How to Lay Sod in the Desert
Sod lawns--a nearly instant fix for patchy brown turf--can transform even the most lackluster yard into a bold and beautiful green. Some parts of the country, however, can be more troublesome to sod than others. Laying sod in desert soil can seem a daunting process, especially if you have already tried and failed with sod or seeding before. Preparation is the key to success, and with a little foresight, a verdant and lush lawn can be yours in little time at all. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Select a type of sod that will do well in the arid desert climate. Bermuda is a constant favorite because it does well in high-heat, low-humidity climates.
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Remove any lingering grass or weeds from the area to be covered, as well as roots, rocks and dirt clods. A simple rake is an excellent tool for clearing debris from the surface inches of the earth.
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Amend the soil with a quality compost or manure mixture. Home improvement and agricultural centers will often test a soil sample and give precise recommendations on the amount of compost needed for your particular soil, but in most desert areas, a minimum of 3 inches of compost or manure should be spread over the area, and worked into the top 5 to 10 inches with a hand tiller or tilling machine.
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Rake the entire area smooth.
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Water the plot to dampen (but not drench) the soil.
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Lay the sod with the long edges running parallel to the longest side of the site, cutting any corners or smaller pieces with a sharp knife. Be sure to butt the ends of the sod snugly together but without any overlap. Stagger the consecutive rows like brickwork for a more natural appearance and to prevent drying edges.
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Use a sod roller to press the sod strips down to the soil and ensure even contact with the ground below. Roll in two directions, first lengthwise and then across on a perpendicular.
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Water the sod thoroughly, and continue to water three to four times daily for the first two weeks. Increase the duration of watering and decrease the frequency after this.
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Tips & Warnings
Clearing rocks and roots from hard desert soil can be exceptionally frustrating. To make the process easier on your hands and back, try soaking the area to be cleared with the garden hose for half an hour per day for about three days in a row. Wait a few days for any standing water to settle, and till the soil thoroughly to a depth of about 10 inches.
References
- Photo Credit lawn,grass image by Greg Pickens from Fotolia.com
