Turf is an ideal way to solve soil problems, improve drainage, and help with grading the property. There are types of turf, tall fescue blends, that can withstand drought and direct sunlight. Fine fescue turf is perfect for shaded areas. Regardless of the type of turf selected, all types of turf are highly perishable until they are fully established after installation.
Water, Water, Water
Watering is crucial Turf Care in McLean VA immediately following installation. Depending on the temperature, newly placed turf can become damaged in a matter of hours if not properly watered. Sod that is guaranteed by the farm from which it was harvested will not be replaced for free if the damage was due to neglect. Plan ahead and be prepared to water new sod every day for at least a week and most days for the next week or two after that.
There is a simple way to determine when the sod is watered enough each day in that first week. After water for several minutes, roll back the sod and look at the ground. There will be spots where the water has gone through the sod. When there are more wet spots than dry ones, watering is at the halfway mark. When the entire area is fully saturated, watering is finished for that day.
Keep Track of Time
Note how long it took for the ground to be completely wet. Use that time frame as a guide for watering the rest of that first week. It is extremely difficult to over water new turf, so do not be concerned. During the second week, it is okay to skip a day or two, just not consecutive days.
Tall fescue should be established in two weeks, while fine fescue will take about three weeks. The fine version does require more maintenance than tall blends. To ensure top quality sod, seek out experienced farms, such as Premier Turf Farms, that provide state-certified sod. The sod has been inspected by a third party. Criteria include color, texture, weed containment, and thickness.
Other Resources
Complete details for Turf Care in McLean VA can be found on websites such as Turfgrass Producers International, the Lawn Institute, and the VA Tech Extension service. Links to these websites are available on the company site.
