Home Guides SF Gate Will frost Hurt New Sod?

We are often asked if sod can be installed in winter.The type of sod that you are installing will affect the answer to this question.

Cool season turfgrass can be installed year round in the United States.They can tolerate being planted in the middle of winter if the weather is cool.If the sod is installed in the middle of winter, it will be able to grow once the weather warms up in March.Cool season grasses are normal in the northern part of the country.

It is possible to plant warm season turfgrass in the southern part of the county, but only in areas that are subjected to long term freezing.Freshly established warm season grasses do not have a developed root system and can be killed by extended periods of time below freezing.In Maryland, Zoyia should be installed between April and September.

After installation, sod needs to be watered.The cool weather will keep the ground moist.If the weather warms after sod is installed, it's a good idea to check that the ground is moist.

If you are installing grass that is not active, you do not need to use a starterfertilizer.The grass won't use thefertilizer because it's not growing.Wait until the weather warms and apply a starter fertilization.