Archive for the ‘Lawn Maintenance’ Category

5 Common Lawn Care Mistakes Every Homeowner Makes

Thursday, March 7th, 2024

Lawn care isn’t as simple as it might seem. Many homeowners learn this fast.

Even if you attempt to stay on top of lawn maintenance, it’s possible your lawn doesn’t look the way you envisioned it. Perhaps this is happening because you’re making one of the following all-too-common (but equally understandable) lawn care errors:

Mowing Your Grass Too Low

Many homeowners assume it’s best to use the mower setting that will cut their grass the shortest. They may believe doing so will serve two purposes: ensuring their lawn looks neat and orderly while also increasing the length of time they can wait before mowing again.

However, mowing your grass too short can prevent it from absorbing nutrients in sunlight and air. The grass will simply have too little surface area. In addition, mowing too low can damage the roots, leaving them more vulnerable to harm.

For most home lawns, at best mowing height is between 1 to 3 inches.  The shorter you maintain your lawn, the more frequently you will need to mow it.  If you want it less than an inch, you will need to mow it twice per week, which can be a lot of work.  Mowing between 1 to 3 inches will be the optimum for sunlight, water, and nutrient use.

Not Sharpening Your Mower Blades

Don’t assume your mower’s blades are sharp enough to cut your grass effectively! Every season, inspect your mower’s blades to determine whether they’ve grown dull after repeated use.

A common sign of dull blades is grass that appears frayed or shredded. If your grass doesn’t look cleanly cut after a mowing session, visit your local hardware store to ask if they can sharpen your mower blades. If you’d prefer to save money, they may also provide the tools for you to sharpen the blades yourself.

Not Adjusting Lawn Care With the Seasons

The right approach to lawn care during one season may not be ideal during another. Naturally, you may know the grass needs more water during certain times of year than others. In addition, it can grow more rapidly during some seasons, which may impact your mowing schedule.

Depending on what type of grass you grow and if you overseed, as winter turns to spring, you might find your current grass can no longer thrive in the warmer weather. You might thus need to transition your lawn to a different type of grass as the seasons change. A lawn care professional can explain the nuances of this process in greater detail.

Making Common Watering Mistakes

More water isn’t always better for your grass. Overwatering can carry nutrients away from the grass, resulting in the same essential consequences as underwatering.

The average lawn needs about 1.5 inches of water per week during the summer, but only a half inch per week during the winter. A lawn care expert can explain how much water your specific lawn may need based on the type of grass you have.

However, providing your lawn with the right amount of water doesn’t always mean you’re watering it correctly. The water needs time to reach the roots. Water long enough to penetrate the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Choosing the Wrong Type of Grass

An earlier point highlighted the importance of transitioning to a new type of grass as the seasons change. Some homeowners don’t realize they may be using the wrong type of grass for the time of year they’re in.

For example, a sod variety like Midiron may be best for the warmer  months of the year in a climate like Arizona’s. During the winter , you may want to consider overseeding with perennial ryegrass for a dark green color.  One of the new trends for saving water in the winter is to paint your lawn with one of the newly developed pigments that will give your lawn a “real grass” color, without having to mow or water as much.

Speak With a Professional for More Lawn Care Information

The right sod for your lawn, the right schedule for watering, and various other lawn care details can depend on such factors as where you live, what type of visual effect you wish to achieve, and more.

Don’t worry if you make any of these lawn care errors. Homeowners often don’t realize that lawn care is both an art and a science. Fortunately, by coordinating with professionals, you can learn to keep your lawn looking its best for years to come.

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional: The Pros and Cons of Outsourcing Your Lawn Care

Wednesday, March 6th, 2024

If you’re a homeowner, staying on top of lawn care lets you feel proud of your home. If you own a business, an attractive lawn can help you make the right impression on potential customers. According to TK Business Magazine, research shows 95% of customers account for a business’s curb appeal when deciding whether to shop there.

Lawn care is important. However, you may not know whether it’s a task you need to handle yourself. Should you outsource your lawn care to professionals instead?

There’s no one answer to this question. You’ll be better able to determine the right option for you when you consider the pros and cons of outsourcing lawn maintenance.

Advantages of Outsourcing Your Lawn Care

The reasons you might consider hiring professionals to maintain your lawn are numerous. Potential benefits of outsourcing lawn care include:

  • Saving time: You might simply be too busy to care for your own lawn. Maintaining a commercial property’s lawn may be particularly time-consuming. Hiring professionals to handle lawn care gives you more freedom to focus on other tasks.
  • Avoiding unnecessary expenses: In some instances, spending money is one of the drawbacks of outsourcing your lawn care. However, it’s also important to consider that proper lawn care may require the use of various tools and equipment. Purchasing, storing, and maintaining that equipment yourself isn’t necessary when you hire professionals.
  • Achieving ideal results: Lawn care professionals may be more likely to achieve ideal results than you are. Someone who maintains lawns for a living knows techniques to ensure your lawn looks its best.

Also consider that you might have minimal experience with lawn care. Hiring professionals may be easier than learning everything you need to know about lawn maintenance.

Disadvantages of Outsourcing Your Lawn Care

Hiring professionals to maintain your lawn is beneficial in many ways. That said, you might have reasons not to outsource your lawn care. They could include:

  • Saving money: As mentioned earlier, outsourcing lawn care may be more cost-effective in the long run. You’ll have to purchase equipment to maintain a lawn on your own. Lawn care can also involve various hidden costs, like costs for specialty products you didn’t know you would need. However, in the short term at least, handling your own lawn care may be more affordable than hiring someone else to.
  • Lack of direct involvement: Some property owners feel the need to directly involve themselves in as many property maintenance tasks as they can. They may feel they can take greater pride in a property when they know they’ve helped to maintain it. If you’re such a person, outsourcing your lawn care might feel unfulfilling.

The extent to which you do or don’t benefit from outsourcing lawn care may also depend on what type of property you own. The larger the property, the more you may consider hiring lawn care professionals.

Understand What Lawn Care Involves

When deciding whether to outsource your lawn care or handle it yourself, it’s important to know what thorough lawn upkeep consists of. Tasks and duties lawn care may involve include:

Consider this when making a decision. Most importantly, don’t stress too much! Lawn care is an ongoing process. If you make the “wrong” decision one time, you can always correct your mistake by making the other decision the next time your lawn requires maintenance.

Contact Arizona Sod Producers and Suppliers

Proper lawn maintenance doesn’t always guarantee an attractive lawn. You also need the right sod for your lawn to look its best.

That’s exactly what we at Evergreen Turf offer. Our Arizona sod producers can offer the perfect option for your property. Contact us online today or call us at (480) 456-1199 to learn more.

Organic Lawn Care: How to Maintain Your Lawn Naturally

Wednesday, November 29th, 2023

Did you know that it is possible to provide your lawn with what it needs to thrive and be healthy without the use of pesticides, insecticides, and other chemicals?

Organic lawn care is sustainable and green. Literally. It involves the use of alternative solutions for your lawn that are natural and environmentally friendly, yielding luscious green grass. What’s more, it creates a safe space for your entire family (including your pets) to get full enjoyment of your home’s outdoor areas.

Let’s talk about what it takes to make the switch to a healthy, pesticide-free lawn.

Nutrients: The Key to a Green Lawn

A good first step in implementing organic lawn care is to leave the grass clippings behind when you mow. Although it may not be the most aesthetically pleasing lawn care tip, your grass will thank you. These clippings contain nutrients that can be reabsorbed by your lawn if given the opportunity, helping it to blossom.

Without some extra protection from a natural fertilizer, rough periods of heat and stress can lead to its demise, regardless of how many nutritious clippings are left behind.

Take the proactive step to add fertilizer to your lawn that contains ingredients such as:

  • Composted turkey and chicken litter
  • Seaweed
  • Kelp
  • Fish emulsion
  • Rock phosphate
  • Blood meal
  • Cottonseed meal
  • Azomite
  • Ironite

Each has its own contribution and complements one another on the way to creating a lawn that is healthy with a rich green color. For example, the composted litter will increase microbial activity within the soil and help it break down the thatch that’s been left behind. This will allow the nutrients to be absorbed faster.

Azomite and ironite provide micronutrients that give the lawn a burst of color.

Fish emulsion and kelp enhance nitrogen uptake and reduce the impacts of stress. And, blood meal adds slow-release nitrogen whereas cottonseed meal and rock phosphate add phosphorus without harming the environment.

You can seek out a store-bought organic fertilizer option that contains some or all of these things, or create your own so that you know exactly what you are putting on your lawn. Either way, using the right natural fertilizer as part of your organic lawn care can give you fantastic results.

Controlling Weeds Naturally

Unfortunately, as your grass grows, so do weeds. It is best to address these right away before they get out of control and invade the entire yard or threaten any plants. After all, they may be stealing the nutrients from your lawn!

To stick with a natural, organic lawn care routine, you can dismiss weeds by spraying them with vinegar or a combination of vinegar and dish soap. Of course, pulling them is also an effective option, as long as you are careful to pull the root along with it so that they don’t continue to grow.

Getting Rid Bugs and Other Pests Without Insecticide

Bugs and insects love to nestle in your lawn and call it home. And, if allowed, they will continue to grow and expand in population until they are taking up large areas (if not all) of your grass. While you may not want to harm them, you don’t have to give them a free place to stay — especially since they can cause damage to your lawn.

There are natural, eco-friendly steps you can take to deter bugs and other pests from sticking around. For instance, spraying your yard with a batch of water and essential oils can cause the bugs to move out. A few oils to consider for organic lawn care include:

  • Rosemary
  • Cedarwood oil
  • Lemongrass oil
  • Lavender
  • Peppermint
  • Spearmint
  • Orange oils

Remember, caring for your lawn naturally is going to require patience. You may have to try a few different oils or a combination to find the right fit for your lawn.

Watering Regularly

Routine lawn care requires water. Yet, organic lawn care means seeking ways to maintain the lawn with as little waste as possible. And this means not using water when you don’t have to.

Monitoring the weather is a great way to know when you don’t have to water your lawn. However, if you reside in certain areas of Arizona, for example, precipitation is low, and rainy days are rare.

Make the most of your efforts by choosing to water your lawn at night. This will reduce the chance of evaporation and allow the ground to soak up most of the water. If you use an irrigation system, set your sprinklers on a timer so that you always water the lawn at the right time and the right duration.

 

Want to Learn More About Organic Lawn Care?

At Evergreen Turf, we know that good, organic lawn care starts with investing in the right sod.

Contact us online or call us today to learn more.

Mastering Lawn Care: 10 Essential Tips for Beginners in Phoenix, Arizona

Thursday, June 29th, 2023

When it comes to maintaining a beautiful and healthy lawn, proper care and attention are key. As a beginner in lawn care, it’s important to understand the essential practices that will help you achieve a lush and vibrant lawn in Phoenix, Arizona. In this article, we will share 10 DIY lawn care tips that are perfect for beginners like you. So, let’s dive in and get started on your journey to a stunning lawn!

  1. Maintain a Regular and Frequent Mowing Schedule

Regular mowing is crucial for maintaining a well-groomed lawn. Instead of cutting the grass too short, opt for a little and often approach. This helps to promote healthy growth and prevents scalping, which can damage your lawn.

  1. Adjust the Lawnmower’s Cutting Height

Adjust the cutting height on your lawnmower to a higher setting. Taller grass blades provide shade to the soil, reducing weed growth and conserving moisture. Additionally, longer grass blades are better able to withstand the intense heat of Phoenix, Arizona.

  1. Keep the Lawn Free of Debris and Clutter

Regularly remove fallen leaves, toys, furniture, and other everyday items from your lawn. These objects can block sunlight and hinder proper air circulation, leading to patchy areas and potential lawn diseases.

Related: How to Repair Dead Spots in Lawn

  1. Provide Regular Nutrient Boosts for Your Lawn

Proper nutrition is vital for a healthy lawn. Invest in a high-quality lawn fertilizer suitable for Phoenix’s climate and apply it according to the recommended schedule. This will provide your grass with essential nutrients and help it thrive.

Related: Why and When to Fertilize Your Lawn

  1. Train Pets to Avoid Using the Lawn as a Restroom

Pet waste can damage your lawn and leave unsightly brown patches. Train your pets to use a designated area and promptly clean up any waste. Regularly rinsing the area with water can also help dilute and minimize the impact of urine.

Related: Tips for Landscaping with Dogs

  1. Enhance Soil Health Through Annual Lawn Aeration

Aerating your lawn involves creating small holes in the soil to improve water, air, and nutrient penetration. This process helps alleviate soil compaction and promotes healthier root growth. Aim to aerate your lawn at least once a year, preferably during the cooler months.

Related: How to Aerate Your Lawn & Why You Should

  1. Remove Thatch and Moss with Seasonal Scarification

Scarifying is the process of raking or using a scarifying machine to remove dead grass, thatch, and moss from your lawn’s surface. This allows better airflow and prevents disease. Perform scarification once or twice a year to maintain a healthy lawn.

Related: The Best Time to Dethatch Your Lawn

  1. Enhance Your Lawn’s Density with Strategic Overseeding

Overseeding involves spreading new grass seed over existing turf to fill in bare patches and improve the overall density of your lawn. Choose a seed mix suitable for Phoenix’s climate and overseed in the fall  for the best results.

  1. Optimize Sunlight Exposure for a Thriving Lawn

Ensure that your lawn receives the maximum amount of sunlight possible. Trim back overhanging branches and prune nearby shrubs to allow ample sunlight to reach your grass. Sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis and helps your lawn grow strong and healthy.

  1. Persevere Through Unexpected Challenges from Mother Nature

In Phoenix, Arizona, weather conditions can be challenging for lawn care. From scorching heat to occasional droughts, it’s important to adapt and persevere. If your lawn faces setbacks due to weather or other factors, seek advice, make adjustments, and stay committed to your lawn care routine.

Achieving a beautiful lawn in Phoenix, Arizona is within your reach! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, Evergreen Turf is here to support your lawn care journey. Browse our website to explore our high-quality sod options and take the first step toward a lush and vibrant lawn. Invest in your lawn’s future with Evergreen Turf today.

Remember, with the right knowledge and care, your lawn can become the envy of the neighborhood. Implement these 10 DIY lawn care tips, stay consistent, and watch your lawn flourish under the Arizona sun.

Tips for Spring Lawn Care in Phoenix, Arizona

Thursday, April 20th, 2023

Springtime in Phoenix, Arizona, is an excellent time to give your lawn the care it needs to thrive throughout the year. With proper lawn care, you can ensure that your lawn is healthy, lush, and vibrant. Here are some tips for spring lawn care in Phoenix to help you achieve a beautiful lawn.

Begin with a soil test

Before you start any lawn care activities, getting a soil test is essential. A soil test will tell you your soil’s pH level and the nutrients it lacks. In Phoenix, Arizona, the soil is typically alkaline, with a pH range of 7.0 to 8.5. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the soil’s pH is between 6.0 and 7.5. You can purchase a soil test kit at your local garden center or have your soil tested professionally. A soil test will help you determine what fertilizers to use and how much water your lawn needs.

Aerate your lawn

Phoenix, Arizona, has a desert climate, which means the soil is often compacted. A compacted soil makes it difficult for water and nutrients to reach the roots of your grass. To fix this problem, you should aerate your lawn. Aerating involves removing small plugs of soil from your lawn, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the roots more easily. You can rent an aerator or hire a professional to do it for you.

Dethatch your lawn

Thatch is a layer of dead grass and debris that accumulates on the surface of your lawn. Too much thatch can prevent water and nutrients from reaching the roots of your grass. You can remove thatch from your lawn by using a dethatching rake or a power dethatcher. A power dethatcher will do the job much faster than a rake, but it can be expensive to rent or buy.

Fertilize your lawn

Fertilizing your lawn is crucial to its health and growth. In Phoenix, Arizona, it’s best to use a slow-release fertilizer that will provide your grass with a steady supply of nutrients throughout the growing season. Choose a fertilizer with low nitrogen and high potassium content, as this will help your grass tolerate Phoenix’s hot, dry climate. You should apply fertilizer to your lawn in early spring when your grass begins to green up. Be sure to follow the fertilizer package instructions and not over-fertilize your lawn.

Water your lawn deeply

Phoenix is known for its hot and dry climate, so watering your lawn is crucial. You should water your lawn deeply and infrequently, allowing the water to penetrate the soil deeply. Watering your lawn too frequently can lead to shallow root growth, making your grass more susceptible to drought and disease. It’s best to water your lawn in the early morning or late evening when the temperature is cooler, and there’s less evaporation.

Mow your lawn regularly

Mowing your lawn regularly is essential to keep it healthy and looking good. When you mow your lawn, you should never cut off more than one-third of the grass blade. Cutting too much grass at once can weaken your grass and make it more susceptible to disease. You should also keep your mower blades sharp to ensure a clean cut.

Control weeds

Weeds are a common problem in Phoenix, Arizona, but you can control them by using a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring. A pre-emergent herbicide will prevent weeds from germinating and taking root in your lawn. If you already have weeds in your lawn, you can use a post-emergent herbicide to kill them. Be sure to follow the instructions on the herbicide package, and avoid using too much, as it can harm your grass.

Consider overseeding

Overseeding is the process of planting grass seed over your existing lawn. It’s a great way to fill in your lawn’s thin or patchy areas and promote healthy growth. In Phoenix, Arizona, it’s best to overseed your lawn in the fall, but you can also do it in the spring. Be sure to choose a grass seed that’s well-suited for Phoenix’s hot and dry climate.

Hire a professional

If you don’t have the time or expertise to care for your lawn, consider hiring a professional. A lawn care professional can help you with everything from fertilizing and watering to mowing and aerating your lawn. They can also advise you on the best lawn care practices for your specific needs.

Take care of your equipment

Finally, it’s essential to take care of your lawn care equipment. Sharpen your mower blades regularly to ensure a clean cut, and clean your equipment after each use to prevent rust and corrosion. Also, be sure to store your equipment in a cool, dry place during the off-season.

In conclusion, you can have a beautiful and healthy lawn in Phoenix, Arizona with proper care and attention. Following these tips lets you keep your lawn looking its best throughout the year. Remember to start with a soil test, aerate and dethatch your lawn, fertilize and water it properly, mow it regularly, control weeds, consider overseeding, hire a professional if needed, and take care of your equipment. With these steps, you’ll have a lawn that’s the envy of your neighborhood.

Evergreen Turf offers a wide selection of sod grass varieties perfectly suited for Arizona’s climate. Whether you wish to sod a small play area for the family or an entire golf course, Evergreen Turf can help you make it happen. Contact us today.

Is It Time to Renovate Your Lawn?

Thursday, February 9th, 2023

A well-maintained lawn can level up your home’s exterior. Unfortunately, lawns don’t stay vibrant and lush all on their own. Without consistent TLC, your lawn may start to look patchy, yellow, or dry.

If your lawn is lacking its luster, you may be wondering what you can do about it. Depending on the degree of your lawn’s deterioration, a full-blown lawn renovation may be in order.

So, how can you tell if it’s time to renovate your lawn? Below, we’ll break down the major causes of turf deterioration and explain when you should consider a lawn renovation.

7 Major Causes of Turf Deterioration

Before you renovate your lawn, it’s a good idea to find out why it looks unhealthy in the first place. This way, you can solve the problem and keep it from happening again, preventing the need for repeated renovations.

Lawns may start to deteriorate for the following reasons:

  1. Poor lawn management – Lawns need to be mowed, fertilized and irrigated regularly to stay green and healthy. If your lawn care has fallen to the wayside, that may be the cause of its decline.

    On the flip side, over-watering or excess fertilization can also cause issues. Too much water can cause your turf’s roots to rot, while excess fertilizer can lead to unsightly “fertilizer burn” and root damage.

  2. Excessive thatchThatch is a tightly-packed layer of decomposed stems, leaves, and roots that can build up between your grass and its soil. Some amount of thatch is unavoidable.

    However, excessive thatch can create a claustrophobic environment for your turf’s roots. In turn, they may not get enough water, air, or fertilizer, even if you’re diligently providing them during your lawn maintenance routine.

  3. Weeds, insects, and diseases – Over time, your turf may get attacked by pesky weeds, insects, and diseases. Weeds harm turf by sucking up its nutrients. Meanwhile, pests attack turf by nibbling at its blades and roots.
  4. Poor soil quality – The quality of your soil can make or break your lawn’s appearance. Poor soil may be acidic, infertile, compacted, or lacking in essential microorganisms. You can have your soil tested at a local soil testing lab to evaluate its health.
  5. Inadequate sunlight – Not all types of turfs thrive in shaded locations. If your lawn lacks direct sunlight, you may need to remove or prune the surrounding trees and shrubs to let more rays shine through.
  6. Improper species selection – Not all turfgrass species are adapted to every climate. If your turf still looks rough after adhering to meticulous maintenance practices, it may simply be ill-suited for your location.
  7. Dog urine – If your furry friend frequently pees on your lawn, it can cause unsightly spots. Some species of turf are more resistant to dog urine than others.

Getting to the root of your lawn’s issue can be tricky. Fortunately, a lawn care specialist can diagnose the issue and suggest the best path forward.

When to Renovate Your Lawn

Sometimes, you can repair small portions of your lawn by re-seeding it or optimizing your lawn care regime. Most high quality warm season lawns are hybrids and cannot be grown from seed.  These will need to be plugged or sodded. However, if more than 25% of your lawn is deteriorating, it’s probably time to renovate.

Lawn Renovation Considerations

One of the most important things to consider before you renovate your lawn is the time of year. Lawn renovations should be done when the lawn can recover the quickest. If you live in Arizona, it’s best to do your work in late spring or early summer.  This gives your lawn the rest of the summer to recover and get fully healthy before winter.

Sprinkler System Check-up:  The number one cause of lawn problems in Arizona is poor irrigation coverage.  Check your system for proper head coverage, good pressure, and leaks.  A good sprinkler system will also save water!

Aeration:  Aeration is a mechanical practice that pull small cores from your soil.  This helps alleviate compaction, and will also help mitigate thatch build up.  Compaction tends to be a problem in high traffic areas wear dogs and kids play, or where people walk or stand frequently in the lawn.

De-thatching:  Thatch is an accumulation of old leaves and stems from your lawn.  Too much thatch will cause the lawn to repel water, or slow your water from penetrating the soil.  Excess thatch can also be a host to many insects.  Excess thatch will also make your lawn too soft and cause your lawnmower to “scalp” your lawn when you mow. You can rent a machine to dethach, or even vigorously rake an area to remove the thatch.

Next, you should determine if any nearby vegetation will compete with your fresh turf for space and soil nutrients. If you suspect it may, you might want to pull some weeds or apply herbicides.

Lastly, you should make sure that you plant a type of turf that’s properly adapted to your climate, especially if your old turf wasn’t. Not sure which type of turf is right for you? Try Evergreen Turf’s lawn selector guide to help you.

Evergreen Turf: Renovate Your Lawn With Premier Arizona Sod

If you’re longing for greener grass, Evergreen Turf can make it happen. We’re a premier producer of Arizona sod. Our sod grass has been used to refresh residential yards, elite golf courses, and all kinds of green spaces in between.

All of our sod grass varieties grow beautifully in Arizona, so you can rest assured you’re getting a grass type that’s right for your climate.

Are you ready to refresh your lawn? Reach out to Evergreen Turf today.

Leave It To The Pros: Why You Should Have Your Sod Professionally Installed

Wednesday, June 29th, 2022

If you’re searching online for “sod installation near me,” it’s obvious you’re considering upgrading your lawn. This is the best choice for you if you want to have a quick, easy and affordable lawn without the hassle of learning everything from scratch. We all know how busy a person’s life can be and you might not always have the time and energy to take care of your own lawn. If you’re still not sold on hiring professionals for the job, here’s why you should leave your sod installation to the professionals.

Why You Should Let the Pros Install Your Sod:

  • Weekends are meant for play and fun, not worrying about what to do about your lawn. Evergreen Turf will do the worrying for you and will be there to install the same day your sod is delivered
  • Evergreen Turf is the best professional sod company in Arizona. We have a team of highly skilled craftsmen with years of experience in sod installations. You can rest easy knowing that your lawn will be taken care of by people who know what they are doing and produce the best lawn you and your family deserve.
  • An added difficulty of installing a lawn yourself is when there are other elements on your property such as sprinkler heads, decorations, and walkways. Doing it yourself can be tiring without getting the result you want. Those other elements in your yard need expert precision and skill to cut around to avoid damage to the sod as well as minimize the scrap
  • Installing sod is not as simple as just putting on the layer of sod and waiting. It takes skilled craftsmen to make sure that the sod is properly installed with no patches or spots that are less attractive. Evergreen Turf crews will roll the sod and ensure that there is good soil contact for the sod to take hold as well as apply the starter fertilizer to increase the chances of your sod successfully rooting quickly.
  • With professionals, you get what you pay for. You won’t have to worry about Evergreen Turf’s crew, they do this every day. You can sit back and enjoy. Please note, we do not perform work outside the terms of the contract which includes prep work, sprinkler work or rototilling.

Types of Sod You Can Buy at Evergreen Turf:

Midiron

This is the grass of choice in Arizona. It is an attractive and low-maintenance lawn that is perfect for busy people who still want to have a beautiful lawn they can enjoy without too much hassle. The grass itself has a medium-coarse leaf texture with a refreshing blue-green color. It is an excellent plant that transitions well from winter over-seeding and recovers quickly from people stepping on it. It can be maintained with a reel mower or a sharp rotary mower. It has a mowing height of 3/4″ to 1 1/2″.

Keep in mind that Midiron has low shade tolerance, which means it is perfect for a lawn that is under the sun. Also, it is a much sturdier grass than others with moderate salinity tolerance and will always be suitable for Arizona weather with its good drought tolerance.

Tifway 419

  • Tifway 419 is the lawn of choice for professional sports fields and golf courses. It is preferred to other Bermuda grass because of its ability to recover from damage from constant and heavy use. This variety has extraordinary durability and a beautiful dark green color and medium-fine texture. This grass is an excellent choice for lawns that will be seeing constant use. This variety can be cut using a sharp rotary motor or a reel motor for a manicured look.

It is the perfect lawn if it is constantly exposed to sunlight but will have difficulty if placed in a mostly shaded area. It is also moderately tolerant to salinity and will be able to grow even if the area it is placed in has salt and is an excellent variant for hot regions. It has a mowing height of 1/2” to 1 1/2″.

Tifgreen328

  • This variety of grass has a bright green color and a very fine texture. Initially developed for use in golf courses, it is the perfect choice if you want a manicured appearance for your lawn. Its beauty is the primary reason why it is used in expensive golf courses and it is the perfect choice if you want the same quality lawn for your home. It can be mowed with a sharp rotary mower but you can find the best results when you use a reel mower.

This variety also has a fair damage recovery rating that is still hardy compared to other grasses with poor shade tolerance, which is perfect for a lawn that gets lots of sunlight. It has a moderate salinity tolerance which means it’s not as susceptible to moderate concentrations of salt in the soil. It has a fair drought tolerance which means that it needs a little bit more water than the varieties we have discussed so far.

TifGrand

  • TifGrand Bermuda is a product of scientific development and boasts a 60% resistance to shade and requires only about 4-5 hours of direct sunlight. Although it requires a more difficult maintenance routine in full sun conditions, TifGrand is an excellent variety for a lawn, especially because it has a fine texture and a beautiful dark green color. It can be mowed using a reel or a shaft rotary mower at the height of 1/2” to 1 ½” height.

This variety has a fair damage recovery rating and a moderate salinity tolerance. It is also rated fair for drought tolerance. It is a less sturdy variety overall but it is tolerant to shade which means you don’t have to worry too much about this variety dying if they don’t get the right amount of sunlight which is important if you plan to have a lot of shade in your lawn.

Palmetto St. Augustine

  • This variety is the best performer in shady conditions and is highly recommended by the Evergreen Turf crew. This variety is a semi-dwarf variety of St. Augustine grass and thrives in both sunlight, shade, and heat. It has a coarse texture with soft leaves that makes it comfortable to lie on if you just want to relax and on the grass.

It also has a bright green color, perfect for that pleasantly eye-catching shade of green people look for on a lawn. However, it requires a little bit more care since it should not be overseeded during the winter. If you want to mow this grass, it is recommended that you use a Reel or sharp rotary mower at a height of 1 1/2″ to 3” for best results.

TifTuf

  • TifTuf is the best hybrid bermudagrass you will ever encounter regarding drought tolerance. This means that it can go longer without being watered. It is developed by the University of Georgia Research Program and is among the best strains they were able to produce. It has fine texture with a dark green color and can survive with 30% less water than the best hybrid Bermuda grass currently in the market today. It has a similar look to Tifway but is a sturdier variety and improved color during the winter. It also has the added benefit of being able to green up quicker when spring comes than other strains of grass.

For best results, you should mow this grass with a reel mower or a sharp rotary mower at a height of 1/2″ to 1 1/2″. It has a good salinity tolerance and fair shade tolerance with high damage recovery.

No need to search any further for sod installation near you. Contact Evergreen Turf today and get back to enjoying your weekend while we take care of all the hard work. The lawn of your dreams is just one call away!

Guide to New Sod: 3 Mistakes to Avoid and 3 Tips for Success

Wednesday, May 4th, 2022

If you are a homeowner about to install new sod, there are several things that you should know that many homeowners wished they knew when they started. These tips will help you save a lot of time and money and at the same time keep your sod looking amazing just like those maintained by professionals. Keeping sod does not need to be difficult or expensive as long as you follow these simple and easy-to-do tips.

How much should I water new sod?

The riskiest time for sod is when it is just newly installed. This is particularly true in times and places where high temperatures are common such as those we experience here in Arizona. Summer days are among the most dangerous as they could lead to several patches of sod drying out and destroying the overall beauty of your sod.

The best time to water established lawns is either in the morning or the evening.  This is because if you water your lawn in the middle of the day when it’s very warm, the water will evaporate quickly.

For new sod that has been recently installed, we recommend watering 4-8 times a day for about 5-10 minutes each. You just need to do this for the first two weeks following installation and then you can cut down to watering once a day for about 15-45 minutes each. When the sod is properly established you can water your lawn 2-3 times a week for 10-25 minutes each time.

Related: Lawn Care – Sod Irrigation

This schedule changes during colder times such as winter (for overseeded sod) where you should water twice a day for 10-15 minutes for the first two weeks after installation and only once a day after that for 15-20 minutes each. For well-established lawns during the colder times, you should keep an eye on the weather since it will dictate the amount and frequency of watering.

The general rule of thumb here is that when you are experiencing hotter weather, you should water more frequently but when you are experiencing colder weather, you can water your sod less frequently.

You can make this easier for you by hiring professionals to take care of all the needs of your sod. You might have to dole out some cash but this way you will ensure that you remove the guesswork of taking care of your lawn and the risk of having patches of your lawn die or dry out.

When Should I Fertilize?

To get the best results for a healthy lawn, fertilizing should be done every 30 days. Just like humans, lawns need good nutrition to keep them free from weeds and disease. This will help them to thrive and look healthy. The best Nitrogen-Phosphate-Potassium (N-P-K) ratio of fertilizer we recommend is a 21-7-14 or 16-8-4.

Keeping a good fertilizing schedule is important because fertilizers nourish your lawn. Look at fertilizers as food for plants and when you give them an adequate amount of food, they will grow and take root properly, which will protect your lawn from extreme weather or temperatures as well as other stressors that the lawn might encounter. However, you should keep in mind that you might have to reassess your fertilizing schedule depending on the type of sod you are using since different varieties of sod have different needs. You should also consider the weather and season when planning your fertilizing schedule.

During springtime, you should consider having a fertilizing schedule for early spring and late spring. During early spring, plants are generally waking up from their hibernation during the winter. This means that they have expended much of their stored nutrients during this time and require more care. On the other hand, during late spring, your lawn needs all the help it can get to prepare for the coming stresses of summer and fall.

During the summer, in hotter areas like Arizona, your lawn is experiencing heavier stress because of the heat and bugs. Fertilizing during this time will help make sure that your lawn keeps healthy going into the fall.

Related: Lawn Care – Sod Nutrition

When fall comes, so will the opportunity to entertain guests and other outdoor entertainment. This is also the season when your lawn begins to prepare for another growth period. This means that your sod needs more nutrients to help keep it healthy and strong. However, this is also the best time for your sod to thrive since nature is giving you a hand. You will be experiencing more rainfall and cooler times during this time which will make taking care of your lawn easier.

If you want more information about when to fertilize your lawn, you can go to Evergreenturf.com and get expert advice on the best fertilizing schedule for your lawn.

How Long Does It Take New Sod to Root?

This is a difficult question to answer simply. Sod taking root generally has two stages: Formation of shallow roots and formation of deep roots. To get the best results, you should give sod the right care during these periods to ensure that your lawn thrives in the long term. Strong roots mean that sod becomes more resilient against any stressors that it might encounter.

Forming shallow roots can begin as early as two weeks. To help this process along, you should water your new lawn right after the sod is installed. After the first week of laying the sod, it is recommended that you water your sod daily to make the process quicker. You need to take particular care during this stage since this process is among the most sensitive times for the sod. Avoiding adding stress to your lawn during this time will help it grow and thrive in the future. You should minimize stepping on it or adding any kind of weight to allow it time to grow the roots it needs for the future.

Related: How Long Does it Take for Sod to Root

On the other hand, deep roots require that you water your sod less. This will encourage your lawn to develop deep roots. If done right, your sod will be able to develop deep roots in about 30-45 days. When this happens, it is a sign that your lawn is ready to face added pressure such as mowing and foot traffic.

Be sure to wait to mow your lawn for the first time after 48 hours or two days after watering to prevent damage to the grass blades. Also, set your mower to 3 inches. This is the optimum height for your lawn to keep healthy during this sensitive time.

To further encourage faster rooting, you can use a lawn roller right after the sod is installed. Rolling the sod carefully will allow the new sod and the topsoil to adhere faster and will also remove air pockets that will slow the growth rate of roots. You can also start fertilizing your lawn after six weeks of installation.

To help this process along, you should also prepare the soil where the sod will be placed. Most grass species thrive on acidic, well-drained soil. You can add Sulfur, Compost, and Lime to your soil before the installation of sod to prepare it. This will increase the chances of a fully healthy and great-looking lawn that will begin taking root in about two weeks.

If you need more information about preparing your soil, you can go to Evergreenturf.com and receive advice from experts in this industry. If you want to remove the guesswork when installing the best high-quality sod, we also offer installation for a reasonable price!

Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t Overwater before Installing New Sod

We know that getting new sod can be an exciting prospect and you want to do everything you can to make sure that the installation goes smoothly. You might be tempted to overwater your lawn thinking that it will help make the installation and growth go faster but this is more dangerous and might negatively affect a successful installation. Muddy grounds make working on it more difficult and can lead to poor sod growth. What you want here is to keep the lawn just moist but not soaked. Please see above for watering schedules that provide the moisture your sod needs and help you avoid overwatering.

Don’t Mow Too Soon

Mowing can cause severe damage to a newly installed sod. Do not mow your new sod lawn until about two weeks after installation. However, keep in mind that you must remove only 1/3 of the leaf blade to prevent scalping or damaging the new lawn. This means that you might have to mow your lawn more frequently or about every 3 days to reach the growing height that you want but we promise you it will be worth it.

Mowing a lawn depends on how quickly your sod is growing. There are some varieties and conditions that grow faster like Tiffgreen sod lawn where you might have to mow every 2-3 days as compared to midiron hybrid Bermuda sol lawn which needs to be mowed once every 7-19 days. This might require you to mow more often but as long as you remember the general rule “never remove more than 1/3 of the leaf” then you should be fine.

Related: Lawn Care – Mowing Sod

If you plan on mowing less often, you should also remember that you should keep your mowing height up and the fertility of your land down. Keeping your fertility low will slow the growth of your grass and the higher mowing height allows for more leeway for the grass to grow without it becoming cumbersome and remain looking crisp even with less frequent maintenance mowing. However, the best-looking lawns are those that follow these three things mow lower, fertilize frequently, and mow frequently. If you need more information about mowing, follow this link and read more https://www.evergreenturf.com/lawn-care/mowing.php

Another thing to keep in mind is when dealing with new sod, your first mowing should start when your sod has been established for one week. You will also have to cut back on watering the sod to keep the ground firm enough and not leave any marks when you mow. Follow the general rule that you should not remove more than 1/3 of the leaf and the mower blade must be sharp when mowing for the first time on newly installed sod. Keeping your lawnmower’s blade sharp will prevent pulling and leaving yellow scalped areas on the new lawn.

You should also start thinking of the lawnmowing equipment you plan to use on your lawn as early as you can. There are generally two types of mowing equipment, and both have their pros and cons. The first type of mowing equipment is the electric or gas reel mowers. These machines have typically 7 or 10 blades and are used to mow grass up to ¾ of an inch. They tend to cost more and require more maintenance, but they give a higher quality cut as compared to the rotary push mowers and can mow as low as 1/3 of an inch. They are recommended for any type of grass

On the other hand, rotary push mowers, or more commonly, push mowers, can be used to mow lawns between 3/4 to 3 inches. They are cheaper, hardier, and require less maintenance as compared to electric or gas reel mowers but they don’t produce as good as cut. They also can’t cut below ¾ of an inch which makes for a less crisp look to your lawn. However, they are ideal for Midiron, Paspalum, St. Augustine, and Celebration Bermudagrass variants.

Be Careful with Weed Control

Herbicides are substances that kill or prevent the growth of plants in an area. You can use them to keep your lawn safe from unwanted plants and weeds and keep your lawn looking amazing. There are several kinds of herbicides you can use and one of them is called post-emergent herbicides. These substances affect weeds after they have sprouted and established themselves on your lawn. On the other hand, there are herbicides called pre-emergent herbicides that are used before you can observe any signs of weeds.

Post-emergence herbicides can control existing weed growth and help prevent future ones but can be dangerous for certain kinds of plants and sod varieties so you must use the right kind of herbicides for your use. There is also a particular way you should be using them to work properly to keep the plants you want unaffected. Be sure to look into how they are used properly.

There are different kinds of post-emergent weed killers. They generally fall under systemic and contact herbicides.  Systemics are the most effective when used on perennial or long-time weeds since it goes directly into the plant for the best results. On the other hand, contact herbicides only kill the exposed portions of the plant and are effective on annuals or smaller weeds since killing the exposed parts would likely lead to the whole plant dying.

Knowing the right kind of herbicide to use can determine whether or not your efforts kill only the weeds and not affect the plants you want to be unaffected. This requires an understanding of the substance and its careful application.

Pre-emergent herbicides are generally more effective to control weeds before they have grown, while post-emergent herbicides can be used any time after the weeds have grown. Be careful though, as a lot of post-emergent herbicides could damage the lawn if used too much or applied at the wrong time. Always read the instructions on using herbicides before applying any kind of chemical to your sod grass lawns. You can learn more here https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/weeds/post-emergent-herbicides.htm.

Conclusion

Taking care of new sod can be easy as long as you know the basics of sod care. Many people don’t take the time and effort to learn this and as a result, they find a less than ideal looking patch of land. This costs them time, money, and effort when they simply could have done a little bit of research. These simple tips and tricks to take care of your newly installed lawn will be helpful to you as you begin your taking proper and active care of your lawn.

If you would rather remove the guesswork on your lawn care and choose to ask professionals for help, contact Evergreen Turf today. We have been in the industry since 1999, and we pride ourselves in being a locally owned and operated Arizona sod farm.

What is the Difference between Grasses and Weeds

Wednesday, April 13th, 2022

Here at Evergreen Turf, we get a lot of questions from people about home lawns and gardens. One question that is asked is, “What is the difference between grasses and weeds?”

Let’s look at an example of why this question gets asked. Let’s say you have a beautiful lawn that is comprised of St. Augustine sod. But then one day you see a few spots on your lawn where weeds are coming through. The species doesn’t look like the same type as the sod you use in your lawn, but it does look like grass. Upon further inspection, you determine that it’s bermudagrass.

You see, bermudagrass is a plant that, like St. Augustine sod, is commonly grown as turfgrass, but it also can be an invasive weed in certain situations. That’s why people ask what the difference is between grasses and weeds.

Related: Weed Control in St. Augustine Grass

The Primary Difference Between Weeds and Grass

The first thing you should know is that weeds are a general term for plants that grow in unwanted areas in a lawn or garden. This means that any plant you don’t want growing in your lawn or garden is a weed. Weeds come in different shapes and sizes, and many different types of plants including flowers and invasive grass species can be considered weeds.

There are two main categories of weeds—broadleaf weeds (dicots) and grassy weeds (monocots). Broadleaf weed examples are purslane, spurge, and dandelions. Grassy weed examples are crabgrass, goosegrass, and the hard to kill nutsedges.

On the other hand, grass is simply a category of plants. Scientists refer to them as belonging to the Poaceae family of plants. You can easily distinguish grass from other plants by their tender green stems compared to other plants that have woody stems that sprout out branches and from those branches, sprout out the leaves and flowers.

According to Britannica, “With more than 10,000 species, the grass family, Poaceae, is one of the largest families of flowering plants. Its members are monocotyledons and feature leaves with parallel veins; the flowers are usually wind-pollinated. Many grasses are cultivated as ornamental plants and for lawns, and several are staple cereal crops.” Check out their list of some of the major species in this family, which include Bermuda grass, Rye and others popularly used as grass for home lawns.

If you’re looking for grass for your home lawn, check out our varieties of sod that grow well in Arizona, including Midiron, Tifway 419, Tifgreen 328, TifGrand, Palmetto St. Augustine, and TifTuf. See a description of each one and order now on our website.

So now you know that grass is generally a specific plant from the plant kingdom and weeds are a general term for plants that grow where you don’t want them to grow.

Fun Facts About Grass

As we have mentioned, there are over 10,000 named species of grass. But did you know that they are also an important part of human life, primarily as a food source? You might be surprised to know that rice, wheat, and other grains are part of this family, as is bamboo.

Grass also cools the general surroundings safely and naturally and improves the air quality around your house. You should also know that a well-kept lawn generally increases the value of a home by upwards of 10%. If you plan to get more value out of your home, you should consider installing a sod lawn.

How to Prevent & Get Rid of Unwanted Weeds in Your Lawn and Garden

Weeds are a nuisance because they disrupt the general beauty and appeal of a well-curated lawn and garden. If not dealt with and removed properly, they can embed themselves firmly and eventually cause damage to your lawn or garden as they grow.

Your first defense against weeds in your sod grass is a healthy lawn. Fertility, irrigation, and consistent mowing are necessary for a thick dense lawn. Thick dense sod will keep weeds from ever getting started in your lawn. Any time your lawn becomes thin or stressed, the sod will begin to lose density and allow room for competition. Weed seeds are opportunistic, sitting idly by until given a little room and a little sunlight to allow them to start growing.

Weeds reproduce primarily from seed. Because most weeds are very prolific seed producers, there is usually an abundance of weed seed in any lawn just waiting for the right conditions to begin growing and competing with your lawn for space. Some weeds however, such as common bermudagrass, reproduce from runners that can grow above ground or below ground. The runners start new plants at intervals, sending down roots and then shoots, potentially taking over an entire area very quickly.

Weed control can be accomplished in two ways;

  1. pre-emergently (before the seeds germinate) or
  2. post-emergently (after the weeds have sprouted and emerged from the ground).

Applications of pre-emergent herbicides must be timed before conditions are right for the weeds to begin germinating. Post-emergent herbicides can be applied anytime after the weeds have emerged, but the younger the weeds the more effective the herbicides will be. Many post-emergent herbicides can damage your lawn if applied at the wrong rate or the wrong time. Please read the directions carefully before applying any chemicals to your sod grass lawn.

For more information on how to properly care for your sod lawn, check out our lawn care section of our website.

To purchase sod in Phoenix and Tucson, check out our sod varieties and order now.

How to Get Rid of Old Grass for New Sod

Friday, December 17th, 2021

If your yard needs renewing, you can install new sod, but not before removing the old grass. Installing new sod grass is the quickest way to transform your patchy yard into a green and luxurious lawn. However, you still need careful planning, preparation, and installation when laying new sod for effective results.

If you’re ready to upgrade your lawn, this article focuses on the steps to follow when getting rid of old grass for new sod.

Steps to Follow When Removing Old Grass for New Sod

Step 1: Gather Tools Needed

You’ll need the following tools:

  • Sod
  • Carpet knife
  • Organic matter/ grass fertilizer
  • Lawn roller
  • Tape measure
  • Rototiller
  • Lawn edger
  • Spading fork
  • Soil Rake
  • Lawn sprinkler

Step 2: Prepare Your Lawn

The first step is to mark the area where you will be laying the new sod. After marking, water the area 24-48 hours before the removal process to soften the soil.

Lastly, decide which method of grass removal you will use.

Step 3: Remove the Old Grass

If your lawn is extremely small, a grape hoe will do the trick. For larger lawns, sod/turf cutters are more efficient.

When you buy or rent a sod cutter from your local hardware store, all you have to do is adjust the blade to the appropriate height to clear the existing grass.

Step 4: Till the Soil

When tilling the soil, you’ll need a rototiller. Like the sod cutter, you can buy or rent a rototiller that penetrates your lawn down to a 6-inch (15cm) depth. Tilling helps to break up compacted soil allowing easy rooting of new sod.

In addition, tilling provides an opportunity for you to insert compost into your lawn which increases the quality of your topsoil by adding nutrients.

Note: Tilling increases the chances of weed sprouting. You can avoid this by:

  • Solarization: Kills weeds by overheating them under a thick blanket of clear plastic paper. For effective results, the solarization process requires two months before starting your tilling process.
  • Herbicides: Spray herbicides on your old grass or turf for approximately four weeks before tilling.

Step 4: Adjust the Soil Height and Slope

Now that you’ve tilled your lawn, it’s time to level the soil using a lawn roller.  When leveling, ensure that the soil is 1-1.5 inches lower than the pavements to prevent flooding. It’s okay to add or reduce the soil until you achieve an even height.

Now that you’ve leveled the lawn, you’ll want to focus on the slope. The slope of your lawn is important to ensure smooth drainage. Measure your lawn slopes 2-2.5 inches descending in the first five feet from pavements and building foundations.

Step 5: Spread the Lawn Starter Fertilizer

Keep in mind that sod needs nutrients and minerals to grow. Add essential nutrients by using a lawn starter fertilizer on your tilled and leveled soil before installing your sod.

Lawn starter fertilizers are rich in phosphorus nutrients which promote quick growth and rooting of the grassroots.

Note: Do not use fertilizers designed for mature grass because they lack phosphorus nutrients.

Step 6: Order Your New Sod

Before ordering your sod, measure the square footage of your lawn using a tape measure and calculate the amount of turf needed. Please see our page on how to measure for more information: https://www.evergreenturf.com/lawn-selector/how-to-measure.php

It’s recommended that you increase your sod order by 5-10% to account for trimmed or gap-free edges. So for example if you need 1500 square feet, your order should be between 1575 and 1650 square feet.

Step 7: Install Your New Sod

If you have a large lawn, you may want to pay for professional install, or at the very least, seek extra help from your family or friends. When installing your sod, arrange the square yard pieces in a brick-like pattern. The brick-laying pattern enables the seams to offset and establish perfectly and prevents the sod from dislocating or slipping.

As you install your sod, use a sod knife to shape the curves and edges of your yard to ensure a gap-free lawn. Use your lawn roller to press your sod in place for the finishing step and ensure complete sod-to-soil contact.

Step 8: Water Your Sod

After successful installation, water your sod for 10 minutes with a sprinkler. Repeat this step two times a day for two weeks before gradually reducing to once per day then two times a week.

Note: If you deprive your new sod of water, you will likely experience your grass drying out.

In Conclusion

When looking for the best way to revive your yard’s landscape, sod is the best option. Install your sod the right way and get a dense, green, and strongly rooted lawn that is appealing and weed-free.

Now that you understand how to get rid of old grass for newly sodded grass, it’s transformation time!