Frequently Asked Questions About Sod

Over the many years that Duda Sod has been in business, we have helped countless homeowners with their Florida lawns. In that time, we’ve noticed that many of our clients come to us with similar questions. Here’s a selection of some of the most common ones to help you learn more about sod and whether it might be right for your lawn.

When Should I Install Sod?

Warm weather grasses like Zoysia and St. Augustine go dormant in the winter, meaning that they virtually stop growing during the colder months. Because of this, it is best to install these types of sod in the spring. This will give it plenty of time to establish throughout the spring, summer, and fall before going dormant in the winter. For grass types that grow year-round, install sod in the fall to protect it from the summer heat. Check with your sod provider to verify the appropriate sod installation timeline for the type of grass you prefer.

Do I Need to Remove Old Grass Before Installing Sod?

Yes, this is a great question! You will need to kill off and remove any grass in the area where you will be installing fresh sod. This will give you a clean slate for preparing the soil and will give the sod a suitable environment in which to take root. Use a glycophosphate solution about two weeks before your sod arrives. If your grass isn’t dying off quickly, add a second coat after three or four days. This will kill any grass that remains so that you can remove it. A rototiller or sod cutter will help you get rid of the dead grass. Because you won’t need a sod cutter or rototiller very often, it can be better for your budget to simply rent the equipment you’ll need temporarily, rather than purchasing it.

Should I Apply Weed-killer to the Soil Before Sod Installation?

It can be tempting to use a pre-emergent solution to prevent weeds from sprouting up in your new sod, but this can actually be harmful to the young grass as it is trying to take root. Instead, thoroughly weed the space where the sod will go prior to installation. Then, while the grass establishes itself, you can pull individual weeds as needed. Pre-emergents work by shortening the root structure of weeds, essentially cutting off their water supply. Unfortunately, they shorten the roots of grass as well, and this is the last thing you want at a time when your lawn needs to be growing roots the most.

Do I Need a Professional to Install Sod in My Yard?

Installing sod, while physically demanding, isn’t all that difficult, so it is entirely possible to do the job yourself. However, many homeowners prefer to work with sod installation service providers to save themselves the labor and ensure the job is done properly. While Duda Sod does not provide sod installation services, we do have an extensive network of sod installation companies across Florida. We are more than happy to put you in touch with a qualified professional in your area.

How Should I Care for My Sod Once Installed?

The most important thing is to stay off your sod as much as possible in the early days following installation. During this period, the grass is in its most fragile state, and you don’t want to damage it before it has a chance to establish. The specific care requirements for your sod will vary slightly depending on the grass variety. Be sure to ask your installer or the experts here at Duda Sod for advice as to the best watering schedule, grass height, aeration schedule and other factors.

Where Can I Buy Sod in Florida?

Duda Sod is your premier source for high-quality sod throughout the state of Florida. We offer a wide selection of sod types for you to choose from, including Bahia, Zoysia, Floratam and St. Augustine, to name a few. We’ll help you compare options to choose the best sod type for your needs, preferences, soil type and location, so don’t be shy about contacting us with additional questions. Call now to get started so you can have a lush, healthy lawn by the time summer comes around again.