Sod Information

Why Sod instead of Seed?

1) Takes less time to establish
2) Can install anytime the ground is not frozen
3) Consistency
4) Controls erosion
5) Weed free
6) Stops tracking of mud & sand
7) Requires less water
8) Adds value
9) 100% Bluegrass
10) You can see what you're buying

 

Question and Answers

WATER

Q: When do I start watering?

A: It is important to start watering immediately after you install your new sod.

Q: How long should I water my new sod?

A: KLM Farms recommends watering for 30 minutes twice a day for the first 2 weeks.

Q: How can you tell if your new lawn is getting enough water?

A: By randomly picking up the corners of several rolls and feeling the topsoil it should be very moist but not muddy. Remember- A HOT DRY WIND CAN DRY OUT YOUR NEW SOD IN A MATTER OF HOURS!

FERTILIZER

Q: When do I need to fertilize my sod?

A: The best time to fertilize your lawn is spring and fall.

Q: What is the best type of fertilizer to use?

A: In the spring KLM Farms recommends using   -    - In the fall KLM Farms recommends using  -    -

Q: Where is the best place to get fertilizer for my lawn?

A: KLM Farms is an authorized fertilizer dealer.

Federated co-ops in Rush City, MN. has the same great fertilizer we have. Call them at 320-358-3292. Their friendly staff will be happy to assist you. For your convenience the fertilizer comes in 50# bags. Tell them you would like the mix KLM Farm uses.

MOWING

Q: When do I start mowing my new sod?

A: You can mow your new sod the second week after install.

Q: What is a good height to keep your Bluegrass?

A: You should keep it right around one inch. Remember not to cut more than a half inch at a time

Q: Do I need to bag my grass clippings?

A: It is not necessary to bag the clipping. But keep in mind clumps of grass sitting on your lawn will kill that spot if not picked up/racked out.

PETS

Q: How long do I need to keep my pet off my lawn?

A: Its best to keep your animals/kids off your lawn for the first 2 weeks to insure your sod roots down.

Q: Does my pet going to the bathroom affect my grass?

A:YES, female dogs urine will burn your grass causing dead spots. This can be minimized by washing the urine off with a garden hose.

ORDERING/DELIVERY

Q: How do I order sod from KLM Farms?

A: Pick up your phone and call (651)-674-4321

Q: How much notice do I need to give when ordering?

A: For pickup in the field 24 hour notice. For delivery we may need up to one week, but 2-3 days is preferred.

Q: How does KLM Farms sell their sod?

A: For small rolls we cut 1.5 yard rolls and put up to 90 yards on a pallet. For big rolls we cut them 30 inches wide and up to 126ft long.

Q: How do I know what sod to order?

A:Peat sod grows the best under irrigation and full sun.
Mineral sod can be grown on most any soil and hold up better than peat if irrigation is not available, our mineral sod will do better in shaded areas but still requires 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day.

Q: How do I know how much sod to order?

A: You must first measure the area (length x width) that will give you the square feet you need. Since were all human it never hurts to order a little extra.

  INSTALLING

Q: How do I install my new sod?

A: Start at your property line, or along the driveway or sidewalk. Roll it out like a rug; stagger the joints like rows or bricks; make sure the joints are butted together without overlapping.

Q: How do I shape the corners?

A: use a knife or razor blades for shaping around flower beds, trees, rocks.

Q: Do I need to roll my new sod?

A: It is recommended that you roll or tamp the sod to smooth out small bumps and to ensure good contact with the soil beneath.

 

Homeowners

When sod is purchased it comes with a thin layer of soil attached to the bottom of the grass. This layer
of topsoil is not enough.

You must prepare the area for sodding. Preparation can be done with a tiller, a Harley rake, or by hand.
The idea is to reveal as much of the topsoil area as possible for the new roots to grow into. Adding top
soil may be the best direction to go, if you are in doubt, we would be happy to advise you.

Sod installation can be done by doing the following: First remove any existing grass, weeds, rocks, or
other foreign material such as leaves. Laying sod on top of existing grass creates an air pocket and will
not allow the sod to root in to the soil. If the area is not properly prepared the new grass will not survive.

Sod should be installed on smooth, bare soil. (If you plan on using weed killer to remove existing
grass/weeds, allow 4 weeks for the chemicals to dissolve before installing sod.) If you plan to install an
irrigation system, this should be done prior to the finished grade. If you do not have an irrigation system, it is vital that there is some type of sprinkler on the job site to set up immediately after installation.

It is important that the finished grade is smooth because the sod will conform to whatever grade it is installed on. The soil near the edges of driveways and sidewalks should be about Y2 inch below the edge of the concrete to create a smooth transition after installation.