Sod is pre-grown turfgrass, including a thin layer of soil and the root system, harvested from a specialized farm. It is typically cut into uniform squares or long rolls for easy transportation and rapid installation of an established lawn. Visually assessing the sod, whether on a pallet or being laid, is the primary way to determine its quality and potential for successful establishment.
The Anatomy of a Sod Section
A single piece of sod is a composite of three distinct layers that create a cohesive, transplantable unit. The uppermost layer is the grass shoot, consisting of the blades and stems, which form the visible green surface. Beneath the blades is the dense, interwoven root mat, which is the structural element holding the section together.
This root mat is a fibrous network of roots and horizontal stems (rhizomes or stolons) that tightly bind the soil particles. This dense webbing allows the turf to be mechanically sliced and rolled without disintegrating. The bottom layer is the thin bed of soil, typically a half-inch to one inch thick, which remains attached when harvested. This soil provides initial nutrient and moisture support until the roots grow into the underlying ground after installation.
Visual Indicators of High-Quality Sod
High-quality sod presents a uniform, vibrant appearance reflecting its health and maturity. The grass blades should exhibit a deep, consistent green color, indicating active photosynthesis and proper nitrogen levels. Look for a dense cover of grass where the blades are packed tightly, preventing light from reaching the soil surface.
The thickness should be uniform, generally around one inch, allowing for sufficient root mass. When gently lifted, the piece should hold its shape firmly, demonstrating the root mat’s strength. Inspecting the underside reveals the root system, which should appear dense, white, and tangled like a fine mesh, signaling freshness and robust growth potential. The sod should also feel cool and slightly damp, confirming it maintains appropriate moisture levels and has not been subjected to excessive heat stress.
Identifying Unhealthy or Damaged Sod
Unhealthy or damaged sod shows visual signs of being compromised, stressed, or diseased. Extensive discoloration, such as large patches of yellow, grayish, or straw-brown grass, suggests dehydration or nutrient deficiency. Sod that is dry, brittle, or crumbles easily when handled has likely been cut too long or allowed to dry out, resulting in a weakened root structure.
A sour or fermented odor emanating from the rolls is a poor sign, often indicating anaerobic decomposition caused by excessive heat and moisture while stacked. The root system on the underside may look sparse, dark, or brown instead of a healthy white, signaling dead or poorly developed roots. Fungus or pests may also be visible, appearing as white or dark spots, powdery residue on the blades, or thin, easily torn areas.