When is Sodding the Best Choice for Lawn Repair?
It can be a difficult choice whether to seed or sod when you need lawn repair. You know that sodding will be more expensive, but will also be a quicker route to a great looking lawn. Seeding is probably going to save you money, but it is much more challenging to get a fully established lawn when starting from seed. Here are some things to think about when you want to know if will be the best way to redo your lawn.
Poor Soil Conditions
Many lawn problems stem from poor soil conditions. If your soil is compacted with poor drainage or is low in organic matter and available nutrients, it needs extensive work before you try to reestablish turf. While you can aerate the soil and add topdressing, that’s a slow route to success if there are substantial problems with the makeup of the soil. You will be better off to thoroughly till the soil and add organic matter and soil amendments. Forget about trying to save any of the existing lawn; fix the soil and lay new sod.
Wrong Species of Grass
Every species of plant has its preferred growing conditions, and turf is no exception. The wrong species of grass for Ontario’s climate or the specific conditions in your yard can make attempts to revive your lawn next to impossible. If your best results will come from using a new or different grass species, then you might as well plant sod in order to get a quick and complete lawn renovation.
Extensive Turf Problems
A few small dead or brown patches in your lawn are usually not too difficult to repair. If they keep returning or spread and take over large sections of your yard, then it’s time to take more serious action. The Gardener’s trained staff can help you figure out what’s causing these lawn problems. Taking soil samples and analyzing the turf for disease or pest problems are the first steps. While there is sometimes a simple fix, the best solution will often be a full lawn renovation, improving the soil and installing new sod.
Installing and Maintaining New Sod
Properly preparing the soil is the most important part of lawn repair and renovation. The soil should be deeply tilled and amended with compost or other organic matter mixed into the existing soil. A soil test will confirm if additional amendments are needed. With good soil, newly installed sod will establish quickly as long as it gets proper care and maintenance. New sod needs frequent watering, gradually cutting back as the roots grow deeper into the soil and the sod takes hold.
Mulch mowing is the best approach once the new sod starts to grow. Cut no more than one-third off of the grass height and leave the clippings in place. They serve as a very fine layer of mulch, adding nutrients and retaining moisture. Your new sod will be happier and may even establish more quickly if you mulch mow. If you are unsure about taking care of your new sod, consider using The Gardener’s weekly lawn service to make sure your yard gets the best possible care.
Lawn problems can be discouraging and frustrating for homeowners. Resodding your lawn is sometimes the best way to turn things around. In a matter of days, you can go from having a sparse, thin and dying lawn to a lush, green carpet of turf.
Contact your local Gardener today to talk about the lawn repair options that will best suit your situation.
Sod courtesy of slgckgc
Top Soil Piles courtesy of Charlie Vinz
