root, but it kills delicate new roots that may have already begun to grow. Too little water during the first two weeks is likely to result in sod that turns brown and dies.
Conscientious homeowners sometimes water sod too much, creating puddles. Wet conditions like these drown existing roots and encourage the growth of mold and fungus. Insects are also attracted to boggy conditions. Stop watering before you see standing water on your lawn.
2. The Soil Beneath the Sod
Sod rooting takes place best on carefully prepared soil of the right consistency that contains necessary nutrients. Roots need to be able to penetrate soil particles easily to establish root systems. Nutrients then provide grass with the food it needs for roots to continue to grow and flourish.
Soil condition is closely tied to water retention, which affects the ability of sod to grow roots. Clay soil is very dense and holds onto water. This soil type tends to become water-logged and inhibits healthy root growth. On the other hand, sandy soil lets water drain too quickly and can dry out sod and their roots.
You can help these soil types better regulate water retention when you add organic matter. Doing so also adds valuable nutrients and promotes air circulation, which helps the grass grow.
One easy way to prepare soil for sod is to simply add a
six-inch layer of topsoil rather than work the entire soil site. This method ensures the soil beneath the sod contains the right organic and inorganic ingredients new roots need to thrive.
Finally, apply a slow-release fertilizer that provides a continuous supply of nutrients while roots take hold and lengthen. Phosphorus works best for new root development, while potassium and nitrogen are helpful once roots take hold.
3. The Way You Treat Your Sod
In ideal conditions, sod usually begins to form new roots in about a week. You still have to be careful with how you treat your sod. Some activities can disturb or crush delicate roots, interrupt their growth, and cause them to die.
Stay off the new sod, and don't mow until grass blades show signs of growth and you are sure roots can hold the sod firmly into the ground. Check to make sure the sod has attached by gently trying to lift a corner of sod. Sod should be hard to lift. Do this in several different places in the yard to check for consistent root development.
Ready for new sod in your yard? Novasack Turf Farm has sod ready for you to install.
Call us and we'll help you determine the right amount of sod needed for your yard — we can also help you prepare and care for your grass to ensure its long-term success.
