One of the most asked questions about installing sod is, can you lay sod over existing grass?
The short answer is Yes. However, I wouldn’t recommend doing it in most situations.
Before you start, there are some things you should consider.
Laying new sod over existing grass is a common practice to give your lawn a quick facelift or to repair problem areas in your yard.
There may be times when you don’t need a whole new lawn, and you may have only a few dead or damaged areas you want to repair.
Can You Lay Sod Over Existing Grass?
You may wonder if you can simply lay sod over your existing grass to achieve a luscious, green lawn. Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple. You need to do a few things first to prepare the ground and ensure that your new turfgrass will take root and thrive.
Laying Sod over Old Grass
You may be wondering if you can lay sod over old grass. The answer is yes! This is a quick way to lay your grass fast. .
Here’s what you need to know about the process.
When you lay new grass over an existing lawn, the old vegetation begins to decompose. The decomposition process produces heat and gasses, which may adversely affect your new grass.
However, there are cases where you can install sod over the existing turf areas..
Install Sod On Bare Ground vs. Existing Grass?
This is a quick way to make your lawn look new very quickly.
Things to consider. When you lay new turf over your grass.
Turfgrass needs three main things to thrive.
You can kill your new turf when you put new sod over old sod.
Proper preparation is the key to beautiful results.
Improper installation can result in an uneven yard with a bumpy surface.
Bare soil
Cons of Laying Sod on Top of Grass
When you lay sod on top of the old grass, the grass underneath dies and starts to break down.
You want to do it right the first time.
I suggest you take a little more time to prepare your turf area before you start laying. You wouldn’t want to make a mistake that costs you more to repair than the original project cost .
When you don’t kill or remove the old grass and weeds, there’s a chance they can regrow after your sod is laid.
Air pockets
Excess heat from decomposition
Gasses beneath the sod
Insufficient soil contact
These result in brown pieces, which goes through a stressful period but recovers, or grass that cannot recover and dies.
Your New Sod Won’t Root.
If you don’t remove the old lawn, the roots should have direct contact with the soil to form a root system. The roots may not be able to reach the soil and access the proper nutrients from the topsoil. Roots need to establish contact.
Old weeds may resurface
It’s best to remove as much vegetation as you can. Weeds that you did not eliminate during the installation may reappear in your new lawn. People don’t realize that weeds are extremely resilient, and some can easily grow through your new grass.
Your Grass May Turn Brown And Die
Heat stress from being unable to access moisture to regulate heat transfer and respiration.
How to prep your soil before laying new sod
If you want to get the best results, you should consider removing the old turf.
Sod takes root when it makes contact with the soil beneath it .
First, kill the existing grass. You can do this with herbicide or by physically removing the grass.
Remove the old lawn and weeds.
Remove debris
Next, rake and prepare the soil for the new turf .
Rake the soil
if your soil is hard or compacted, you may need to till. Loose soil helps the grass grow better.
Organic matter helps with water retention and establishes a healthy growing environment.
It also allows the grass roots to access the nutrients it needs to survive. Soil contact helps roots take hold
Following these steps will help you have a successful installation project.
How to lay sod on top of existing grass
If you want to lay the sod on top of existing grass, you’ll first need to mow the grass as short as possible. This will help the new sod roots establish themselves more easily. You’ll also need to remove any debris, such as rocks or sticks, from the area. Then, use a garden rake or power tiller to loosen the top layer of soil so that it’s easier for the new roots to penetrate.
Start laying the sod as soon as you can, and place the pallets close to your work area. This makes the pieces easier to put in place. When you start without proper planning and preparation, you end up adding more time to the project.
How to Lay Sod Over Grass
Laying sod over existing grass is possible, but it’s essential to know a few things before you get started.
First, make sure that the existing grass is short. It should be no more than 2 inches tall.
If the grass is too long, it will be difficult to lay it evenly.
Second, remove any debris from the area where you’ll be doing the installation.
Doing this will help ensure that your lawn has a good foundation to grow.
Finally, water the area well before and after you lay the sod.
Water will help the sod establish roots and prevent it from drying out.
Summary
Can You Put Sod Down Over Existing Grass?
Yes, You Can, But There are some things you should be ready for.
These are a few tips that will hopefully help you, no matter if you’re a homeowner, property owner, manager, or someone who has a turf project. The main objective is to have time to enjoy your new lawn.
Remember your lawn needs proper nutrients, irrigation, and sunlight to maintain a healthy lawn. A good lawn care program will help keep your grass looking good.
If you want to lay fresh sod on existing sod you should consider the end results before you do.
Water your lawn regularly.
How Many Square Feet In A Pallet Of Sod?
landscaper
