TURF INSTALLATION GUIDE

• Install your lawn immediately upon delivery.  Begin watering lawn within 30 minutes after installation.  Turf is a living plant that requires ground contact and moisture to survive!
• In hot weather, protect unlaid turf by placing rolls in shade.  Sprinkling rolls lightly to maintain moisture with water is the best, however, do not cover with a tarp of any kind.
• Begin installing turf along the longest straight line, such as a driveway or sidewalk.  Butt and push edges and ends against each other tightly, without stretching.  Avoid gaps or overlaps.  Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like pattern, using a sharp utility knife to trim corners, etc.  Score and cut grass on the dirt side only.  Avoid leaving small strips at outer edges, as they will not retain  moisture.  On slopes, place the turf pieces across the slope.
• To avoid causing indentations or air pockets avoid repeated walking or kneeling on the turf while it is being installed or just after watering.
• As an option, roll the entire area to improve turf/soil contact and remove air pockets.  If you have done a meticulous job with your ground prep and grading, rolling is not necessary. 
• Weather conditions will dictate the amount and frequency of watering.  Be certain that your new lawn has enough moisture to survive hot, dry, or windy periods.  Water areas near buildings more often where reflected heat dries the turf.  Please see our watering guide for details.
• During the first three weeks, avoid heavy or concentrated use of your new lawn.  This gives the roots an opportunity to firmly knit with the soil, and insures that the turf will remain smooth.
• Your new sod lawn increases your property value significantly.  With proper care, it will remain a great asset, providing beauty, a clean playing surface, and an improved environment.
• Mow often, generally removing no more than 1/3 of the grass height at a mowing.  Keep your mower blade sharp to avoid damaging the grass.  Ripped or torn grass blades can cause discoloration.
• Do not forget to fertilize your lawn.  Ask us about our Southwest Farms special blend fertilizer.  We recommend that you fertilize at the time of installation.  Either the bare dirt or the installed turf may be fertilized.  From then on, fertilize the lawn with spring summer and fall holidays:  Easter, Memorial Day, 4^th of July, and Labor Day.  You should also fertilize in the late October as well. 
• For additional or more specific fertilizer and maintenance requirements, please call our office at 719-948-2014.

Information adapted from Turf Producers International information.

Southwest Farms Inc.
214 39^th Lane – Hwy. 96 East
Pueblo, CO 81006
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719-948-2014