How to Replace the Grass in Outside Dog Pens
Dog pens subject specific areas of your lawn to high traffic, which can result in unhealthy or dead grass. Fix the unsightly patch of grass by replacing it with new sod. You can handle this task yourself by removing the old grass, and rooting and installing the sod. When purchasing the sod, choose the right product for your climate; also consider how much maintenance is required to keep the grass alive. You can also use synthetic sod, which is more expensive than regular sod but will last longer. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Determine the square footage of the dog pen by using a tape measure. The square footage of the pen will equal the width multiplied by the length of the area.
-
2
Purchase a type of sod that is designed for your specific climate, and that is adaptable to heavy traffic. Durable grass types include Tall Fescue, Bermuda and Centipede.
-
-
3
Remove the old grass from the dog pen area. Use a spaded or flat-headed shovel to edge and remove old grass by digging down deep enough to just remove the grass and roots; this will probably be about three to four inches3" to 4" deep. Use a wheelbarrow to transport the old grass from the area.
-
4
Remove any sticks or stones from the dog pen area. Debris can cause damage to grass roots or make unsightly humps under the sod.
-
5
Lay sod material in the pen area by starting at one end and working to the opposite side. When laying the sod, the ends should be butted tightly together to prevent gaps that could become a potential tripping hazard.
-
6
Water the new sod daily to keep the area moist. Do not mow the pen area for the first week or two to allow the grass roots to set.
-
1
