What is Floratam Sod?
What is involved in harvesting Floratam sod, a sturdy and vibrant variety of St. Augustine grass, that has become a go-to choice for homeowners and landscapers alike due to its resilience against drought and pests. This grass type, renowned for its thick blades and lush green color, thrives in warm, coastal environments, making it a popular option in regions with such climates. The Floratam sod grown at Hudson Ranch Sod is recognized as one of the best in all of Southwest Florida.
What has made this variety so popular? The landscape industry has witnessed a significant shift towards the use of Floratam sod, primarily because of its low maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal. Its ability to adapt to various soil types and withstand heavy foot traffic makes it an ideal choice for both residential and commercial properties.
Let’s look into some interesting information on harvesting Floratam sod and how you can request this grass for your property or next commercial project.
Harvesting Floratam Sod Squares not Rolls
Unlike traditional sod you might be familiar with from up north that is often harvested in rolls, Floratam sod is uniquely cut into squares. This method involves the precise slicing of the sod into manageable square pieces, which facilitates easier handling, stacking, and transportation.
Specially designed tractors and the skill of the operator ensures that the depth is perfect to make sure the grass will transport and install easily. We also need to know the moisture content and the best days to harvest. You might wonder if this is a preference or if there is an advantage to this method of harvesting Floratam sod for shipping.
Square-cut sod presents several advantages over its rolled counterparts. These include improved ease of installation, reduced risk of damage during transport, and enhanced adaptability to diverse landscaping designs.
Loading and Transporting Square-Cut Floratam Sod
As we are cutting and harvesting Floratam sod, each square of Floratam sod undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure its quality and vitality. The squares are then carefully stacked onto pallets, readying them for their journey. If the sod is cut to thin it will dry up quickly possibly damaging the sod.
If its too thick the pallet weight could be too much and increased weight could also damage the stack of sod. Not to mention of the sod is too heavy, it could slow down installation, reduce quality and the final look of the sodded area.
Specialized equipment is used to load the pallets of square-cut sod onto tractor trailers. This process maximizes space and ensures the sod arrives at its destination in optimal condition. If you need a special load configuration, just let us know and the experts at Hudson Ranch will work with you.
The Significance of Soil for Floratam Sod
The success of Floratam sod is heavily dependent on the soil it’s planted in. Well-draining, fertile soil with a balanced pH is crucial for the sod to establish its roots and flourish. If you want to know specifics of the soil we use for your sod, reach out to us at Hudson Ranch. We can show you our fields and work with you to grow exactly what you need for your next large planned unity community, golf course or commercial project.
Preparing Your Soil for Floratam Sod Installation
Before installation, it’s imperative to prepare the soil by clearing it of debris, leveling, and mixing in some organic matter if necessary. This preparation ensures the sod has the best possible start in its new environment.
Once delivered, Floratam sod should be installed as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours. This prompt installation prevents the roots from drying out and ensures the sod can begin acclimating to its new location immediately.
The Importance of Immediate Watering and Fertilization
After installation, it’s crucial to water the sod thoroughly to encourage root establishment. Check with us about fertilization and we can give you information on the treatments before harvest. Following the initial watering, which is most imporant then you can proceed with the necessary fertilizer for growth and helping to establish a healthy, vibrant lawn.
Maintaining Your Floratam Sod Post-Installation
The first weeks after installation are critical for the new sod. A consistent watering schedule that keeps the sod moist but not waterlogged is key to successful sod establishment. As we mentioned, fertilization should be approached with care, ensuring not to over-fertilize. The timing and type of fertilizer used play a vital role in the health and growth of Floratam sod.
Floratam sod’s cutting in squares, not rolls, its specific soil requirements, and the essential steps following installation are pivotal for achieving a lush, green lawn. Understanding these aspects allows project manages to enjoy the full benefits of this resilient and attractive sod variety. With proper care and maintenance, Floratam sod can transform any outdoor space into a vibrant and welcoming environment.
The experts at Hudson Ranch Sod look forward to working with you to plan out your next large scale project.
