Advantages

• Installing sod is a common way of establishing a new lawn. Sod is available as grass strips grown and established by commercial farmers that provide an instant lawn the minute they are laid. It is easy to install over slopes, hills or other areas prone to erosion. You can lay sod at any time during the growing season.
  
  

Disadvantages

• Sod is expensive than seed because it includes all costs incurred during its growth and establishment, along with the farmer's labor costs. Also, there are not many varieties of grass to choose from, which can be a problem in areas prone to excessive shade.
  
  

Preparation

• Prepare the soil where you want to install sod three to four weeks before you lay it. Remove existing vegetation over the area by hand or use a weed killer for large infestations. Slope the area away from the house or any building by digging 3 inches deeper after every 20 to 25 feet. Loosen the soil to a depth of 5 inches and spread fresh topsoil over the area that compacts down to 5 inches thick. Most grasses thrive in a pH between 6 and 7, so spread limestone and 10-20-10 starter fertilizer over the soil and mix well. Till 2 inches of compost or manure to the soil and rake to give it a smooth finish.
  
  

Procedure

• Prior to installation, ensure that the sod strips are at least 1 inch thick. Hose the soil lightly so it is evenly moist. Lay the sod against the straightest, longest part of the yard and begin unrolling it. Cut any excess off with a sharp knife. Stagger subsequent rolls for a natural looking lawn and place adjacent strips flush against one another. Cut sod into smaller strips to fill gaps or cover tiny areas. Soak the sod with a hose immediately after installation. Run a lawn roller over slightly-dried sod to establish good contact with the roots and remove air pockets.
  
  

Considerations

• Although you can lay the sod anytime in the growing season, consider installing it in early fall or late summer when it usually establishes rapidly. Avoid installing sod during mid-summer when the climate is extremely hot and dry because frequent watering necessary during establishment may cause diseases such as Phythium blight. If immediate installation of sod after delivery is not possible, lay the rolls in a shaded part of your yard and mist the roots frequently. Avoid installing it later than 36 hours after it is cut.