Grassroots Sod Call (913) 201-2042

Site Preparation

If the site is not properly prepared, there will be numerous obstacles when trying to grow healthy sod. There are two important components to preparing the site and the soil for sod installation – soil preparation and grading.

Soil Preparation

  • Remove all leftover debris and rocks

  • Till the soil to a depth of 2-4 inches and bring to a rough grade
  • Ensure there are no low spots in the soil that will acquire standing water
  • Add topsoil if the current soil is not adequate for grass growth

Grading

  • Final grading (raking) can take place the same day the sod is applied, or up to a week in advance
  • Rake the soil to 1½ inch below any nearby driveways or sidewalks and a ½ inch lower than the existing grass
  • Remove all sticks and rocks larger than 2 inches in size

Installing Sod

Once the sod is on-site, it is best to install it immediately. Remember, sod is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to stay healthy.

  • Start at a straight edge, like a sidewalk or driveway, or use a string
  • Stagger pieces similar to how brickwork is laid out

  • Butt all edges and sides tightly, but do not overlap

  • Compress or pull each piece together to its original length (stretching sod will cause open seams once it dries)
  • Work from the finished sod area rather than the soil when possible
  • When trimming, use a spade or sod knife; this is helpful when trimming ends around irregular shapes
  • Tamp down pieces with a shovel or your foot to remove bumps
  • When applying sod to steep slopes or areas with large amounts of water, pin sod down with Sod Staples
  • Keep all portions of sod in the shade and damp until you are ready to apply them

Sod Care

After installation, it is critical to take the necessary steps to ensure that new sod can grow and thrive.

Watering

  • Watering should take place within 30 minutes of installation
  • Apply at least 1″ of water to ensure the soil beneath the turf is wet
  • Ideally, 3″-4″ beneath the surface should have sufficient moisture
  • Continue watering twice daily, once in the morning and afternoon; soil should be saturated without puddling

Mowing & Fertilizing

  • New sod can be mowed approximately one week after application or when it appears to be ready

  • If possible, use a push mower, set the cutting height to 4 inches

  • Avoid using a riding mower for approximately 3 weeks; they are heavy, and their tires can damage fresh sod
  • Feed lawns with the proper fertilizer 3-4 times during the growing season
  • Use slow-release or controlled-release Nitrogen when possible, especially during the spring and fall applications

Order Green Grass Today and Pick It Up Tomorrow

Small Rolls Sold in Full Pallets

Calculator

Use our handy area calculator to determine the amount you need.

Order small roll pallets online or call to order large rolls.

Choose your pickup time with just 24-hour advance notice.

 Quality Product,
Quality Service

Our Reviews

The people at Grassroots Sod were very friendly and accommodating to my needs. Their sod is A+ quality. I would highly recommend them.

Steve Brunenn

We ordered sod from the Grassroots Sod and it arrived promptly. It was laid professionally while handling with expertise workmanship. The grass thrived instantly showing the quality of the seed and care. We appreciated their professionalism and kindness throughout this process. We will always use and recommend their services.

Doug and Gara Chisam

Proudly serving the KC metro area and conveniently located just south of Overland Park and Olathe between 69 and 169 Highways