Calgary Sod Installation Services

3 Methods of Establishing Turf Grass

Hydroseeding

Hydroseeding is a method of planting grass, plants, or other vegetation using a mixture of seed, mulch, fertilizer, and water. The mixture is applied to the soil surface with a specialized machine that sprays it onto the ground in a uniform layer. The process is often used for erosion control, re-vegetation, and landscaping projects.

Hydroseeding has several advantages over traditional methods of planting. First, it allows for a larger area to be covered in a shorter amount of time, making it more efficient. Second, the mixture used in hydroseeding helps to retain moisture, which can improve germination rates and reduce the need for frequent watering. Finally, the mulch in the mixture helps to protect the soil from erosion and provides nutrients to the growing plants.

The success of hydroseeding depends on several factors, including the quality of the seed, the type and amount of mulch used, and the proper preparation of the soil. It is important to follow the instructions of a trained professional when using this method to ensure the best possible results.

​

Sod

Sod, also known as turfgrass, is a layer of grass and soil held together by roots or other materials, such as mesh, that can be rolled out and installed as a new lawn. Sod is commonly used to establish a new lawn quickly, as it provides instant gratification and reduces the amount of time required for the lawn to become established.

Sod is typically grown on specialized farms and is harvested with machines that cut the grass and soil into long strips or rolls. It can be made from a variety of grass species, here in Calgary the most common types of grass used is Kentucky bluegrass, fescue, and Rye grasses, depending on the climate (sun, shade and traffic) and intended use of the lawn.

Installing sod involves preparing the soil, laying the rolls of sod side by side, and watering it regularly to ensure it establishes roots in the soil below. Once established, sod requires regular maintenance, such as mowing, fertilizing, and watering, to keep it healthy and looking its best.

Sod is a popular option for those who want an instant lawn, but it can be more expensive than other options, such as hydroseeding, over seeding. Additionally, sod requires a lot of water in the beginning to establish roots, and it may require more frequent watering in the long term to maintain its health and appearance.

​

​

Slit Seeding

Slit seeding, also known as slice seeding or overseeding, is a method of planting grass seed in an existing lawn using a specialized machine called a slit seeder. This process involves creating small slices or grooves in the soil and depositing seeds directly into them, ensuring good soil-to-seed contact for improved germination rates.

Slit seeding is typically used to rejuvenate an existing lawn that has become thin, patchy, or otherwise unhealthy. It can also be used to introduce new grass varieties to an existing lawn, such as when transitioning to a more drought-tolerant or disease-resistant type of grass.

The benefits of slit seeding include improved seed-to-soil contact, which leads to higher germination rates and a thicker, healthier lawn. It also helps to reduce soil compaction and improve water and nutrient absorption, leading to better overall lawn health.

Slit seeding is best done in the fall or early spring, when temperatures are cooler and the soil is moist. It is important to properly prepare the lawn before slit seeding, including removing any debris or thatch and ensuring the soil is loose and aerated. After seeding, it is important to water the lawn regularly to keep the soil moist and promote seed germination.