If your lawn has turned brown and patchy, you can save time and money by learning how to store sod properly. Sod, or grass sod, is a popular choice for landscaping because of its ability to quickly establish and maintain lush, green grass. However, if not stored correctly, the quality and longevity of your lawn’s sod can suffer.
Before storing your sod, it’s important to understand why proper storage is essential. When grass sod is exposed to extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall, it can become damaged or even die. If not properly stored, it may also grow mold or mildew, which can lead to a brown and unhealthy lawn.
To store your sod properly, follow these five steps:
- Choose the right location: Your storage area should be cool, dry, and well-ventilated, avoiding direct sunlight or heat sources. Ideal storage temperatures are between 50-60°F. If you’re storing the sod in a garage or shed, make sure it’s well-ventilated to prevent mold growth.
- Prepare the storage area: Remove any debris from the storage area, ensure a level ground, and lay down cardboard or plywood to protect the sod from moisture. This will keep the sod from rooting through the ground or becoming damaged by exposure to direct sunlight.
- Cut the sod into sections: Use a sharp knife or scissors to cut the sod into sections, leaving about an inch of space between each section for air circulation. The smaller the sections, the better the air circulation, which will help prevent mold and mildew growth.
- Stack and cover the sod: Stack the sod sections levelly, cover with a tarp or burlap, and secure it. Make sure that the tarp or burlap is waterproof to prevent any moisture from getting into the sod.
- Keep the sod moist: Water the sod regularly but not overwater, ensuring the soil is damp, not soaking wet. If the sod is too dry, it may shrink or become damaged by extreme temperatures. However, if the sod is too wet, it may develop mold or mildew. Check the sod regularly to ensure that it’s properly moisturized.
You can store sod for up to two years if stored properly. It’s important to note that if you’re storing the sod for longer than two years, you may need to treat it with a fungicide or other chemicals to prevent mold growth. Additionally, if you plan on using the sod in the future, make sure to let it acclimate to the new location before planting.
In conclusion, proper storage is crucial for maintaining the health and longevity of your lawn’s grass sod. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your sod remains fresh and green, even during periods of extreme temperatures or heavy rainfall.
