[Arid_gardener] Laying sod in Gilbert

[Cathy.Rymer at chandleraz.gov]

Hi Brandon,

Thanks for your question.  It really isn't necessary to have your soil 
tested unless you suspect some type of contamination.  Soil test results 
in the Gilbert area will show a pH of about 8, low nitrogen, less than 1 
percent organic matter and a soil texture of clay loam.  Here is a link to 
laboratories that do testing just in case. 
http://cals.arizona.edu/pubs/garden/az1111.pdf

The best way (although perhaps not the cheapest) to prepare you soil is 
this:
1)  Water the area where you intend to lay the sod well - so the moisture 
soaks in to about 6 - 8 inches.
2)  Wait three or four days (so the soil isn't sticky) and then till the 
area by hand or with a rototiller to a depth of at least 6 inches.
3)  For best results, add a 1 or 2 inch layer of sand.  Sprinkle ammonium 
sulfate per package directions and till these in as well.  This helps with 
drainage and aeration - the fertilizer will provide nutrients for your new 
grass.
4)  Roll the soil smooth.  You can rent a roller at most home improvement 
stores or rental shops.  It's a drum that you fill with water to make it 
heavy.
5)  Water the area again before you lay the sod.  This will keep the 
tender roots from drying out.
5)  Lay your sod, starting in the center and working your way to the 
edges.  Make sure the pieces fit together snugly and alternate the 
'seams'.
6)  Water the turf area immediately and roll the sod with the drum.  This 
will ensure good contact with the soil below.

Once completed, you will need to water this area three or four times a day 
until the sod pieces begin to root into the soil below.  It's not 
necessary to saturate the soil - just keep it moist so the sod doesn't dry 
out.  This could take a 10 days or more.  Then you should be able to 
gradually change your irrigation schedule so you are watering once a day, 
every other day by about three weeks after laying sod.  By six weeks you 
will only need to water once a day every two to three days.

This is a bit more work than just laying the sod on dry, compacted soil 
but your grass will be healthier, deeper rooted and much more tolerant of 
hot days and drying winds.  Your goal is to encourage deep roots (6 - 8 
inches) which creates a great looking lawn that you don't need to water as 
often.

Please let me know if you have any questions, I'm happy to help.  (I live 
in Gilbert)

Cathy Rymer
Water Conservation Coordinator
Certified Arborist
Certified Landscape Irrigation Auditor
Master Gardener
City of Chandler
(480) 782-3589
www.chandleraz.gov/water

Note:   Our e-mail domain has changed from ci.chandler.az.us to 
chandleraz.gov. Please notify all of your contacts.


>>>>>>>>>>>
Brandon
85296
bnd-66 at cox.net

Can anyone provide an updated link to labs that provide soil testing ( for 
the purpoase of amending the soil prior to sod) in the gilber t area?
The link...
http://ag.arizona.edu/maricopa/garden/html/general/question.htm
Is no active showing a list.
Thank you
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