On Thu, 05 Feb 2004 03:10:50 GMT, SJE
wrote:

I have a new house that has no landscaping in the back. I want to sod
St Augustine, but due to the size (probably 4000 sq ft or so) the cost
concerns me. Would it be okay to checker squares (the full
rectangular piece that comes in the pallets, not plug size) of sod? I
was thinking of just laying it down so the corners meet, maybe some
overlap, so I would need 40-50% less sod. Would this work? I don't
mind if it takes some time to establish, I just don't want the sod to
die and have to start over again. Would there be problems with the
grass not being level?

The ground is soft clay/sand, properly graded.


You will probably regret doing this later on. A more economical way
is to order a load of topsoil and compost, cover the area as evenly as
possible, heavily seed, top with straw and keep it moist for 3-4
weeks. Fall is usually the best time of year to do this due to the
intense summer heat can kill the tender seedlings.