If you are looking to install bermuda grass sod for a new lawn, it can be a bit intimidating. This process typically involves a significant investment, and the new grass is a living product that needs to be handled with care. Whether you are installing the sod yourself or using a professional, it is important to understand how to lay it down properly. Here are seven steps to help you with the process:
Step 1: Test Your Soil
Before you install the new bermuda grass sod, it is important to test your soil. Your soil’s health plays a crucial role in determining the overall health of your grass, and a soil analysis can help balance the soil’s pH and ensure that the nutrients in fertilizers are absorbed effectively. It is important to take a soil test before applying a non-selective herbicide, as the chemicals in the herbicide may temporarily alter the soil pH.
Step 2: Learn About Bermuda Grass Maintenance
Before installing bermuda grass sod, it is essential to understand the kind of maintenance it requires. This will help you make an informed decision on whether bermuda grass is the right choice for your lawn, and what kind of products you may need to help it reach its full potential.
Step 3: Measure Your Planting Area
To determine how much bermuda grass sod you will need to order, use the Area Calculator Tool to measure the surface area you need to cover. This tool will help you calculate the amount of sod you need to purchase based on your address and the area you plan to install the sod.
Step 4: Clearing the area
Installing new sod requires a clear area free of any existing grass, vegetation, or debris. This is why it’s essential to remove the old grass before laying the new bermuda grass sod. The process of killing the old grass makes it easier to remove, and the right herbicide is key to a successful outcome.
Selective vs. Non-Selective Herbicides
When choosing an herbicide, it’s essential to understand the difference between a selective and a non-selective herbicide. A non-selective herbicide kills all vegetation it comes in contact with, so be cautious when using it near desired shrubs, trees, or your garden. On the other hand, a selective herbicide only kills specific weeds. To ensure the old grass doesn’t interfere with the new sod, we recommend using a non-selective herbicide that will kill everything it touches.
Removing Old Grass
If you’re looking to remove old grass, here are the steps you should follow:
- Begin by making an application of a non-selective herbicide or a glyphosate-based product 10 to 14 days before installing the new sod.
- Wait 3 to 4 days and make a second application if the grass isn’t dying fast enough.
- Once the grass is dead, use a sod cutter or rototiller to remove the top layer of grass and debris.
- Always follow the label instructions and safety precautions with your glyphosate product.
Step 5: Prep Soil & Level
Proper site preparation is crucial for the success of your new bermuda grass sod. This includes reducing compacted soil, pulling up or adding organic matter, and smoothing out the soil’s surface to make it level. It is also important to moisten the surface of the planting area before laying the sod.
Step 6: Lay and Roll Out New Sod
Once the preparation work is complete, it is time to have your bermuda grass sod delivered and installed. When laying out the new sod, it is important to have a plan for where the sod will be delivered, to have enough people to help with the labor, and to have the right hand-tools, such as a utility knife or box-cutter. It is recommended to use a brick pattern when laying the sod and to roll it for smoothness once it is installed.
Step 7: Water and Fertilize
It is essential to water the sod regularly and fertilize it as recommended by the soil analysis results. This will help the new grass establish strong roots and grow into a dense and healthy lawn.
In conclusion, installing bermuda grass sod for a new lawn requires careful planning and preparation. By following these seven steps, you can ensure that your new lawn is installed properly and grows into a healthy and beautiful lawn.
