How to Install St. Augustine Grass Sod

Clear the ground of roots, rocks and any other large debris that interferes with root development. Till the surface to a depth of 4 inches.

Collect a total of two cups of soil samples from five different spots on the planting bed. Mix them in a plastic bag and submit it to the county extension service. Ask for a laboratory analysis that tells you what nutrients your soil needs.

Incorporate into the ground the fertilizers recommended in the soil test result. If lime is suggested, apply it to a depth of 4 inches. Add nutrients to the first inch of topsoil. Use a rototiller or a shovel. Rake the surface to smooth it out when you finish. Then, run a lawn roller over it to firm it.

Measure the planting surface and place your order for St. Augustinegrass sod. Schedule the delivery for when you are available to install the lawn immediately. You cannot store the sheets of sod for later because the roots dry out and die.

Water the planting surface lightly -- do not make mud, but create a moist bed for the sod roots.

Arrange the sheets of St. Augustine grass sod on the planting surface. Work in a straight line first, leaving the irregular areas of the lawn for last. Lay the grass sections side-by-side in a staggered design to eliminate gaps. Verify that the edge of one section of sod touches the next.

Turn the sprinkler on if you have not finished the job within 20 minutes, recommends the University of New Hampshire Cooperative Extension. Water the sod as you install it to keep the roots from drying out. Apply one inch of water to each section of grass.

Cut pieces of sod with a garden knife to fit them around trees, driveways and other irregular areas bordering the lawn.

Run a lawn roller over the installed St. Augustine grass to push the roots onto the ground surface. Stay off your new lawn for the next two to three weeks. Keep the ground hydrated until the roots become established and the grass shows continuous growth. Established St. Augustine grass needs 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch of water when the blades begin to wilt.