Golf Lessons - Discover Which Sod Will Work Best In Your Yard

Discover Which Sod Will Work Best In Your Yard

Posted on November 26th, 2011 by Adriana Noton

Many people choose sod over seeding their yard because they want a beautiful lawn quickly. Consideration has to be given to the amount of sun or shade the grass will receive and how much maintenance is going to go into keeping it looking great. Here is some brief information on six varieties and the maintenance involved with each.

Kentucky Bluegrass is dark green, soft and thick. It thrives in northern climates and needs more water during the warm seasons to keep the dark green color it is known for. It does well in sun and some shade. This variety does require a lot of water especially during high temperatures and droughts. Fertilize with 4 to 6 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per year during early fall and use less during the spring.

Another variety that does well in northern climates is Tall Fescue. It is medium to dark green in color and has good weed and disease resistance. It does well during dry seasons and drought. Water lightly and fertilize during the growing seasons, March – June and September – December, with three to six pounds of nitrogen per 1000 per square feet for the entire year.

Bermuda grass is excellent in southern climates. It tolerates heat well and is used places where there is a lot of foot traffic, such as athletic fields and golf courses. The amount of watering and fertilizer it needs is dependent on the amount of use and receives. It is drought tolerant and is easy to over water. The best method is to water deeply, about one inch, per week to develop deep root growth. Homeowners should fertilize every thirty to forty-five days, using one pound of nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet.

Zoysia will do well in shade but loves the sunlight. It needs little water but does thatch so it will have to be aerated. Use two to five pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet for the entire year.

St. Augustine grass will take some shade and its water needs are dependent on the local rain fall. Fertilize with 1 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet per month to be kept evenly green. Otherwise it will have irregular color and growth. More fertilizer will get lush growth but it will also get pest and diseases.

Centipede sod is low maintenance and great in hot climates that are either dry or moist. It is light green in color and grows slowly but does resist weeds. Low mowing or over fertilizing will cause it to die. When the sod is first put down, do keep it moist but not soaked. Then once it is established it only need moderate to low watering. When fertilizing, do not use phosphorus and low to medium nitrogen and potassium. A good fertilizer mix is 15-0-15.

When using sod, be sure to water and fertilize according to the type of grass you are putting in. If not certain how much water or fertilizer, check the internet or a gardening center. These tips should help you get started on choosing the right sod for your lifestyle.

Prior to buying any landscaping supplies including Retaining walls London Ontario, and sod, you can browse websites to become familiar with all the products and buy them from premier suppliers. Fisher Landscape & Golf Supplies 258 Exeter Road, London, ON N6L 1A3 (519) 652-6752