When the water in the atmosphere settles, frost occurs. When a hard frost hits and settles on your grass it is likely you will see dead patches in your lawn as a result. This is because when grass tries to pull water through its blades the frost freezes inside and kills it.
This phenomenon will not happen with turfgrass. Laid sod stays dormant until the spring when the warmer weather hits and when its roots begin to grow deeper for water and nutrition. This turf is more durable, especially during cold winter months. In fact, it is okay to lay sod in the winter months because of this, and frost has no negative long-term impact on turf.
During the winter months, turf is dormant, and as long as the ground isn’t frozen, sod can be laid. There are some great benefits to laying sod in Colorado during winter including:
No burning. Turf rolls must be laid immediately in the summer months to prevent overheating and burning which kills the grass. In the winter, this isn’t the case. Rolls last longer and just need to be thawed before being rolled out.
Less water. In the warmer months, constant watering is required to help your sod take root and avoid becoming dry. This isn’t true in the winter when there is little to no water required.
Prevents erosion. When sod is laid, even if it is dormant, it helps to prevent erosion and muddy areas in the yard. Once the warmer weather arrives, your grass will already be in place and can take root.
Tips for Laying Sod in the Winter
The tips for laying sod in the winter are similar to any other time of year. The main difference is in the amount of water to be given.
Be sure to prepare the ground prior to laying out the sod by clearing it of any growth (weeds, grass, or debris).
Talk to a sod supplier to determine the best fertilizer, sod type, and the amount of sod needed for your project.
Be sure the sod is defrosted before it’s rolled out, as cutting it will be impossible.
Lay the sod perpendicular to any slope. Place strips of sod in a brick-like pattern with short edges up against each other without a gap or overlap.
Freezing temperatures will not hurt your sod if it is rolled properly and watered appropriately.
Avoid walking on your turf while it is covered in frost to prevent damage.
Caring for your sod doesn’t have to be hard, but using the right kind for your needs is important to keep it beautiful. Whether you are shopping for sod products, needing new sod, help with installing new sod, or wanting support with sod care, contact Emerald Sod Farms today to learn more about the best sod for Colorado, applications, and pricing.