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3521 Hixson Pike,
Chattanooga, TN 37415
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Saturday: 8am – 1pm
Sunday: Closed
Sod Installation Service In Chattanooga
If you’re a Chattanooga homeowner looking to install sod for a lush, green lawn, selecting the right type of grass is key to ensuring the health and longevity of your yard. In Chattanooga’s diverse climate, you have several good options to consider: Zoysia, Tall Fescue, and Bermuda sod. Each variety has its own set of advantages and considerations based on your specific needs, soil type, and the amount of sun your lawn receives.
Zoysia Sod
This is the most popular type of sod that we sell. Zoysia grass is known for its durability, dense growth and ability to withstand heat and drought, Zoysia grass is a great choice for homeowners in Chattanooga. It thrives in full sun but can tolerate some shade as well. Zoysia is a warm-season grass, so it grows best in the warmer months, from late spring through early fall. This type of sod is low-maintenance, as it naturally chokes out weeds and requires less frequent mowing.
Tall Fescue Sod
Tall Fescue is a cool-season grass, ideal for cooler temperatures and higher rainfall. While it is not as drought-tolerant as Zoysia or Bermuda, Tall Fescue performs well in shaded areas and cooler climates. In Chattanooga’s fluctuating temperatures, Tall Fescue provides year-round green coverage, particularly in the fall and spring months. It’s a great choice for areas that experience cooler winters or have part-shade conditions.
Bermuda Sod
Bermuda grass is another warm-season grass, popular for its durability and ability to thrive in full sun. It grows best in hot weather and is very drought-tolerant once established. Bermuda sod spreads rapidly, forming a thick carpet of grass that’s perfect for high-traffic areas like lawns, sports fields, and golf courses. If you have a lawn that gets full sun year-round, Bermuda is a fantastic option.
Watering Instructions
After sod installation is complete
When you install new sod proper watering is crucial for establishing a healthy and vibrant lawn. The climate in Chattanooga, with its hot summers and mild winters, requires specific care to ensure that your new sod takes root and thrives. Here’s a comprehensive guide to watering instructions for new sod in the Chattanooga area.
1. Initial Watering
The First Few Days
Once your sod has been installed, it is important to water it thoroughly right away to prevent dehydration and encourage root growth. This initial watering will help the sod make contact with the soil beneath, which is critical for rooting.
- How Much Water: Water the sod immediately after installation with enough water to thoroughly saturate the sod and the underlying soil to a depth of about 6 inches.
- Frequency: For the first 3-5 days, water the sod at least twice a day—once in the morning and once in the late afternoon or early evening. This ensures the roots stay moist, helping them establish better contact with the soil.
- Time of Day: Water in the early morning to avoid water loss from evaporation, and in the evening if needed, but not too late. Avoid watering at night as it can promote disease.
2. Daily Watering
Week 1 to Week 2
In the first two weeks after installation, the sod is still getting established, and its roots are beginning to grow into the soil. The key here is to keep the sod consistently moist but not soggy.
- How Much Water: Water deeply, about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per day. This ensures that the water penetrates deep into the soil and encourages root growth.
- Frequency: Continue to water twice daily in the heat of the summer, with an additional watering if the weather is particularly hot or dry. If it’s cooler or rainy, adjust the watering schedule to prevent overwatering.
3. Transition to Less Frequent Watering
Week 3 to Week 4
After the first two weeks, the sod will begin to develop deeper roots. At this point, it’s time to reduce the frequency of watering to allow the roots to grow stronger and deeper.
- How Much Water: Water deeply about 1 to 1.5 inches of water every other day, depending on the weather. Watering deeply, rather than lightly, encourages the roots to grow deeper into the soil, improving drought tolerance.
- Frequency: Gradually reduce watering to every other day, and eventually, after 3-4 weeks, switch to a once-a-week deep watering routine, if the weather permits.
4. Ongoing Care
Month 2 and Beyond
By the time you reach the second month after installation, the roots should be well-established, and you can switch to a typical lawn watering routine. The goal is to keep the lawn healthy and conserve water.
- How Much Water: Continue to water deeply, applying about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. This can be adjusted based on rainfall and temperature. During the hotter months of summer, you may need to increase watering slightly.
- Frequency: For most of the year, watering once a week should be sufficient to keep your grass healthy. During drought periods or particularly hot weather, consider watering twice a week.
5. Avoid Overwatering
It’s important to strike a balance—overwatering can be just as detrimental as underwatering. Here are some signs to watch out for:
- Excess Standing Water: If you notice puddles or standing water, it’s a sign of overwatering.
- Yellowing Grass: Yellow or soggy grass may indicate overwatering.
- Shallow Roots: If your sod hasn’t developed deep roots, it might be because it hasn’t been watered deeply enough in the early stages.
6. Watering Tips for the Chattanooga Climate
Chattanooga’s climate can be hot in the summer with humidity, and mild in the winter. Here are some additional tips to help you maintain your new sod:
- Soil Type: Chattanooga soil can vary, but in many areas, it is clay-heavy, which can cause water to pool on the surface. Make sure your sod is installed with good soil preparation to allow for proper drainage.
- Rainfall: Check the local weather forecast. If there’s rainfall, adjust your watering schedule to avoid overwatering.
- Mowing: Once your sod has been established, mow it regularly to encourage growth. However, avoid mowing too short, as this can stress the new grass.
CONCLUSION
Watering your new sod correctly in Chattanooga is essential for establishing a healthy lawn that will thrive for years to come. The first few weeks are critical, so be sure to give your sod the attention it needs to take root. As the sod becomes established, you can transition to a more typical watering routine that fits the local climate and the specific needs of your lawn. With proper care, your new sod will flourish and become a beautiful, green addition to your yard.
Remember, each lawn is unique, so always keep an eye on weather conditions and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Happy gardening!
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