Laying new sod is vital, especially when moving to a new home. It helps prevent erosion if the ground is bare. But many homeowners wonder: Can you lay sod over snow? In this article, you’ll learn more about laying sod over snow and the reasons for doing so.
You can lay sod over snow, but the soil has to be rototilled and raked properly before it freezes. If you live in Oregon and neighboring states, laying your sod over snow is perfect. The types of grass that do well over snow include Zoysia, St. Augustine, and Bermuda grass.
Can You Lay Sod Over Snow?
It’s a good idea to lay sod over snow. Nevertheless, it depends on your yard’s location and the type of grass you’re installing. The types of sod that do well over snow are Tall Fescue, Bermuda, St. Augustine, and Zoysia grass. All of the southern states in the United States are ideal for planting sod during snowfall.
There are various reasons why laying sod over snow is an exceptional idea. They are as follows;
1. Snow covers the ground when temperatures are low. It’s a good idea to lay sod at this time, as it can survive up to 15 days before installation. Therefore, you’ll have enough time to finalize the installation process.
2. Newly laid sod requires regular watering to keep the grass moist. However, when you lay sod over snow, you only water once – immediately after installation.
3. Sod is among the crops that prevent runoff during heavy rains. Planting it over snow helps stabilize the soil.
4. Laying sod over snow is cost-effective as you don’t have to apply fertilizers. The grass will remain dormant until the hot season when the temperature warms. That is when you will need to fertilize the ground in order for snow to grow properly.
Why Lay Sod Over Snow?
When you construct a new home, you must meet some conditions to get a certificate of occupancy. One of them is that if your ground is bare, you must grow some plants. These crops help control soil erosion and stabilize the ground.
One of the easiest plants to grow on such land is sod. So, even if it’s winter and the soil is covered with snow, laying sod helps homeowners solve the problem quickly.
What Temperature Is Too Cold for Sod?
Laying sod requires optimum conditions. A frozen ground or one with snow is too cold for laying sod. Although the grass will germinate, it will take more time than during warm temperatures.
Installing sod when the soil is frozen, and the temperatures are deep freezing will kill your sod. The best idea is to lay sod during early fall for it to survive throughout the winter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the coldest you can lay sod?
A: The ideal temperature for laying sod is 55-65 degrees Celsius. This is either during spring or fall, as the temperatures are mild then.
Q: How long does it take for the sod to root in winter?
A: It takes 3-4 weeks for the sod to germinate during winter and 1 to 2 weeks during summer. Note warm temperatures fasten sod’s root development.
Q: What time of the year is best to lay sod?
A: The best time of the year to lay sod is during the early fall or early spring.
Final Thoughts
Many believe that laying sod over snow is bad because grass becomes dormant. Contrary to this belief, installing sod over snow is one of the best ideas. However, this depends on your location and the type of sod you want to plant. There are several benefits associated with laying sod over snow. This sod uses less fertilizer and water and helps stabilize the soil.
