A manual sod cutter is a specialized, wheeled tool featuring a sharp, adjustable blade designed to slice and separate turf from the underlying soil. This hand-operated device allows users to remove intact strips of grass without the heavy machinery of motorized cutters. Its primary function is to prepare a ground area for new installations, such as garden beds or patios, by efficiently removing the existing turf layer. The tool is also useful for carefully relocating healthy sod to a new area or for creating trenches to repair utility lines beneath a lawn.
Preparing the Area for Cutting
Before beginning the cutting process, proper ground preparation ensures the most efficient and smooth removal of the turf. The soil must be moderately moist, but not saturated or muddy, which would make the sod heavy and difficult to handle. Watering the area thoroughly one or two days before the work allows the moisture to penetrate and soften the soil, making it much easier for the blade to slide beneath the root system.
Clear the entire work area of surface obstructions, including stones, sticks, or hoses. If the removal area is not the entire lawn, clearly define the boundaries using a marking tool like spray paint or by laying down a string line.
Set the blade depth on the manual sod cutter. The goal is to slice just beneath the root system, which for most turfgrass means setting the blade to cut between 1 and 2 inches deep. Adjusting the blade to this shallow depth ensures the sod strip remains cohesive while minimizing the amount of heavy soil removed with the grass.
Step-by-Step Manual Sod Cutting Technique
To begin the cut, place the sod cutter at the starting edge of the marked area, ensuring the blade rests flat on the ground. Some users find it helpful to first create a small initial trench with a flat spade to set the blade at the correct depth. The manual sod cutter is operated by holding the handles and using your body weight to drive the blade forward.
The technique involves a steady, forward-pushing motion, often supplemented by kicking the crossbar with the foot to apply the necessary force. Maintaining a low handle position helps keep the blade level and ensures a consistent cutting depth along the entire strip. Strive to keep the tool moving in a straight line to create uniform strips that are easier to roll and manage.
Aim to cut strips about 12 inches wide, which is the common width for manual sod cutters. As you complete one strip, immediately begin the next one parallel to it, slightly overlapping the cut edge of the first strip. This small overlap prevents leaving thin, uncut ribbons of grass between your passes.
When you reach a manageable length, use a spade or sharp utility knife to make a vertical cut, separating the sod strip from the main lawn. A manageable length for rolling is typically between three and five feet, as longer strips become excessively heavy once rolled. For any slight curves or corners, pivot the tool gradually, maintaining consistent forward pressure to ensure the blade continues to slice horizontally beneath the turf.
Handling the Removed Sod Strips
Once the sod strip is separated, roll the strips up tightly, similar to a carpet, to make them easy to move and stack. Rolling the sod with the grass side facing inward helps to protect the delicate root system and soil from drying out.
Be mindful of the weight, as wet sod rolls can be extremely heavy, requiring proper lifting techniques to avoid strain. If the sod is being reused, keep it moist and transplant it quickly to maximize survival. For temporary storage, stack the rolls in a shaded area and lightly sprinkle them with water.
If the sod is not reused, it can be repurposed. The strips can be placed upside down in a compost pile to break down. They can also be used to fill low areas in the yard or separated into soil and grass components for composting or mulching.
Tool Cleanup and Storage
Immediately clean the manual sod cutter after use to preserve its performance and longevity. Use a stiff brush or a hose to remove all remaining soil, grass clippings, and debris from the blade and wheels. Allowing wet soil to dry on the metal components can lead to rust formation and hinder the blade’s effectiveness during the next use.
Once the tool is clean and dry, apply a light coating of machine oil or silicone lubricant to the metal blade and any moving parts. This protective layer helps prevent corrosion and ensures the mechanisms operate smoothly. Periodically inspect the blade for nicks or dullness, as a sharp, smooth blade is paramount for a clean, effortless cut.
Store the manual sod cutter in a dry location, such as a garage or shed, to protect it from the elements. When putting the tool away, ensure the cutting blade is raised or protected to prevent accidental damage to the blade or injury to anyone handling the tool.