Ground Preparation for Sod

Rough Grading

• If the site has never been landscaped, it has to be rough graded. Rough grading strips vegetative matter, such as weeds, from the site and ensures positive drainage (away from structures). The rough grading establishes drainage with swales, and modify steep slopes. A skid steer loader, such as a bobcat, can rough grade and compact the ground of a residential site, but should stay outside the dripline (canopy) of trees. Stockpile any topsoil for later use, and fill soft spots with a material that can be compacted to stabilize the ground.

Topsoil

• A soil test provides information about its characteristics, or you can rely on local information. The best soil is sandy loam, but other soils can be suitable with some amendments to improve its drainage capacity and organic content. Most soils are improved with organic matter, such as peat or compost. Topsoil may have to be imported if the soil is extremely poor, or if there isn't enough, but mix it well with existing topsoil and amendments.

Site Preparation

• Sod needs at least 4 to 6 inches of good topsoil; 6 inches of soil settles to 5 inches and turfgrass roots extend about 5 to 6 inches into it. Spread the soil to uniform depth, checking the depth periodically. Uniform topsoil depth helps ensure the drainage established in rough grading will be maintained. Add fertilizer before fine raking; 10-20-10 or 18-24-6 are typical starter fertilizers. Follow the instructions for coverage.

Rolling

• Fine-rake the soil, leveling to a smooth finish grade free of clods and sticks and rocks. Fill a lawn roller with water to roll the topsoil; the surface should be firm against footprints. Rolling consolidates the soil so it doesn't settle, but doesn't compact it. Cut and fill any high spots or hollows that appear after rolling. Lightly water the surface before installing sod to help it establish roots.