Getting your site ready for sod installation is crucial for achieving a lush, healthy lawn. Here are the essential steps to prepare your site effectively:

1. Clear the Site

Begin by removing all building materials, such as wood, cement, and bricks. Also, clear away any buried stumps, rocks, stones, or other debris larger than 2-3 inches in diameter.

2. Rough Grade the Area

Next, “rough grade” the area to address any drainage issues. Ensure the ground slopes away from building foundations, reduce severe slopes, and fill in low-lying areas. Use a tractor-mounted box blade for large areas and hand tools for smaller spaces. This step might uncover additional debris that needs to be removed.

3. Till the Soil

Perform initial tilling to a depth of at least 2 inches before adding soil amendments. This will control most annual weeds, alleviate subsoil compaction, and improve root penetration, air exchange, and water movement. If you don’t plan to add new topsoil, till to a depth of 4-6 inches.

4. Add Topsoil

Add high-quality topsoil to achieve a total depth of 4-6 inches after firming. If possible, incorporate a nutrient-rich compost/soil blend. (We recommend BigYellowBag Black Garden Soil, which is available for delivery within certain zones.)

5. Test the Soil pH

Take a soil sample to your local garden center or county Cooperative Extension office. Turfgrass typically grows best in slightly acidic soils with a pH of around 6.5. If your soil is too alkaline (pH of 7.5 or higher), add sulfur or gypsum. For acidic soils (pH of 6 or lower), add lime. Incorporate any amendments into the top 3-4 inches of soil.

6. Finish Grade the Site

“Finish grade” the entire site, maintaining the rough grading contours and slopes. The final grade should be approximately ¾ inch below driveways and sidewalks.

7. Apply Fertilizer

Apply a “starter” fertilizer, such as 18-23-12 (N-P-K), at the recommended rate. The middle number, phosphorus, promotes root growth. Ideally, rake the fertilizer into the top 1-2 inches of soil.

8. Settle the Surface

If the soil is loose and fluffy, use a lawn roller to settle the surface. Fill in any low spots. If time allows, let the area settle further with rainfall or irrigation.

By following these steps, you can create a well-prepared site for sod installation, ensuring a thriving and beautiful lawn.