Sod & Sodding Service
Napa Valley, San Francisco North Bay, Ca. USA

 Most sod is grown locally to avoid long transport and drying out of the product. It is sold to landscapers or home owners who use it to establish a lawn quickly and avoid soil erosion. The farms that produce this grass may have many varieties of grass grown in one location to best suit the consumer's use and preference of appearance. It is usually harvested a year after planting. On the farm it undergoes fertilization, frequent watering, frequent mowing and subsequent vacuuming to remove the clippings. It is harvested using specialized equipment with precision adequate to cut standardized sizes. Sod is typically harvested in small square slabs, rolled small rectangles, or large 4 foot wide rolls. Some large sod farms may export internationally. Because of the product's short life after harvest, the sod may be washed clean of the soil down to the bare roots, or sprigs. It makes shipping lighter and cheaper.

When applying sod, application of starter fertilizer with a 1-1-1 ratio of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium may be recommended.  The Phosphorus will assist with root development which is important for the successful establishment of sod. Be sure to lightly rake the fertilizer into the soil to minimize the fertilizer from coming in contact directly with the roots and causing possible root burning. When applying sod to slopes be sure to lay the sod perpendicular to the direction of the slope. This will help prevent rain water from washing out the sod. If necessary, apply sod staples to hold the sod in place. Water well, but do not over water - it is important to encourage the roots to "look" for water on their own and grow into the soil.
 

Also See:

Lawn Mowers
Lawn Mowers - Sharpening & Repair
Building Materials- Home Centers
Irrigation Systems & Equipment
Sprinklers - Garden & Lawn, Installation & Service
Tree Services
Weed Control

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