Why November Is Ideal for New Sod in Florida

Many home and business owners take the time to incorporate sod, or a pre-grown layer of grass, in their landscape design. However, Florida’s temperatures can make the laying process difficult, as high heat can over-stress the grass before it has time to properly root. 

Here’s why November is one of the best times of year for installing new sod:

 

Cooler Temps

Spring is technically considered the top time to install sod due to its warmer soil conditions, moderate air temperatures, and consistent rainfall. However, fall is widely considered by experts to be a close second. In autumn, the soil is still warm from the summer months, but the cooler air reduces stress on the grass. This allows the roots to grow strong before winter.

These kinds of sod are typically recommended to install in November:

• Zoysia
• St. Augustine

 

Moisture Retention

Like the spring time, fall normally brings a higher amount of rain as well as humidity, helping sod to retain moisture. Be sure to water your sod right after installation until the soil is soaked; this helps the roots to settle into the earth. After 7-10 days, begin daily watering, lightly wetting the turf 2-3 times a day. Watering can gradually be reduced once the roots begin to develop.

 

Pesky Pests

When summer begins to fade, so do the number of Floridian pests, such as mosquitoes, wasps and bees, and palmetto bugs (cockroaches). This makes November the ideal time for laying sod in Florida, as pests are normally looking for somewhere warm to hide for the upcoming winter. You’ll never be completely rid of all the sunshine state’s pests, but fall may be the ideal time as they excuse themselves to the indoors.

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