What chemicals do sod farms use?

We fertilize regularly with a mixture of Nitrogen, Potash, and Phosphate. We also use a pre-emerge which discourages the growth of weeds before they start.

Are there chemicals in sod?

Myth #2 Sod Requires More Chemicals And Fertilizer.

Actually, less chemicals are used with sod, compared to using seed. Sod is a professionally grown, healthy and mature turf that is free of weeds and disease-causing pathogens.

What do sod farms use for fertilizer?

American Sod Farms fertilizes every yard we install with 15-15-15 right after we lay your sod! If you want your new California sod to grow in a little bit faster, fertilize two weeks after planting with 15-15-15 (15% nitrogen, 15% phosphorus, 15% potassium).

Do sod farms use herbicides?

Herbicides are often used at planting. Irrigation requirements are high during the early establishment phase on sod farms. Therefore, farm workers will be in the fields working with irrigation soon after planting of seed or vegetative means.

How do sod farms replenish the soil?

U.S. Internal Revenue Service, 1979 Revenue Ruling 79-267: The soil that is removed with each harvesting of sod is partially replenished through the decomposition of grass roots that remain in the soil and through the addition of fertilizer and lime to the soil.

How Do Sod Farms Work? (pt.1)

How do sod farms not lose dirt?

If you pull apart a roll of sod, you really won't find much dirt. The roll of sod is held together with horizontal roots and some decomposing leaf matter that is interwoven. To put this in perspective, one cubic foot of dry dirt weighs about 100 pounds.

How profitable is sod farming?

Although price is quite variable depending upon the operation, a sod producer can expect to sell a piece of sod for $. 85 per square yard. Thus, producing a profit of $. 22 per square yard or about $990 per acre.

How do sod farms not have weeds?

We use fertilizer to push our crops to where they need to be, weed-free. Over the years, we've come up with our own blends of fertilizer that work with our different varieties of grass crops – and we offer those blends to our customers as well, along with the seed we use to germinate our fields.

What is the best fertilizer for marathon grass?

For best results, be sure to use Marathon All-Season Lawn Fertilizer - nitrogen-rich for quick greening, and formulated especially for your Marathon lawn. We also recommend the use of Marathon Sod & Seed Starter, which promotes strong root structure and quicker establishment.

What is grass fertilizer?

The active ingredients in fertilizer are nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K). Nitrogen is responsible for making grass green, phosphorus is slower-acting and promotes root development, and potassium feeds the lawn over time and works to keep it strong during drought and other stressful conditions.

How do you treat marathon grass?

Once the turf begins to root into the soil, irrigating Marathon Lite is the same as the field-grown Marathons. As a general rule, you can water the Marathon Lite once per day for the first three weeks. If dry spots appear in the lawn during the afternoon, the irrigation time should be increased.

What is organic sod?

Natural Turf Grass is grown with organic fertilizers, minimizing the need for synthetic pesticides and herbicides, resulting in a cleaner environment and a safer lawn.

Can you lay sod when it's raining?

Should You Install Sod in Rain? A light drizzle may not be a big deal when you're installing sod; however, It's best not to install sod in heavy rain. Heavy rain makes the ground muddy and harder to work with.

Why is my marathon grass yellow?

Yellow lawn problems could stem from a host of conditions. The most common is dryness but excess nitrogen is another. This is most frequently from dog urine but can also come from over fertilizing. Nitrogen is the first number in a fertilizer ratio.

What type of grass is Marathon II?

Marathon II is our most advanced dwarf tall fescue. It retains the excellent durability of the species while enhancing its beauty. Marathon II can be mowed shorter, has greater density, and slightly narrower leaves, resulting in a more compact carpet-like appearance.

When should I fertilize my sod?

How often do you fertilize new sod? To ensure that your turf remains healthy, feed your lawn 3-4 times during the growing season. A slow-release or controlled-release form of Nitrogen should be used whenever possible, but especially on the spring and fall applications.

How long does it take a sod farm to grow?

Sod farms typically either grow their sod from high-quality seed blends or hybrid sprigs. Once the seeds are planted, it can take anywhere from 10 months to two years to cultivate turf before its ready for harvest. This involves an intensive regimen of watering, mowing and fertilizing.

What type of grass is sod made of?

Sod University discusses different types of common sod grass varieties: zoysia grass, bermuda grass, St. Augustine grass, Kentucky bluegrass and centipede grass.

How do you grow turf?

Does grass deplete soil?

A Soil Fertility Quandary

The fact is, lawns use up nutrients faster than most people realize and it doesn't take long for your soil to become depleted. In order for your lawn to really thrive, it will need approximately four to five fertilizer treatments each year to replace those depleted nutrients.

Does grass improve soil?

Grass roots help improve soil structure by increasing porosity and adding organic material that helps bind soil particles together. In compacted or clay soils, spreading roots break up soil and create pathways through which water can seep deep within the subsoil.

Does sod go to clay?

A lush, green lawn can be created quickly by laying sod. But clay soil must be properly prepared. The addition of organic matter and correct placement of new sod can turn a clay surface into a wide expanse of healthy grass that can last years, given the proper care.

Why is sod muddy?

Muddy grass is a lawn problem that can result from periods of heavy rainfall or over-zealousness with a sprinkler. Water is so heavy it cannot properly drain, which results in mud forming and becoming caked on grass blades. Besides looking unattractive, muddy grass can result in numerous issues for your lawn.

How long can sod sit on pallet?

The answer is somewhat straightforward. In most cases, don't allow your pallets of sod to sit for any longer than 24 hours from being picked to being installed, and that's assuming ideal conditions. Choose a cooler, overcast day for sod installation if possible, as this reduces the stress on the grass.