Install your sod before it gets hot in Austin.
Landscaping in Texas' capital, Austin, is a joy. The subtropical weather, with its hot summers and relatively dry, mild winters affords residents plenty of opportunities to get out in the garden. Planting sod provides an instant lawn to serve as the forefront or backdrop for many of the spectacular plants that can be grown in Austin. The best time to plant sod in Austin is in late fall or early spring. The earlier you plant it, the more time it will have to become established before the onset of the hot Austin summer. St. Augustine grass is best for shady areas in Austin yards, while Buffalograss will work for those seeking a low-maintenance lawn. For additional recommendations, contact your county office of Texas A&M University's Cooperative Extension. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Draw a diagram of the area in which you wish to plant the sod. Measure the area and include the measurements on the diagram. Turf scientists at Texas A&M University recommend that you include in your diagram the dimensions of other structures within or around the planting area, such as sidewalks, driveways and plant beds. Take the diagram with you when you purchase the sod and allow the nursery specialists to help you determine the amount of sod you will need.
2. Deliver a soil sample to your county Texas A&M Cooperative Extension office for analysis. The price is quite reasonable, $10 in 2010, and the information you will receive will be of immense help when planting the sod.
3. Purchase any soil amendments recommended by the soil analysis.
4. Rake the planting area to remove any debris and vegetation.
5. Apply a non-selective herbicide to the planting area and allow it to remain for 2 weeks. Rake the area again to remove any additional dead vegetation.
6. Rototil the area to a depth of 4 inches. Add the soil amendments at the rate recommended and til those into the soil to the same depth.
7. Pack the soil with the lawn roller. It should be flat, with no peaks or valleys, and 1 inch below the sidewalk level.
8. Lay the first pieces of sod along a straight line, such as the driveway or sidewalk. Stagger subsequent patches of sod in a brick-like pattern, pushing them tightly together. Cut the sod with a knife to fit around corners. If you end up with gaps between any of the pieces, fill them with sand.
9. Roll the sod with the lawn roller.
10. Water the newly-planted sod immediately, to a depth of 4 inches, and water everyday to ensure the soil remains evenly moist. You may need to pull up a piece of sod and check the soil beneath it to make sure you are giving it enough water. As the weather warms in Austin, water deeper, but less frequently.
Tags: planting area, Cooperative Extension, depth inches, lawn roller, soil amendments, Texas University
