Over 40 years of Making Virginia Green
General Maintenance
When installing sod - think of it as transplanting a plant. Good Soil to Soil contact is needed for success. Soil preparation must be complete before you get your sod. Sod is a perishable product, which needs to be installed as soon as possible after harvesting. Heat builds up in the rolls and gasses are released and the sod starts to break down. Fescue is a cool season grass, cooler temperatures allow for a "shelf" life of a couple days. It is recommended to install the sod as soon as possible. Fescue will root at anytime above 32°. Freshly installed sod still needs to be watered but not as much during the winter months. As for preparing your area - be sure to clear all debris. Rough the grade to eliminate drainage, loosen soil to a depth of 4 inches; remove sticks, stones, clods, weeds and old grass. You must apply Lime and Starter Fertilize prior to putting the sod down; check with your area garden center on types and amounts needed.
Watering is key for survival of sod. Water will settle the sod. Water immediately after installation - check ground to ensure water has gone through to the ground. The roots will follow the water, if shallow watering occurs the roots will turn up seeking the water. It is best to water in the morning, washing off the dew - there is sugar in dew and sugar can contribute to disease. Water the amount required based on temperature (see care guide or call our office). The sod will be rooted in 10-14 days then you can back and make sure the sod receives 1.5 inches of water per week - a rain gauge is a great investment. Mother nature may help you reach your weekly watering goals.
Click below to download a PDF of our Care Guide for instructions on preparation, installation, fertilizing, mowing and maintaining your sod.
804-883-6338 Monday - Friday 8am-4pm
Saturdays Pre Scheduled Pick UP Available
14328 Medley Grove Lane
Doswell, VA 23047 - We are not in Doswell - Just 5 miles west of Ashland