When installing a lawn there is one of two ways you can go. The first way is to start from scratch with grass seed. The second way is to install sod. Sod is commonly referred to as turf grass. All this means is that the grass is already planted and alive. Installing sod is the equivalent of transplanting an orchid from one pot to another. Both of these methods have their pros and cons. Here’s a rundown of the benefits and drawbacks of both seed and sod before you talk to the professionals for you lawn installation in MA.
Seed Pros
- Seed is cheaper than sod and can be purchased at most hardware stores in your area. This means you don’t have to spend as much or look as hard.
- Spreading out grass seed is much quicker than laying sod. It takes only minutes to spread across your yard.
- Because seeds are easier to find, you have a much wider variety of grasses to choose from. Popular seeds include bluegrass, scutch, and St. Augustine.
- Seed may be the better choice for uneven land. If your lawn is hilly, seed may be the smarter choice.
- Because the seed is germinating in the yard it is going to stay in, its roots grow healthier and stronger.
Seed Cons
- One issue to consider is that not every seed will germinate. If they don’t germinate you will have to lay down more seed in those areas.
- Spreading seeds across soil comes with everything already living in the soil. This allows weeds to grow and thrive with the grass.
- Something to keep in mind is that you can’t use your lawn while the seeds are taking root. You might kick them around so they’ll never grow.
- There is a lot of initial care that comes with planting seeds. You’ll have to water your lawn at least once a day.
- There’s only a limited time of year when grass seeds will take root so you have to get the timing right.
Sod Pros
- Since sod is already planted and rooted, you’ll see immediate results in the health of your yard.
- Seeing as sod rolls out like a blanket across the yard, the likelihood of weeds is lowered. They can’t as easily sprout up between roots.
- Because the root system is already established, sod won’t erode when it rains.
- Sod has a wider birth of when you can plant it. In New England, any of the warm months will be fine.
- With already established grass and roots in the sod, you won’t have to wait to use your yard.
Sod Cons
- Sod is harder to install than seed and takes more time. It’s best to hire a professional lawn installation service when dealing with sod.
- Sod costs more money than seed.
- Because sod is already grown, there is a limited variety to choose from. Popular sods include lawngrass, Kentucky bluegrass, and scutch.
- Different growing conditions get different results with sod. Sod is grown in the sun on a flat surface. If your yard is hilly or shady, your sod may struggle.
- Ideally, sod should be transplanted within 24 hours of it being uprooted. This means a decision has to be made quickly.
While both methods have their upsides and downsides, the decision is up to you. To know which method of lawn installation in MA, contact Cataldo Landscape & Masonry or visit them online here.