Installing sod in Texas comes with its own set of challenges: scorching summers, long dry spells, clay-heavy soils in some areas, and sandy soils in others. But with the right prep and care, you can establish a lawn that thrives in Texas conditions. Here’s your complete Texas-specific guide.
Texas has diverse climates—humid Gulf Coast, dry West Texas, and everything in between. Choose sod based on your region:
• Bermuda grass: Excellent for full sun, heat tolerance, and quick recovery from foot traffic. Very popular across Texas.
• St. Augustine: Best for shaded areas and humid regions like Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio. Needs more water but thrives in partial shade.
• Zoysia: Dense, soft texture and drought-tolerant. Works well across much of Texas.
• Soil testing. Texas soils are often alkaline, especially in Central and West Texas. A test will tell you if you need to add sulfur or organic material to balance pH.
• Clay soils (North/Central Texas): Add compost or sand to improve drainage. Without this, water can pool and suffocate roots.
• Sandy soils (East/South Texas): Add organic matter to hold water and nutrients. Sandy soils dry out fast.
• Same-day installation. Sod cut in Texas fields deteriorates quickly in the sun. Plan to install the same day it’s delivered.
• Morning delivery is best. Cooler temps give you more working time before the heat stresses the sod.
• Plan your crew. A pallet can weigh around a ton. Have extra hands, a skid steer, or wheelbarrows ready.
• Start along a straight line. Driveways, sidewalks, or fences make good starting points.
• Stagger seams. Lay sod in a brick pattern to reduce erosion and create a tighter fit.
• Keep seams tight. Push edges together—no overlaps, no gaps.
• Cut as needed. Use a sharp knife for curves and around sprinklers or trees.
• Press down for contact. Use a roller or walk gently on the sod to ensure roots touch the soil with no air pockets.
Watering is where most Texas sod projects succeed or fail. Heat and drought mean you must be disciplined:
• Immediately after install: Soak sod so water penetrates 4–6 inches deep.
• First 2 weeks: Water daily in the early morning. In July/August heat, you may need a second light watering in the afternoon.
• Weeks 3–4: Water every other day, deeper so roots grow down.
• After 1 month: Transition to deep, infrequent watering (about 1 inch per week, including rainfall.
• Stay off sod for 2–3 weeks. Avoid heavy traffic until roots anchor.
• First mowing: When grass reaches 3–4 inches, mow on the highest mower setting. Never remove more than 1/3 of the blade.
• First feeding: After the first mow, apply a starter fertilizer to strengthen roots. In Texas, avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers during peak summer—opt for balanced blends.
• Water deeply, not often. Once established, most Texas sod needs 1 inch per week. Adjust for drought restrictions in your city.
• Seasonal fertilization. Apply fertilizer 3–4 times a year: early spring, early summer, late summer, and fall.
• Mowing height matters.
• Bermuda: 1–2 inches
• St. Augustine: 3–4 inches
• Zoysia: 1.5–3 inches
• Aerate annually. Especially in clay-heavy North Texas soils—this reduces compaction and allows roots to breathe.
A beautiful Texas lawn isn’t just about rolling out sod—it’s about choosing the right grass for your region, preparing the soil correctly, and staying disciplined with water and care, especially in the heat. Follow these steps, and your lawn will be tough enough to handle Texas summers while looking lush year-round.
Ready to transform your lawn? Contact Texas Sod Depot for expert advice, quality sod, and professional delivery services. Achieve the lawn of your dreams with Texas Sod Depot — your trusted partner in sod delivery across the Lone Star State.
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