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How to Install Fescue Sod

Sheetal Mandora
Convenient to ship and install, fescue sod is a popular choice for yards and gardens. Read to know a step-by-step explanation on how to install it properly.
As the names suggests, fescue sod is a cool-season grass that requires cooler temperatures to thrive, and declines during the extreme heat of summer.
The grass is already planted on farms with seeds, and are later harvested by cutting a thin layer of surface soil. It is either rolled or stacked in pieces (specific sizes), in order to be sent out to the installing sites.
The texture of the grass is coarse, it grows in clusters and is fairly tall. As there are many different types of grass, growing specific type of fescue sod for landscaping purposes has increased in abundance.
Usually, turf-type of sods are considered as the more improved varieties as it has fine blades with deep, vigorous root systems. Another advantage of using turf-type fescues is because it is highly resistant towards disease and drought, can tolerate shade, and extreme temperatures.

Laying the Sod

For best results, we will go over the instructions on how to lay the sod the right way. Purchase the grass which has been planted from mid-February through mid-April and from mid-September through mid-November.
Since these months offer mild days and cooler nights, it helps encourage the root system to become strong. And in order to withstand extreme temperatures in particular parts of the U.S., the root system has to be strong.
Although there are other ornamental grasses available, this sod is a popular lawn grass because of its versatility and aesthetic appearance. The sod care and maintenance doesn't really require much work, which is why it has become the number one choice for many. Used for lawns, pastureland, and even athletic fields makes this resilient grass so dependable.

Step #1

The prices will depend on where you live, which manufacturer you purchase it from, and especially, what type of fescue you select. The best time to purchase the sod is from mid-January till May and mid-September till November.
Sodded lawns can cost either from 14 cents per sq. ft. to 50―60 cents per sq. ft. As for sod on its own, it can cost between 8―30 cents sq. ft.

Step #2

First you will choose the right type of sod for your lawn. Since it is tolerant to shade, choosing it for areas which don't get enough sunlight are perfect. If your lawn or area has low soil fertility, don't worry, as hard fescue can do well in such areas. Go to any garden center in your locality and ask for help in selecting the right type of sod for you.

Step #3

The perfect time to lay the sod is during fall. The cool-season grass is highly active and grows during early spring. Before the spring growing season begins, lay the sod in fall (giving it plenty of time).
Check the soil for proper conditions for the best growth and survival probability. Buy a soil test kit (from a garden center) or take a small sample to your state's agriculture extension office (to test the soil conditions).

Step #4

Apply herbicide to prepare the area where the sod will be laid. This prevents weed development from taking over the sod. You can add fertilizer in order to adjust the soil conditions. Use any type of fertilizer you wish, but try to avoid the ones which contain nitrogen in it (only in fall). Using fertilizer will enhance the growth in winter.

Step #5

Thoroughly water the lawn before you begin. The soil requires time to soak the water before the sod has been laid. Rake the lawn in order to set the surface level for a more aesthetically pleasing, well-kept landscaping appearance. Also, the fertilizer you used will also get an opportunity to incorporate itself inside the soil.

Step #6

Purchase it one day in advance. To place the first roll, use the side of your house or a sidewalk. Carefully unroll the first roll and tap it gently in the selected place. Take a roller and go over the lawn where the sod are placed.
Moving the roller over it will make sure the roots come in contact with the soil. This will also help it capture moisture from the soil. Water the lawn again and as thoroughly as possible. You will have to water the freshly-laid fescue daily till they establish properly.
Remember not to stand directly on it once the installation is completed. Give it some time to develop their root system and become well-established. Keeping off the grass will prevent depressions and air pockets in the soil. Follow these instructions to the mark and see your lawn flourish.