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How to Maintain Sod Grasses

Heavily shaded lawn with Zoysia sod.

Mow at 1.5-3 inches cutting height, depending on turf density and shade/sun levels. Full sun lawns should be cut shorter to create a dense & lush lawn. Heavy shade areas will benefit from longer blades of grass so mow at a taller height. Never cut more than 1/3 of the height at any one mowing. Avoid mowing the same path and direction whenever possible to avoid permanent mower marks.

Water to supplement rainfall shortages only and void fixed timer irrigation settings. Though drought tolerant, Zoysia performs best with 1 inch of water per week. Do not waste water, and avoid run-off and standing water.

Once turf has matured, apply moderate nitrogen levels. Sod can maintain good density and color and still only need cutting every 10 days at low fertility levels. Higher fertilizer levels produce deeper color, but also requires frequent mowing and increases risk of diseases.Fertilize according to soil test recommendations. Your local county extension office can provide this service. A good “rule of thumb” is 1-2 pounds of nitrogen per 1000 square feet annually. Never apply to wet turf. An application of Iron will usually improve grass color.

this grass had just received its second mowing

Use of a pre-emergent herbicide is recommended but read and follow label directions and make sure you are using a product specifically designed for your type of turf. It is very common to see new weeds pop up after a sod installation as there are always weed seeds present in existing soil. Once you start watering your new sod, they begin to germinate and grow rapidly. For this reason, we recommend a weed control/fertilization program be followed for at least 1 full year to eliminate all 4 seasons of weeds. It is also a good idea to spread a granular pre-emergent prior to new sod installation to keep weed seeds from germinating.

For help with weed identification, pest control, or identification of mis-colored portions of turf (yellowing or brown) contact your nursery/garden center, landscaper, or State/county extension service agent.

Green lawn

New sod will have several shades of green mixed throughout the lawn because the field it came from will have varying levels of nitrogen, moisture content etc. A month or two of growing will get its roots deep into on site soil and the color will blend by itself. Thatch Removal: Periodically it may be necessary to remove accumulated thatch. The easiest way to accomplish this a thorough and short mowing in the late winter – just before turf turns green. Scalp with a lawn mower or de-thatch with a commercial machine and remove debris. Burning a dormant lawn is another very effective means of thatch control and even adds beneficial ash to the soil. Consult your local fire department. This activity has as many associated problems as benefits (i.e. burning far more than your lawn).

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Wow!! Just wow!! These guys are top notch! Burt and his crew are amazing, not only did they reply in a very timely manner, but they also were sensitive to my financial restrictions. From start to finish the job was done in a flash and also with beautiful attention to detail! I would recommend Burt with Landscape Innovations to any and everyone!
Blaze C.
If you want expertise, experience and long-term return on investment of any landscaping, drainage and/or outdoor living project, Burt Young and Landscape Innovations is the only quality resource to consider. Burt has my highest recommendation and sincerest gratitude for the value proposition his company provides. Looking forward to the next project with this company.
Nic G.
Burt built a beautiful paver patio w/sitting wall and a fire pit ring in our backyard. It has transformed the yard into a gathering space that we will enjoy for years to come. We look forward to finishing up with Burt in the spring with Phase 2 -- new sod!
Michelle H.
Burt and his team did a great job for me on a fairly large job of grading, new sod and a retaining wall. I am very pleased with the outcome of the project and would highly recommend him for any landscaping projects small or large. He takes pride in his work and works hard to meet his customers expectations. I will be using him again for a smaller job in the next few weeks.
Lane P.
Burt just finished putting in a large retaining wall for me. The work was done perfect and I love the end product. What I value the most was his insight and advice. He could have just built what I told him, but instead he advised me to make adjustments. His suggestions were an improvement and actually cost less than what I asked for. Its refreshing when someone gives you advice that will save you money when he could have pocketed the extra profit! Love working with him.
Alicia A.
Burt is very knowledgeable in his field and has a great eye for design. He is honest and fair with his prices. He is also direct and to the point in his proposals and with working with his clients and their needs. Whether you want drainage issues fixed, a yard makeover or a wonderful backyard oasis, Landscape Innovations will give you the most for your money.
Kim B.