Floratam Sod: The Ultimate Guide to Growing and Maintaining Your Lawn

Floratam Sod is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable and attractive lawn option. This type of sod is commonly used in Florida due to its ability to tolerate heat and drought conditions. In this guide, we will explore the benefits of Floratam sod and provide tips on how to grow and maintain your lawn.

1. What is Floratam Sod?

   Floratam Sod is a variety of St. Augustine grass that was developed by the University of Florida in the early 1970s. It is a hybrid grass that is a cross between St. Augustine and a grass variety known as Bitter Blue.

2. Benefits of Floratam Sod

   Floratam Sod has a number of benefits, including:

• Drought tolerant
• Heat tolerant
• Resistant to chinch bugs
• Attractive, lush appearance
• Low maintenance

3. Ideal Growing Conditions

   Floratam Sod requires specific growing conditions in order to thrive. Some key considerations include:

• Full sun exposure
• Well-drained soil
• Regular watering
• Proper fertilization
• Soil pH between 5.0 and 8.5

4. Preparing Your Lawn

   Before planting Floratam Sod, it is important to properly prepare your lawn. This can involve several steps, including:

• Removing existing grass and weeds
• Leveling the soil
• Adding topsoil and/or compost
• Tilling the soil to a depth of at least 4 inches

5. Planting Floratam Sod

   Once your lawn has been properly prepared, it is time to plant Floratam Sod. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Plant sod in staggered rows to ensure full coverage
• Water immediately after planting
• Avoid walking on the sod for the first few weeks to allow for proper root growth
• Keep the sod moist until it is fully established

6. Maintaining Your Sod

   Proper maintenance is key to keeping your Floratam Sod healthy and vibrant. Some tips for maintaining your lawn include:

• Watering deeply and infrequently
• Mowing regularly, but not too short
• Fertilizing according to a regular schedule
• Treating for pests as needed
• Aerating the soil as needed to promote proper drainage

7. Common Problems

   While Floratam Sod is generally hardy and low maintenance, it can be prone to certain issues. Some common problems include:

• Chinch bugs
• Fungal diseases
• Improper fertilization
• Overwatering
• Thatch buildup

8. Troubleshooting and Problem Solving

   If you experience issues with your Floratam Sod, it is important to troubleshoot and problem solve promptly. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Identify the problem and its cause
• Take corrective action, such as adjusting watering or fertilization practices
• Consult with a lawn care professional if necessary

9. Benefits of Professional Lawn Care Services

   While Sod can be low maintenance, many homeowners choose to work with a professional lawn care service to ensure their lawn stays healthy and vibrant. Benefits of professional services include:

• Expert knowledge and experience
• Tailored lawn care plans based on your specific needs
• Timely and effective treatments for pests and diseases
• Regular fertilization and aeration to promote healthy growth

Floratam Sod is a beautiful and hardy grass variety that is well-suited for Florida’s climate. By following proper planting and maintenance practices, you can enjoy a lush

How to Maintain

• Watering: Floratam sod requires a good amount of water, but overwatering can lead to problems like fungus and root rot. It’s important to water deeply and infrequently, rather than frequently and shallowly. In general, This sod needs about 1-1.5 inches of water per week.
• Fertilizing: Floratam sod requires regular fertilization to maintain its lush green color and healthy growth. It’s important to use a fertilizer that is specifically designed for this sod, as other types of fertilizer may contain too much nitrogen or other nutrients that can be harmful. Generally, Floratam sod should be fertilized about every 6-8 weeks during the growing season.
• Mowing: Floratam sod should be mowed regularly to maintain a healthy and uniform appearance. It’s important to never remove more than one-third of the height of the grass blades at once, as cutting too much can weaken the sod and make it more susceptible to damage and disease. A good rule of thumb is to mow the sod when it reaches a height of 3.5-4 inches.
• Weed control: Keeping Floratam sod weed-free is important for maintaining its health and appearance. It’s important to use a weed killer that is safe for Floratam, as some types of herbicides can damage or even kill the grass. It’s also important to pull any weeds by hand as soon as they appear, before they have a chance to spread.

Where to Buy Floratam Sod

• Local sod farms: Many local sod farms carry Floratam sod, and purchasing from a local supplier can be beneficial as they may have a better understanding of the local climate and soil conditions. Reach out to us at Hudson Ranch Sod for the best sod available in Southwest Florida.
• Home improvement stores: Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe’s may also carry Floratam sod, making it easy to purchase if you’re already at the store for other lawn or garden supplies.
• Online retailers: Some online retailers specialize in selling sod, and may offer delivery options for a convenient way to get sod delivered right to your doorstep.

Floratam sod is a popular choice for homeowners looking for a grass that is durable, attractive, and easy to maintain. With its resistance to pests and disease, and its ability to tolerate heat and drought, it’s a great choice for those living in warmer climates like Florida. By following proper maintenance practices and purchasing from a reputable supplier, you can enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn.