New lawn help… First lawn!

ssj5 – posted 08 April 2004 08:11

Hello all! I recently purchased my first house, it was new construction located just east of Atlanta, Ga. The front has standard bermuda sod. The back was seeded with fescue. Landscaping was done in mid-january, and I haven’t cut anything yet, just been watering weekly. I would like bermuda sod in the back also, I’ve been told by the landscaper that it would take about 4-5 pallets of sod. A “do-it-yourself” job is in the budget, but I can’t afford to pay for professional job. What would I need to do to “prep” the yard for sod? It currently has some fescue, weeds, and bare spots. The original straw covering is also on the ground. The backyard is also slightly rocky due to the fact the builder graded into a hill to make my lot level. Should I till the back yard? Or just roundup a few times then sod? Should I put down top-soil? And last question… how do I get a pH test of my soil?

Thanks for any help! I just want to have a great looking yard!

ted – posted 08 April 2004 14:08

yeah, you can roundup it first. a pallet of sod goes about 500 sq. ft.sounds like it wasn’t seeded properly. no tilling- waste of time. on the soil test, take it to a garden center or cooperative extension office and test it for ph, potassium, and phosphorous, etc. good time of year for sodding in your area.