How To Prepare For Your New Lawn
Clear rocks and debris larger than 2-3 inches, till the soil at least 2 inches deep (4-6 inches is better), add topsoil to reach 4-6 inches total, mix in a high-phosphate starter fertilizer, then roll the surface level so it sits about 1 inch below sidewalks and patios. Good prep can cut a new lawn's water use by 20-40%.
Preparing the soil for new sod is the most crucial step before sodding. A new lawn that has proper soil preparation will use 20-40% less water. Here are the steps to follow when preparing your new lawn.
Step by step
Clear the site
Remove all rocks, stones and other debris larger than 2-3 inches in diameter.
Till the soil
Till the existing soil to a minimum depth of 2 inches before adding any topsoil (4-6 inches recommended). You can add compost before you till to further reduce the amount of water needed.
Add topsoil
Add topsoil if necessary, to achieve a total topsoil depth of 4-6 inches.
Apply starter fertilizer
Apply a "starting fertilizer" that is high in phosphate. Lightly work it into the top 2-3 inches of topsoil to avoid root injury.
Roll and level
Lightly roll the topsoil to settle the surface and create a level area with no air pockets. As a rule of thumb, keep the soil 1 inch below mowing strips, sidewalks, driveways and patios to make room for the sod.
Once your site is prepared, you are ready to order your sod and lay it. Before you start, it is important to understand the steps you need to take to make sure your sod roots properly.
Common questions
How deep should I till before laying sod?
At least 2 inches, and 4-6 inches is recommended. Add topsoil if you need to reach a total topsoil depth of 4-6 inches.
How far below the sidewalk should the soil be for sod?
About 1 inch below mowing strips, sidewalks, driveways and patios, so the sod sits flush once it is laid.
What fertilizer should I use before laying sod?
A starter fertilizer that is high in phosphate, lightly worked into the top 2-3 inches of topsoil.
Next: How Much Sod Do I Need? →