When many people think about installing or updating their landscape features, they usually think about the spring and summer. But fall and winter can be a great time to start new plantings, including the installation of a beautiful sod lawn. Learn more about the answers to common questions about sod planting in fall and winter.
Can You Lay Sod in Fall or Winter?
The answer to this question is often 'yes', but it depends on a few factors. First, the harshness of the weather when you want to plant will make a big difference. You don't want new roots to freeze before they can take hold. So fall is usually a better time than the middle of winter, but it depends on when (or if) your ground freezes.
In addition, some types of grass are more amenable to cold weather planting than others. Early fall is often a great time to plant warm weather grasses, such as zoysia or centipede grass, so they will benefit from the lack of extreme cold that may come later in winter. Cool-season grass, like Kentucky bluegrass, though, may be successfully planted in colder conditions.
What Are the Benefits of Fall Plantings?
Just because you can plant sod in the fall or winter, does this mean you should? In fact, cold weather planting can have perks over hot weather planting. In fall and winter, the harsh summer sun is gone, so water won't evaporate as quickly and new grass won't get scorched. Rainy months provide more moisture for new grass roots, reducing the amount of work you have to do for preparation and maintenance.
Aside from the cool temperatures and moisture, new sod may also benefit from the lack of activity that fall or winter brings. You may not be using the lawn as much or entertaining on it when it's cold. Pets may not scamper about on the grass and wildlife may also be more dormant. And because many other elements of your landscape are dormant, you can put more of your attention on caring for the new sod.
How Can You Prepare for Fall Sod?
Most of the preparation for fall sod planting is similar to warm weather installation. You'll need to clear the area where it will be installed and level it. Grading is important when planting in a rainier season so that rain and snow don't run off to quickly or pool in the wrong areas and inhibit new growth.
The biggest area to give attention to is what is known as the root zone. The root zone is the soil where the new roots will take hold. Soil testing is a good idea so that you can target the specific needs of your type of grass — in areas like pH levels, mineral content, and fertilizer materials. Because it's naturally harder for roots to get a good start during the off-season, perfect soil conditions will make things easier.
Where Can You Learn More?
No matter whether you want to benefit from the wet and cool fall or make your lawn healthy before the rigors of next summer, planting sod in the cold months can be the right move. But it calls for preparation, smart use of grass types, and targeted care. An experienced sod professional is the best ally you can have to make this project successful.
At Novasack Turf Farms, we know what it takes to create a fantastic new lawn during any season. Call today to talk with one of our grass experts about your particular landscape and goals. And then you can start working on your yard makeover tomorrow.
