Top line look at big yard care

To sod or seed? That is the question. It turns out that both have their advantages and drawbacks. A conversation with Dr. Van Cline, Ph.D., agronomist for The Toro Company reveals a few tips to help you choose.The Short AnswerHands down, the fastest and most hassle-free way to create a lawn is with sod. "If you need instant lawn, sod is the way to go," says Dr. Cline. "But establishing a lawn from sod that stays vigorous for years to come requires more work than the average homeowner might think. Seeding is just as good or better if done correctly."Preparing the SoilThe key to success for both methods lies in preparing the area you're seeding or sodding. Prepare the planting bed with a good rooting medium. Cline recommends a minimum of eight to ten inches of healthy soil. "A deep, well aerated planting bed encourages good vertical root growth. And a healthy root system translates into great looking turf."Healthy soil does not mean hauling in new soil unless absolutely necessary. More times than not existing soil is fine if it's well aerated and well drained.Having your soil tested is a good idea. County extension service experts are a great resource to help determine what type of soil treatments may be necessary.Quick Tips for SodLaying sod is best done in the spring or fall when temperatures are moderate. Laying sod should be avoided in the heat of mid-summer or late in the season. New sod must have a period to establish roots before winter. Sodding no later than one month before the first frost is a good rule of thumb."The key to success with sod is establishing it properly," says Cline. Sod rolls come with such a small portion of the roots attached, usually only about ½ inch of the soil layer. If the root system doesn't establish well, the quality of the turf will gradually deteriorate over a period of a few years.Once the roots have taken hold and you can't pick up the sod layer, you should aerate your lawn. Dr. Cline recommends renting an aerator yourself or contacting a lawn care professional for this service.Quick Tips for SeedAccording to Dr. Cline, the best time to seed is late summer or early fall. "You'll have less competition from annual weeds since most don't germinate after mid summer and growing conditions are perfect for seedling establishment."Once you have prepared your seed bed, choose a seed mix that is right for your specific conditions. Your local nursery or county extension service are great resources for information on soil conditions and new turf establishment from either sod or seed.For more in-depth information on creating or renewing your lawn, see the "Building a lawn" section at www.yardcare.com. Yardcare.com is a combined effort of The Toro Company and select experts in fields of lawn care, gardening and landscape design.