Frequently Asked Questions

Many of our customers ask us questions and would like to learn more about the process
of growing sod. If you’re one of those curious cats, this is your playground!

Select a Category
General Sod Questions
Lawn Preparation
Watering
Mowing
Fertilization
Weed Control
Insect Control

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• Proper in-ground irrigation system has been installed and ensures adequate, uniform, and consistent coverage.
• Soil was properly prepared and recommended installation and maintenance procedures were followed.
• Sod was installed on the same day as delivery.
• Sod receives adequate sunlight (6 hours/day)
• Sod has not been damaged by pets or wild animals.
• Sod has not been burned by chemicals or fertilizers.

Q: How long does it take to grow sod?
The length of time it takes to grow mature sod will vary based on 2 things: Soil & Climate. Green Acres’ sod is grown on peat soil and usually takes about 11 months to go from seed to sod. The reason it takes that long is the root system must mature enough to hold the sod roll together without it falling apart when it is harvested.

Q:  Do you have it to replenish the topsoil or black dirt in your fields year after year?
Luckily, no. The truth is that we would lose more soil to wind and evaporation if the soil were bare, rather than us harvesting sod from it year after year. Our fields are in “peat bogs” that are generally 15- 30 feet deep of peat (also known as “black dirt”) The field level may lower slightly after years and years of harvesting but the truth is you don’t remove that much soil with a roll of sod. Much of the thickness you see or feel is the root system. Another thing that helps is when you repeatedly mow the grass and do not remove the clippings, the mulch builds up the “pad” of your grass carpet.

Q: What is better, seeding or sodding?
To start new or replace old lawns, people wonder which is better - sod or seed. While seeding can prove easier to start, most people choose sod for two key reasons: laying sod is fast and provides high-quality new lawns almost instantly!

Q: How long will sod stay good after delivered?
Same-day installation is vital to the success of the new lawn! Sod is extremely perishable and will begin to degrade quickly.

Q: How soon can I walk on the new sod?
During the first three weeks, avoid heavy or concentrated use on your lawn to allow the roots to firmly knit with the soil and ensure the turf remains smooth. All of us at Green Acres thank you and hope you and your family enjoys your new lawn for many years to come.

View "How To" Articles on Sod

Lawn Preparation General

Q: Do I need to aerate my lawn?
If you have some high traffic areas that seem to go brown, it may require you to aerate the soil to loosen the soil compaction from the traffic.

View "How To" Articles on Soil Preparation

Watering General
Correct watering is the key to having a good lawn from sod. For at least 7-10 days after installation, the new sod must be watered frequently to keep it moist at all times. Be sure that the water penetrates the soil to a depth of at least 6 inches. Under hot, dry and windy conditions it may be necessary to sprinkle the new sod several times a day to avoid wilt and damage. For best results, stay off the lawn for the first 10 days. Once it becomes established, fescue will develop a deep root system. Therefore, a deep watering program will give you the best results. Seasonal and weather conditions will usually dictate the water requirements of your lawn. Under normal conditions and during cooler months, a twice weekly watering should be sufficient. Daily watering will be required during very hot weather. Remember to water thoroughly each time and allow the lawn to moderately dry out between watering intervals. For best results, always water during the morning hours. If areas of your lawn appear to wilt or take on a bluish-gray look, water immediately and more frequently.

Q: Does the type of sprinkler system make any difference?
Just make sure you have enough overlapping coverage of your entire lawn.

View "How To" Articles on Watering

Mowing General
Your first mowing will occur after 1 - 1 1/2 weeks. Mow your lawn on a weekly basis at a height of 2"-3". For best results use a rotary mower with a sharp blade. Never scalp or remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade top growth in one mowing. Always collect and remove grass clippings.

View "How To" Articles on Mowing

Fertilizing General
Your sod has recently been fertilized at Green Acres Sod Farms Inc. and does not need additional fertilizer for the first month. It is recommended to apply fertilizer every 4 to 6 weeks during the growing season to maintain a healthy lush green lawn.

Q: Do you have to fertilize your grass?
Well, no I guess not. But you’ll probably wish you had! Your grass is a living organism, much like yourself. You could stop eating...but sooner than later you’re not going to look so good and eventually your life will come to an end. If you eat foods that are rich in nutrients you will keep your body healthy, you will look better, feel better, and more than likely live longer than someone who does not. Fertilizer is the food and nutrients for your grass or flowers. There are nutrients naturally in the soil, but each soil is different, and amounts get depleted and used up by organisms feeding on them. That is why you should apply fertilizer every 4-6 weeks to your yard or garden.

Q: What exactly are the 3 numbers on the fertilizer bag?
The numbers represent the percent (by weight) of :

1. Nitrogen –  promotes overall grass shoot growth and green color
2. Phosphorous –  promotes strong root growth
3. Potassium -  helps grass withstand stress such as drought or disease

Q: Can I apply a fertilizer with phosphorous in it?
Minnesota legislature has passed a law that restricts spreading any phosphorous fertilizer on established grass. The only exceptions are for new seeding or sodding for the first year, or if a soil test shows that it is deficient in Phosphorous. More detail pertaining to the law can be found in Chapter 18C.60 of Minnesota Statues (http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/stats/18C/).

Weed Control General
If it becomes necessary to use chemical weed controls, use extreme caution to avoid damaging your lawn. Consult with your local nurseryman before using any herbicides and always follow the product label directions carefully.

Insects General
Most insects that damage lawns can be controlled with routine applications of insecticides at the manufacturer's recommended rate. Be sure to consult your nurseryman regarding the proper use of an insecticide.