We’ve provided answers to a few common lawn related questions below, but if you have a question you don’t see answered here, please use the Contact Us tab above to send your question to our lawn care professionals. We are proud members of the Turfgrass Producers International and Saskatchewan Turfgrass Association, links to their websites can be found below where more valuable information can be obtained.
What are your prices?
Please call us or use the Contact Us tab above to send us an inquiry that includes where you want the sod delivered and how much you need.
When is the best time to sod my yard?
The simple answer is anytime during the growing season. We typically start cutting in the middle of May and continue until the end of October. One thing to consider is that the water requirements for new sod are higher during the heat of the summer.
What should I do to prepare for sod?
We recommend spraying your yard with glyphosate (Roundup) to ensure that any undesirable grasses or broadleaf weeds are killed. One week after spraying you can remove the old grass and work up the soil, ensuring you have 4-6 inches of good topsoil. Now is the time to install your underground sprinklers and then begin levelling and packing the soil. You want the soil to be firm enough that you only leave a slight imprint when you walk across the area. Remember to leave the soil 3/4 to 1 inch (2-2.5 cm) lower than sidewalks or other obstacles so that they are level once the sod is installed.
Why is my new lawn turning brown?
Typically a lawn will turn brown when it is not getting enough water. Try increasing the amount of water you are applying. The soil should be wet beneath the rolls after you water and the roots should be down into the topsoil within the first two weeks after installation if the grass is adequately watered. If you have questions regarding amount of water or the lawn is still not greening up please contact us.
Does my new sod need to be installed right away?
Sod is a living, perishable product. We ensure the sod is harvested no more than 24 hours before delivery because we want it to be as fresh as possible when it hits your yard. In the extreme heat of summer the sod can start to ‘heat’ inside the rolls very quickly. The result of which can be seen in the picture to the right where one of the pallets of sod was left for a couple of days to be installed. If weather does not permit installation right away, please try to unroll as much of the sod in a shady area to prevent heating. Do not cover with a dark tarp in the sun, as this will only increase the temperature of the pallet. If heavy rainfall is what is causing the install delay, try wide boards or plywood to walk on in order to distribute your weight and allow you to lay the sod in the mud.
Why is there a big gap between the seams of my installed turf?
This is called shrinkage and it most often happens when your new lawn is under watered. One of the most challenging areas to keep moist is the edges and corners, simply because it is more susceptible to the air and evaporation. Make sure that when you are installing your sod that you butt all edges and ends together tightly but not overlapping. Pay special attention that your sprinklers cover the entire area so that the corners do not get missed.
How often should I mow?
The rule of thumb is to never remove more than one third of the grass blades. You will likely have to mow more during times when moisture is plentiful and less when the weather has been dry. Avoid mowing a parched lawn; it will make a dry lawn even drier.
How should I fertilize my lawn?
We recommend the use of a spin type fertilizer spreader as it provides the most even distribution. Fertilizers, even slow release, can cause injury if applied in rates that are too high for the grass. If the application is uneven, there may be some spots that are bright green and lush, while others may be unfertilized and pale or over-fertilized and damaged. The picture to the right shows the results of a drop fertilizer spreader that was not applying the product evenly.
What do I do with the lawn clippings?
Collecting all of the clippings removes nutrients from the lawn. A mulching mower does a good job of chopping and blowing the clippings into the lawn where they decompose and release important nutrients back into the soil. With that said, if grass clippings are heavy, remove them to avoid excessive thatch buildup.
How often should I water my lawn?
Here is a simple rule you can follow: If you water, do it regularly. Apply an inch every week (including rain) at one sitting on the sprinkler.
Has my dog killed my lawn?
In small amounts, dog (and cat) feces will produce a fertilizer effect on the lawn that results in dark green patches and areas of noticeably taller grass. In large amounts or when left on the lawn for too long, dog feces will release excessive amounts of nitrogen and salts into the soil as it breaks down, which results in brown patches or “burn” marks on the lawn. Over time, areas suffering only mild damage will recover on their own. Dark green patches and areas of tall grass are likely to remain for a few weeks. In areas of severe damage, similar to the picture, the grass may need to be replaced with new sod. Animal waste is full of nitrogen. Think of animal urine like a concentrated liquid fertilizer and feces as a slow release fertilizer. Like any fertilizer, both will burn your lawn when used in excess.
Mushrooms in new sod, why?
Click here for a great article on mushrooms by Jim Hole co-owner of Hole’s Greenhouse & Gardens in St. Albert, Alberta.
Seedheads in my sod, why?
Click here for a great article on seedheads in Kentucky bluegrass from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.
Or watch the following YouTube video!