[Arid_gardener] Re: [Soil Prrparation for Turf Sod

[Olin Miller]

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <clm_sam at msn.com>
To: <arid_gardener at Ag.arizona.edu>
Sent: Saturday, June 16, 2007 2:43 PM
Subject: [Arid_gardener] Question from Home-Hort WWW page

> Staci
> 85335
> clm_sam at msn.com
>
> We will be buying tif sod and was wondering if you could tell me the
> cheapest, but best way of preparing our soil.   Thanks!
================================================

>From West Coast Turf at

http://www.westcoastturf.com/installguide.php

"For best result, rototill or spade the area to a depth of 4 to 6 inches.
Eliminate drainage problems by having soil slope away from foundations, etc.

Rake in fertilizer, lime, peat, compost, etc. as needed to a depth of 3 to 4
inches. In the Desert Southwest, it is prudent to incorporate soil
amendments into the top 2 to 4 inches of the soil profile. Gypsum should be
applied at 50# to 100# per 1,000 square feet to help in the leaching of
salts and buffering of soil pH. Incorporating a 6-20-20 fertilizer with
minor elements is recommended at a rate of 10# per 1,000 square feet.

Rake and smooth the soil, removing rocks, roots, and large clods. Roll the
area lightly with a lawn roller 1/3 full of water. This will firm the soil
surface and reveal low areas that need more soil. Keep the grade 1 inch
below sidewalks or driveway.

Water the prepared area to settle soil and provide a moist base for turf.
Moistening to a depth of 6 inches is recommended for moist soils.

Install your lawn immediately upon delivery. Begin watering lawn within 30
minutes of installation. Turf is a living plant that requires ground contact
and moisture to survive!

In hot weather, protect unlaid turf by placing stacks in shade, covering
with moist burlap sacking, and/or sprinkling.

Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or
sidewalk. Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without
stretching. Avoid gaps or overlaps. Stagger the joints in each row in a
brick-like fashion, using a large sharp knife to trim corners, etc. Avoid
leaving small strips at outer edges as they will not retain moisture. On
slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope.

To avoid causing indentations or air pockets, avoid repeated walking or
kneeling on the turf while it is being installed or just after watering.

After installing the turf, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact
and remove air pockets."

Olin Miller, Master Gardener Volunteer
U of A Cooperative Extension, Maricopa County AZ