Harvesting Sod

How is sod harvested?

Sod is ready for harvesting between 12 and 18 months after it’s planted, depending on the variety of grass. The extended growing period gives the grass enough time to form strong root systems which won’t break apart.

It’s harvested using a tractor that cuts the sod at the desired thickness and width. We leave a “ribbon” of grass every 16 inches so the grass can grow back together for the next yield. One person drives the harvester and controls the specifics of the sod cut, the automated machine does the rest. These pallets are then loaded by forklift onto trucks and transported to homes, businesses and schools.

How is sod grown?

Sod is grown on our local farms that specialize in sod production. When planting a new grass field, the farmer treats and grades the soil, sets up an irrigation system and places sprigs of the variety of grass chosen for the field. Sprigs are small pieces of grass, taken from blocks off of a stock pallet, which are then chopped up and spread throughout the farm with a machine. After the sprigging process, the farm is rigorously maintained until the sprigs have grown together to produce a full field of grass ready to harvest. During that time the grass fields are kept well fertilized, undergo frequent watering and are mowed on a regular basis.

How is sod different from seeding?

Seeding involves planting the grass seeds in the spot that they will eventually grow. Sod, on the other hand, is already mature grass that takes root in a new location. Newly laid sod is ready for use in about thirty days. A seeded lawn takes much longer to grow and can’t be walked on until the grass is at least two inches tall.