The Best Time To Lay Sod For A Lush Lawn, Depending On The Grass Type

Laying sod is a great way to start a lawn. Unlike growing grass from seed, sod provides you with an instant yard refresh that looks great straight away. However, to ensure that you get a lush, long-lasting lawn, it is essential to know when to lay it. Sod can be installed throughout the year as long as the ground is prepped and the soil is not frozen or too wet, but to get the most out of your purchase and increase the chances it takes, it is helpful to lay it down according to the type of grass. The general rule when it comes to laying sod is to install cool-season grasses in the fall and warm-season grasses in the spring and early summer.

The reason why timing matters when it comes to laying sod is all about when these two grass types experience growth. Cool-season grasses, such as tall fescue and Kentucky bluegrass, begin growing in late winter and early spring and then go dormant in the summer. By planting them in the fall, you can ensure that the ground is not frozen or wet while still giving them enough time for them to establish themselves before the hot summer months. Warm-season grasses, such as Bermuda and zoysia, on the other hand, put on new growth in summer and fall and then go dormant in winter. By planting them before they start to grow, they are able to establish their roots before winter comes. 

Although you usually should follow these general rules when it comes to installing sod, there are also other pieces of advice to consider. Firstly, there are some important soil preparation steps you shouldn't skip before installing sod, and these steps are just as important as timing. If you haven't prepped your site, don't install sod just because it happens to be the correct time of the year. Tasks such as grading the soil and replacing the topsoil will help your lawn thrive and last a long time, so make sure you have done them before installation. 

Another thing to consider when it comes to the best time of year to lay sod according to grass type is your own climate. When installing warm-season grasses, it is helpful to lay them during May and June in some climates when rainfall is ample. However, if you live somewhere with a dry late spring and summer, it may be better to establish it in early spring. This means that you won't have to rely on irrigation systems as it settles in. Grass sod should never be installed on dry and hot soil, so bear that in mind when planning out your yard makeover.