Dry Sod
When sod is harvested, its root system is severed and can no longer access water from the earth. It is not unusual for the sod to begin to dry out as soon as it is harvested. How dry the sod becomes will vary depending on ambient temperatures, farm irrigation rotation, weather, sod variety, wind speeds, etc. For example, grass will dry out much quicker during the hottest months.
Sod is a living product that relies on prompt installation and proper irrigation to pull out of harvest/transplant shock and establish healthily. Please thoroughly read our Grass Care page for instructions, tips, and resources on determining your sprinkler system’s efficiency to ensure your sod receives adequate water. As pictured above, the top blocks and the edges of the blocks will dry out the most.
As mentioned previously, prompt installation will be the most critical factor in determining the sod’s health and quicker green-up. Depending on pre-install ground prep, ambient temperatures, weather, and your irrigation schedule, the sod should green back up within 2-3 weeks with proper water. If you notice your sod declining versus improving over these first three weeks, please reach out to us as soon as the decline is observed. Please allow at least 2-3 days post-installation for observable signs of improvement.
Common Causes:
- Ambient Temperatures 80°F & Up
- Delayed Installation
- Improper Installation (gaps, overlapping, etc.)
- Sod Variety (Bermuda yellows quicker)
- Soil Condition
- Shallow Soil Cultivation
- Soil Compaction
- Wind Speeds
- Delayed Irrigation
- Irrigation Method (hand watering)
- Irrigation Malfunction
- Sloping/Water Runoff
- Top Blocks (more exposed to wind & sun)
Resolution:
- Day of Delivery Pictures
- Day of Delivery Contact
- Proper Ground Prep
- Prompt Installation
- Prompt Irrigation
- Proper Irrigation Method
- Proper Irrigation Schedule
