Is it OK to plant sod in the summer?

Installing a new lawn can instantly upgrade the curb appeal and functionality of any outdoor space. While spring and fall are considered ideal times for laying sod, it is possible to plant sod in summer under the right conditions. There are some challenges to contend with in summer, but with careful preparation and proper maintenance, summer sod can thrive.

Can you lay sod in summer?

Yes, it is possible to lay sod in the summer, but there are some caveats. The main considerations are:

• Hot temperatures – Sod needs to establish roots fast to survive, and extremely high heat can hurt or kill new grass before it takes hold. Avoid the hottest days.
• Intense sun – The hot summer sun can dry out new sod before roots form. Provide ample shade or use tarps to protect the sod in the first weeks.
• Lack of rain – Sod requires constant moisture while taking root, so supplemental watering is key when rainfall is scarce.
• Weed/pest pressure – Weeds and pests thrive in summer and can outcompete establishing sod. Treatments may be needed.

As long as you properly account for these factors and are prepared to provide extra care, summer sod can grow in successfully.

What are the best times to lay sod?

The very best times to install sod are generally:

• Spring – Cooler temperatures, frequent rain, and lower weed pressure make spring ideal for sod growth.
• Fall – Warm soil, moderate temperatures, and less intense sun are beneficial in fall.

Summer planting is possible but requires more maintenance. Avoid the hottest part of summer if you can.

What type of sod is best for summer?

The type of grass used for summer sod will impact results. Recommended varieties include:

• Bermudagrass – Heat tolerant and aggressive spread.
• Zoysia – Handles heat and resists pests.
• St. Augustine – Thrives in heat and spreads quickly.
• Centipedegrass – Low maintenance and fairly drought resistant.

Always choose sod that is suited for your specific climate and conditions.

How to prepare the ground for summer sod

Proper soil preparation is crucial prior to laying any sod, and especially so in summer. Key steps include:

1. Eliminate existing vegetation – Remove all previous grass, weeds, rocks and debris from the area.
2. Level and till – Rake thoroughly and till to a depth of 4-6 inches to loosen compacted soil.
3. Improve drainage – Incorporate compost or topsoil to improve water retention and drainage.
4. pH test – Test and adjust soil pH to match the ideal range for your sod type (6.0-7.0 for most).
5. Fertilize – Mix in starter fertilizer according to package rates before laying sod.
6. Moisten soil – Water area deeply 1-2 days before sod installation.

Laying and watering tips for summer sod

Once prepped, follow best practices when installing and watering summer sod:

• Lay pieces tightly – Eliminate gaps between sod strips or pieces to prevent weeds.
• Stagger seams – Offset sod joints like bricks for better stability.
• Roll sod – Use roller to press sod firmly against soil for better contact.
• Use stakes – On slopes, stake sod pieces in place while roots establish.
• Water lightly, frequently – Water new sod 2-3 times daily to keep soil moist but not soaked.
• Provide 1-1.5 inches/week – Increase watering if no rain to provide adequate moisture.

Caring for summer sod once installed

The first 2-3 weeks after laying summer sod require diligent care for the new grass. Tips include:

• Provide shade – Use tarps or shade cloth to protect tender new sod.
• Mist often – Use sprinkler or misting system to cool and moisten grass several times daily.
• Mow after 2 weeks – Once rooted, mow high (3”) to encourage growth, not looks.
• Weed control – Monitor and remove weeds, and use herbicides if needed per product instructions.
• Adjust water – Increase watering duration if sod shows drought stress.
• Avoid traffic – No walking on new sod for at least 2 weeks to prevent damage.

Ongoing observation and care is needed until the sod establishes a strong root system.

Signs sod is failing or dying

Watch for these signs of stressed, declining or dying sod:

• Pale, yellowing color
• Loss of vigor and thickness
• No new shoots or blades
• Mushy, spongy feel
• Pinholes or dry patches
• Weeds invading bare areas
• Failure to root after 2-3 weeks

At the first signs of a problem, adjust maintenance practices to remedy issues like irrigation, drainage, pests or diseases.

What to do if summer sod is failing

If despite best efforts sod begins dying, options include:

• Identify and correct underlying issues – Consult an expert to diagnose problems.
• Replace dead patches – Cut out bare or dead areas and install fresh sod.
• Wait for fall – Remove all dead sod and re-sod when cooler weather arrives.
• Install alternative – Consider drought-tolerant ground cover or xeriscaping instead.

With close monitoring and quick action, struggling summer sod can often be salvaged.

Conclusion

Summer sodding is possible but challenging. For best results:

• Select heat and drought resistant sod types
• Thoroughly prepare soil before laying sod
• Provide temporary shading until established
• Water frequently and deeply
• Control weeds and pests
• Avoid traffic on new sod
• Be prepared to provide extra care

With attentive maintenance through the summer heat, sod can successfully take root and thrive.