So when it comes to laying sod in the winter, what can be done?
Thanksgiving is over, and Christmas is around the corner. This can only mean one thing: winter is upon us. At first glance, it might seem like landscapers do not have much to do during the cold-weather months, or the so-called “offseason.” Surprisingly enough, this is a great time for homeowners and business owners to spruce up their landscapes! So when it comes to laying sod in the winter, what can be done?
Anticipate Frozen Roots
It won’t be long before the daily temperature drops below freezing. As such, you will need to take the proper precautions so that the roots will not wilt, wither, or die off as quickly. The best varieties of sod to use in this environment are zoysia and bermudagrass. When you choose the hardiest sod, it can endure the bad weather and treacherous conditions that can prevent the roots from settling into the soil and thriving.
Inspect Soil Samples
Speaking of soil, don’t jump directly to adding nitrogen. The first thing you will want to do is inspect the surrounding soil layers first; sod for landscape use might behave differently than residential-grade turfgrass. Lime and fertilizer can help keep the sod happy and healthy, and professional landscapers often take more businesses on as customers than homeowners and an excellent first impression can make or break a patron’s willingness to enter the store and shop. Other additions to the soil that could be needed include phosphorus, potassium, and sulfur.
Get the Soil Ready ASAP
Building on the last point, you must prepare the soil in anticipation of the sod delivery date. Experienced landscapers generally know what they are doing, but apprentices might not. Till at least 3-4 inches of topsoil while getting rid of rocks, stones, weeds, and other obstacles that might ruin the appearance of the landscape and hinder the growth of the newly-installed sod.
Plant Freshly-Harvested Sod Right Away
Moreover, freshly-harvested sod needs to be planted right away. It doesn’t keep for very long since it can dry out, be damaged by the cold weather, and suffer root death if you go beyond the 48-hour installation window. Sod that is still on the pallets is more vulnerable to the harmful effects of a sudden cold snap.
Get Your Yard Ready for Winter!
Since our inception from a humble 30-acre field to over 4,500 acres of turf grasses, Quantico Creek Sod Farm is now the LARGEST SOD FARM IN THE TRI-STATE AREA. Our service areas cover Pennsylvania, Maryland, DC Delaware, Virginia and Northern North Carolina. Order early and order often to ensure the best service possible. Contact us through our online page. Please find us at 27616 Little Lane, Salisbury, Maryland 21801. Our phone number is 410-726-6103, and our fax number is 410-742-6550. Speak to Jason Anderson for Turf Grass Sales. Reach him by email at jason@quanticocreeksod.com. Finally, follow us on social media on Facebook, LinkedIn, and our blog!