Sod Prices

Seed or Sod?

admin — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:26:42 +0000

If you want a great looking lawn and you will be starting from scratch, many people often want to know which one is better, seed or sod. This is a question that depends on a wide range of factors. These will usually determine what option is best for you.

What Factors Determine Seed or Sod?

The Terrain – The terrain that you plan on having your lawn will often determine if you use seed or sod. It is best to know if it is shaded, the type of soil, if it is hilly and prone to erosion. All of this is important before you take the first step in creating your lawn.

Price – Price is an extremely important factor when it comes to the decision to sod or not to sod. Generally seeding is much cheaper than sod; however the labor is already worked out in sod as opposed to seed.

Time – time is also an important aspect of the decision to seed or sod. People who have the time should consider seeding, as it is very time intensive. People who are on a tight schedule should take the time to consider sod. This method is much quicker and the results are lighting fast.

Why Seed?

People often opt to seed their area as laying sod may be more difficult. It is also dependent on the individual’s budget and the timeframe in which they have to work with.

If an individual is going to be seeding or sodding, the preparation for the area is going to be the same. The only difference is the cost related to the use of seed compared to sod. In seeding there are many different types of mixes that can be used, to get the desired grass that you want. There is less labor involved with seeding, compared to sod.

It is recommended that if an individual is going to seed, that you purchase only quality certified seed.

Advantages of Seed

Cheaper than sod
Less labor needed
Bigger selection
Easy to apply
Completing the job takes less time
Depending on the terrain, might be easier.

Disadvantages of Seed

Takes a longer time than sod
Possibility of erosion
Areas may need to be reseeded
The area may be unusable for some time
Time needs to be take to control weeds
Constant watering.

Why Sod?

People will often choose to use sod when it is more feasible than seeding an area. This may be in regards to needing a new lawn laid down as soon as possible. New sod can be used 2-3 weeks after installation compared to the much longer time needed with sodding. With seeding there is the possibility of problems such as seeds failing to germinate.

With the use of sod, people will not have to worry about weeds, something that is very common with seeding. The quality will not be a problem as they can see what they are buying compared to seeds.

Sodding is a very expensive venture and this is where seeding wins out.

Advantages of Sod

1. Immediate laid lawn

2. Can be established at anytime

3. People can view the finished product right away

4. Can be used in 2-3 weeks

5. No weeds to contend with

Disadvantages of Sod

1. Costly

2. Possibility of not rooting

Renting Home Depot Sod Cutter

admin — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:13:14 +0000

If you are considering cutting your own sod, then it is best done with the use of some type of sod cutter. These cutters make the job much easier and they are very effective at cutting the sod at the right level and size.

Many people are often interested in these products, however the cost turns off some people as it is rather expensive and might only be used once. Typically a manual sod cutter costs around $200 and up, while the mechanical ones start in the thousands. It is for that reason why people often consider renting a sod cutter from places like Home Depot.

What Is The Cost To Rent a Sod Cutter From Home Depot?

The cost to rent a sod cutter from Home Depot will depend on the type of product available. It is best to check with the local store to see what sod cutting products are available.

Typically the manual so cutters can be rented daily from $20-50.

The motorized ones such as the Bluebird sod cutter will go from $90 a day.

Sod Cutter Rental Checklist

When renting a sod cutter always get the right instructions related to using the product safely. Employees should explain in detail the right way to use the motorized sod cutters and also what safety equipment is needed.

When using the Bluebird sod cutter, ensure that you use safety gloves and eye protection. The cutter should not be used on hills whose gradient is steeper than 35%.

Kick Type Sod Cutter

admin — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 01:58:08 +0000

Kick type sod cutter is a manual device that is used to cut and move sod. These special types of cutters make cutting out sod that much easier.

The kick type sod cutter is similar to a plow with a built in shovel. It is a mechanical device that uses no oil or gasoline. It comes with a heat treated adjustable blade that makes it very effective at cutting sod.

The kick type sod cutter works by the person placing it at the area where they want to remove the grass. The blade is placed at the spot where the cutting will begin. There is an option to adjust the blade to the height that you want it to cut. The whole objective of the kick type sod cutter is to get the top layer of the grass, as well as the roots.

The blade is pressed into the soil and you move forward once that is done. You will continually have to kick the blade for it to cut the region that you have marked out. It is very labor intensive and it is not easy to use.

The end result is that you will get perfect sod if done properly. This is a great product to use if you are trying to get perfect cut sod, without the use of an expensive mechanical sod cutter.

Kick Type Sod Cutter Price

These products are very expensive and they are rarely found in stores. Large home & garden stores like Home Depot won’t carry the product and you will have to possibly do some research or look online to locate the product.

The kick type sod cutter is priced anywhere from $200+. It is a specialty tool and it is priced like that. This is definitely not a product that someone will purchase only to use once. It is a good investment for people who have a landscaping business or will be planning on using it more than once. For the individual who only wants to use the product once, they can look into rental. Many tool rental places carry it and the prices will vary depending on the region that you are in. This is a good option for individuals who need the use of a manual sod cutter, however do not have the money to make a big purchase.

Fescue Sod

admin — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 01:07:07 +0000

Fescue sod can be used in play areas, sports fields and even around the house. It is a tough and sturdy sod that will be able to stand wear and tear from a host of different activities. This type of grass is best suited for the cooler climates. It will stand up to colder temperatures, but won’t do as well in the hot periods.

When looking at purchasing fescue sod, there are many different varieties available. It is best to research and understand the different ones that are available for use. It is a great grass to use for the control of erosion.

Even though the fescue sod is great for heavy traffic, it is not very resistant to heat. This grass needs to be watered constantly during hot periods or it will quickly get brown.

Once fescue sod has been installed, it will need to be watered every 2-3 days. This is all dependent on the temperature. This water is necessary as it encourages rooting. It will take around 3 weeks for the sod to completely root.

It is best to install fescue sod in the cooler months of the year. This will depend on where you live, but you should be aware that fescue is a cool-climate type of grass and does not perform well in the heat. It will thrive in the cooler periods and during this time is when strong root development will occur. A strong root system that develops after this sod has been laid will determine how effectively it will be able to stand up to the hotter periods of the year.

After your fescue sod has been installed, it is best to apply fertilizer to it at least 2-3 times a year. Fertilizer can be applied when the sod is first laid down. There is a specific starter fertilizer that will allow the growth of the roots for this new lawn. The fescue sod should not be fertilized during the summer months as this can stress the grass and leave open the possibility of fungus.

Watering Sod in the Winter

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 18:59:01 +0000

Sod is an easy and effective way for people to get a nice new lawn for their household. The use of sod is very common and many landscapers and home owners use it to enhance or install a brand new lawn. Most sod is grown at one location, cut and sold to people who need it. There are many different sod farms that grow and sell this product.

Watering Sod in the Winter

When new sod is installed, the first thing that is suggested to owners is that they water the sod. This is to encourage the roots to grow and take hold. This watering needs to be done on a constant basis to ensure the roots grow. Watering the sod may become a problem in the winter time, when the temperature and composition of the ground may make things harder.

During the winter the soil can be frozen and the water can turn to ice. This is definitely not good for new sod. In situations like this, it can make the preparation of the area impossible.

The problem will occur when the new sod is laid down. All sod needs to be watered constantly to ensure that it grows properly. In the winter time, that water will cause problems with the new sod. The new roots have not taken the time to grow and as a result, they have the good possibility of freezing. This is due to the fact that the roots of the sod is directly at the surface of the soil.

There are some species of grass that is used in sod that make it easier to have a successful winter sod installation. Hybrid Bermuda grass that is mixed with ryegrass seed is perfect to be used in winter installations. Sod such as centipede grass and zoysia are the worst for the winter. It should also be noted that when sod is installed during the winter, it will have more weeds, compared to the warmer climates.

Do You Need Fresh Top Soil When Laying Down New Sod

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:18:55 +0000

Many people enjoy the look that a new lawn is able to provide to their household. This can often be accomplished by laying down fresh new sod. People who do this themselves often want to know if they are putting down new sod, do they need to have a fresh layer of top soil?

That question is answered by no necessarily. New top soil does not need to be added if the sod already has a good amount of dirt on it already. There are many different factors that go into answering the question about needing top soil when laying new sod. Factors such as the type of sod, the condition of the treated area, if the sod was cut on that particular day, if the sod is dry and many more, all determine if top soil is needed.

Generally speaking the area will not need top soil. The most important thing to note is that the sod has enough water as this will allow the sod roots to spread quickly. If the sod is watered correctly, then the roots of the sod will spread and take root in the soil.

Sod Weed Control

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:09:11 +0000

Laying a new lawn is always good, this can be done effectively through the use of sod. However one thing that people have to contend with if they go this way is sod weeds. Controlling sod weeds can be difficult, but it can also be done under control if done properly. The first thing that should be done is ensure that the site where the sod is going to be laid is prepared properly. Once the sod is laid, make sure it is watered and fertilized properly. These are two important steps to make sure you do not get sod weeds.

In places that have shade, it might be a problem to keep the density of the sod up. When this occurs, there is the possibility for weeds to appear. Depending on the amount of weeds, people have the option of pulling the weeds out themselves, or using chemicals to destroy these products.

If you are using a chemical, it is very important to know about the different ones which will be purchased. Herbicides are chemicals that are known to be used to kill weeds. Herbicides often fall into two categories, which are preemergent or postemergent. Preemergent herbicides that have the ability to kill weeds as they germinate. Postemergent herbicides have the ability to kill weeds after they have germinated.

When it comes to sound weeds, it is very important to act quickly. If the weeds germinate and grow out of control, it will become much more difficult to get rid of them. Even though postemergent herbicides can be used, it is more effective to control sod weeds using preemergent herbicides.

Sod Weed Control

The area where the newly laid sod will go, should be watered as a way to germinate the existing weeds
Once the weeds germinate, then they should be destroyed using a herbicide.
The dead lawn and weeds should be removed.
This should be repeated as a way to ensure that the weeds are all gone.

Quail Kick Type Sod Cutter

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:55:06 +0000

The Quail sod cutter is manual kick-type cutter that is able to remove sod removes sod for patios, gardens and landscaping. U.S.A. Application: Cutter/Edger, Engine: Manual Kick

What are Kick Type Sod Cutters
Kick type sod cutters are often used to cut out and remove sod. Many times these cutters are often not found in stores; however most hardware stores often rent them. The sod cutter is similar to a shovel and it is very effective at removing sod from an area.

The kick sod cutter makes the removal of sod very easy. All you do is place the cutter into the sod and kick it. As you go through the sod, it is torn from the ground from the roots. This newly cut sod can be rolled up for future use.

Using a Sod Cutter

Using a sod cutter is very easy. Kick type sod cutters are manual and all you need to do is place it on the sod and kick it. Once it is inside, then you can move forward, removing the sod from the root. This is not difficult and you should be able to remove sod quickly and efficiently.

Quail Kick Type Sod Cutter

The Quail Kick Type Sod Cutter is the perfect tool to remove sod. It is very easy to use and it will cut and remove sod without any problems. It is relatively cheap and it is one of the best Kick Type sod cutters available.

Quail Sod Cutter Features

Manual sod cutter
Cuts even 12″ strips of sod
Comes with a roller made of all-steel
Adjustable steel blade
Heat treated blade
Individually constructed
Varnished hardwood handles
Easy-to-handle 26 lbs.
Uses no gasoline or oil
Easy movements from job to job
Perfect for landscapers and homeowners.

Ryan Sod Cutter

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:37:52 +0000

Ryan sod cutter is a brand of sod equipment that is very popular among landscapers and other people who use this product. Created in 1948, this particular cutter was done by a landscaper called Art Ryan. He did this as he needed a sod cutter that was not only sturdy, but one that can be used on a commercial level as well as in the home for tasks such as clearing gardens and flower beds.

The Ryan Sod Cutter Models

There are 4 different models of Ryan Sod cutters available. There are models available to fit any type of job whether it is the home gardener or the professional landscaper.

Ryan Sod Cutter #544844 – This is the smallest Ryan sod cutter model available. It comes with a 6-HP Briggs & Stratton engine that allows it to cut at a height of 2.5″ and 135 feet per minute. It is a self moved cutter. The average price of this model is $3800

Ryan Sod Cutter #544944 - This is just as small as the sod cutter model mentioned above. It comes with a 5.5-HP Honda engine that allows it to cut at a height of 2.5″ and 135 feet per minute. . It is a self moved cutter. The average price of this model is $3900

Ryan Sod Cutter #544845 – It comes with a 6-HP Briggs & Stratton engine that allows it to cut at a height of 2.5″ and 135 feet per minute. It is a self moved cutter. It has a cutting width of 18 inches. The average price of this model is $4300

Ryan Sod Cutter #544945 – It comes with a 5.5-HP Honda engine that allows it to cut at a a height of 2.5″ and 135 feet per minute. It is a self moved cutter. It has a cutting width of 18 inches. The average price of this model is$4300

How Much Does it Cost to Rent a Ryan Sod Cutter?

Because the Ryan Sod Cutters are so expensive many people often opt to rent. Generally it costs around $90 a day to rent this sod cutter from many of the home & garden stores. Some places that rent tools are also able to do it for the half day, this is even better for people who are looking at saving money.

This is a great tool for the commercial landscaper. It has the right size and power to do all the commercial work when it comes to cutting sod.

How to Use a Sod Cutter?

admin — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 15:15:52 +0000

People often need to cut sod for a wide variety of reasons. Some of these reasons may include the movement and removal of sod. Cutting sod is not extremely difficult as there are many different tools that make this process easier. There are tools that range from motorized to hand powered.

Types of Sod Cutters

Sod cutters come into different styles. One looks like a spade with serrated edges, which is contains a specially designed plate that is made specifically to cut sod. The other has two handles and a cutting bade that are squeezed together to cut the sod.

The sod cutter is designed in such a way that it allows for the easy removal of roots and grass.

How to Use a Sod Cutter

The use of a sod cutter is very simple and it is similar to using a shovel. You place the sod cutter in the grass and you then use your foot to make sure it is firmly entrenched into the soil. This movement is similar to that of using a shovel. You will continue to push your foot on the cutter until the sod begins to lift.

The design of the sod cutter ensures that you will not dig too deep. Once you have gotten through the roots, then you can move forward creating a sod roll as you do this.

Generally the sod cutter will be able to create sod rolls that are around 16″ inches wide. Long rolls of sod can be cut and rolled up for future use.

Motorized Sod Cutters

If you on a large piece of land and want to remove the sod, handhelds sod cutters won’t work. You can then opt to use a motorized sod cutter. These machines look like a very big tiller. It rolls on 4 wheels and it is able to cut the sod into very large rectangular pieces, which can be rolled up for future use.

These motorized cutters can be challenging as they are very shaky and noisy. They are difficult to use, if the area is hilly and it is not considered to be a wise option.

When using the machine ensure the height is set to the correct level. Many of these cutters come with locks and they need to be unlocked before use. Once you have done this, turn the blade on and insert it into the sod. Move along with the machine and make sure the throttle is at the right level. Do a test cut to ensure that the cutting depth is at the right height when cutting the sod.

These motorized products can be rented from Home Depot for the day and the cost is around $40-$50. You can also hire someone who owns an automatic sod cutter to do the job.