How To Lay Sod - DIY Tips
Lightly water the prepared soil about 2 days before your sod arrives and scatter a pre-plant fertilizer. Start unrolling along the longest straight edge, stagger the seams like brickwork, pat each piece down so there are no air pockets, rake away footprints as you go, and cut pieces to fit the edges. Then start the post-install watering routine.
Laying sod can be easy to do yourself, especially if you follow our preparation tips.
Step by step
Water and fertilize 2 days before
Lightly water the area to be sodded about 2 days before your sod delivery or installation date, and scatter a pre-plant fertilizer on the bare soil to help the sod root and stay healthier.
Make sure the area is level
The whole area should be completely level before the first roll goes down.
Start on the longest straight edge
Find the longest straight edge in the area and unroll the first row of sod along it. This is your starting point for the rest of the project.
Stagger the seams
Stagger each row the way you would lay bricks. It helps your lawn look more uniform.
Remove air pockets and footprints
Rake away any footprints in the soil and pat down the sod so there are no air pockets under it.
Cut pieces to fit
Cut the remaining rows of sod so they fit neatly around edges and curves.
Start watering
Once your lawn is installed, follow the best practices for watering so your sod can root properly.
Common questions
Should I water the soil before laying sod?
Yes. Lightly water the area about 2 days before your sod is delivered or installed.
Where do I start laying sod?
Along the longest straight edge in the area. Unroll the first row there and work outward.
Should sod seams be staggered?
Yes. Stagger the rows like brickwork so the lawn looks more uniform.
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