– Article Updated October 18, 2024 –
Click HERE for a PRINTABLE PDF Version of this Article
Our customers have many questions about installing sod this time of year (during the cooler months of October and November, and even into December).
We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions with our answers below.
We hope it helps you with your year-end landscaping projects!
FAQs:
Q – Is now (October/November) a good time to install sod for our area?
A – Autumn is one of the best times to install sod (in our region)! Red Hen Turf Farm’s (KBG) Kentucky Bluegrass sod and (FES) Turf-type Tall Fescue sod are a cool-season grasses. Installing sod during cooler months means better survivability and less heat stress. A fall installation date will also allow time for the roots to develop quite a bit prior to the next summer season. And since by October, it’s essentially too late to plant grass seed for a successful fall seeding, sod is a great alternative for an instant lawn.
Q – How much time do I have left to lay sod during the last quarter of the year, and how long are you harvesting sod?
A – We tell our residential customers as a general guide to aim to have all of your landscaping projects wrapped up by Thanksgiving (end of November). We will harvest sod until the ground becomes too frozen for our equipment which is typically in December sometime. Some landscapers install sod in the winter – as long as the site is prepped and ready and we are still able to harvest sod.
Q – How long will my sod survive if I cannot install it right away?
A – During the colder months of October and November, since it’s well under 80 degrees and the risk of “cooking” your sod is no longer an issue, uninstalled sod can hold up for several days. However, no matter what time of year it is, it’s always best to get installed right away so it can transplant as quickly as possible.
Q – How often should I water my new sod this time of year (October/November)?
A – Although most people are finished with watering their established lawns this time of year, you still need to ensure your newly installed sod does not dry out and stays damp after installation until the ground freezes. During the October and November months (cooler weather) moisture from water stays in the soil longer and most people typically do not have issues with sod drying out. Mother nature usually takes over and keeps everything pretty hydrated. Keep in mind that morning frost will not kill the new sod, rather it will add moisture naturally after it thaws. Once the ground freezes for the season, there is no need to water, as the sod will go into a dormant state and finish rooting in the spring.
Not sure if you are getting enough water? Pull up on a piece of sod and look at the soil underneath for signs of moisture.
Q – What if my irrigation system has been winterized?
A – You should get enough irrigation from mother nature unless we have an unseasonably warm fall/winter. Again, it is important to keep the sod hydrated until it goes dormant so checking it frequently is suggested.
Q – Can I fertilize during this time of year (October/November)?
A – If the grass is not actively growing, no fertilizer is needed. Keep in mind, you want to get your last fertilizer treatment down while the grass is still green and before the ground is frozen for the season. We suggest applying your final fertilizer with your last mow of the season. Again, end of November is typically a good time to finish all your landscape projects up for the year.
Q – What else is good to be aware of?
A – Rather than ASSUME that we aren’t able to harvest on a particular day, call to double-check at 574-232-6811 or text us at 574-766-7633. On cold mornings, first we wait until the frost comes off the turf, then we attempt to harvest. Because of this, pick up times can often be 10AM Eastern Time, or later. It could also be the next day! For our Landscaper Customers, please DO NOT promise a customer that they will get sod after Thanksgiving. It is not up to us, but Mother Nature.
For 2024 – The FINAL DAY OF OUR SOD SEASON that we will attempt to do some harvesting, weather-permitting, will be Thursday, December 19, 2024. Then we will take a Holiday Break, and then after the 1st of the Year, our entire crew will be busy getting ready for our 2025 season. If there are any extra nice days in February or March, we tend to give harvesting a try — especially if we receive calls from interested customers… So, again, when in doubt, a quick call will verify what your options might be on any given day.
Until next time!
RED HEN’S KNOWLEDGEABLE CUSTOMER SERVICE / SALES TEAM IS:
Jeremy, Lisa, and Cindy… We’re all glad to be able to assist!
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