How to Lay Grass Sod the Right Way – Houston Lawn Rescue
How to Lay Grass Sod the Right Way in Houston
A lush, green lawn is the pride of any Houston homeowner. If you’re looking to install new sod or replace your existing grass, following the right steps will ensure your lawn roots quickly and stays healthy for years to come. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for laying sod in the Houston area, based on expert advice from Houston Grass.
Why Timing Matters: The Best Seasons to Lay Sod
The two best times to lay grass sod in Houston are spring and fall. During these seasons, temperatures are milder and rainfall is more consistent, giving your new sod the best chance to establish strong roots before the heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laying Sod in Houston
Preparing to Lay Grass Sod
Laying Grass Sod on Bare Dirt
If you’re working with a new home or a yard that’s just bare dirt, you’re in the ideal situation for sod installation. Here’s what you need to do:
- Level the ground: Make sure the soil is even and free of debris or weeds.
- Smooth the surface: Rake the area to create a smooth, uniform base.
- Lay the sod: Place the 16×24 inch pieces of grass tightly together, just like laying tiles. Avoid leaving any gaps where dirt shows, as this can invite weeds.
Replacing Old or Weedy Grass
If you’re replacing an existing lawn that’s full of weeds or you want to change the grass variety, follow these steps:
- Kill the old grass: Spray the area with a weed killer like Roundup and wait 7–10 days for the grass to die.
- Remove the dead grass: Use a sod cutter or a weed eater to remove the old grass down to the soil.
- Clean up: Bag and haul away the debris before laying new sod as you would on bare dirt.
Soil Preparation Tips
Do You Need to Till the Soil?
Most homeowners don’t need to till the soil before laying sod, especially if the ground is already level and free of debris. Tilling can be expensive and is usually unnecessary unless you’re dealing with very poor soil.
Should You Add Topsoil?
If your yard has poor-quality soil—like hard clay or sandy dirt—consider removing 4–6 inches and bringing in good topsoil. While this is a significant investment, it can reduce your long-term irrigation and fertilizer costs by helping your lawn retain water and nutrients.
Final Tips for a Healthy Houston Lawn
- Avoid gaps: Make sure sod pieces are tightly butted together to prevent weed growth.
- Water properly: Water two inches on the day of installation and one inch per day for the first two weeks during the warm months of the year.
- Choose the right time: Remember, spring and fall are the best seasons for sod installation in Houston. But grass sod can be laid any time of the year.
Contact Houston Grass for Expert Help
For more tips or to order fresh, farm-grown sod delivered to your door, contact Houston Grass:
Phone: (281) 431-7441
Website: houstonturfgrass.com
Houston Grass has been growing the grass Houston loves since 1981. Let their experience help you achieve the perfect lawn!
Ready to transform your yard? Follow these steps and enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn all year long!
