How to Prep Your Yard for Sod in Arkansas (Step-by-Step DIY Guide)
- Esteban Maraboli
- Sep 29
- 2 min read
So you’re thinking about laying down fresh sod in your yard awesome! Whether it’s for a new lawn, a patch-up job, or just making your place look sharp, prepping the ground is the most important part.
If you skip it or rush it, your grass won’t grow right. But don’t worry we’ll walk you through every step like a neighbor lending a hand.
🌱 Step 1: Pick the Right Time
In Arkansas, the best time to install sod is spring or early fall. Why? Because it’s not too hot and not too cold. Your grass needs time to settle in before extreme weather hits.
🧹 Step 2: Clear the Area
Get rid of everything old grass, weeds, rocks, sticks, and junk. You want bare dirt.
Use these tools:
Shovel or garden hoe – for digging up old grass
Rake – to smooth things out and remove debris
Wheelbarrow – to haul stuff away
🛒 You can buy these at:
Lowe’s (Springdale, Fayetteville, Rogers)
Local stores like Westwood Gardens or Sanders Nursery
🧪 Step 3: Test Your Soil
Grass likes soil that’s not too acidic and not too sandy. You can buy a soil test kit for about $10–$20.
🛒 Where to get it:
If your soil needs help, you might need to add lime (to reduce acid) or compost (to boost nutrients).
🚜 Step 4: Till the Soil
Use a rototiller to loosen the top 4–6 inches of soil. This helps roots grow deep and strong.
🛠 Rent one from:
Home Depot Tool Rental
Sunbelt Rentals
Some local hardware stores
If you don’t want to rent, a strong shovel and elbow grease will do the trick (but it’s a workout!).
🧱 Step 5: Level It Out
Use a landscape rake or a regular garden rake to smooth the soil. You want it flat, with no dips or bumps. Water can pool in low spots and kill your grass.
Tip: If your yard slopes, make sure water flows away from your house—not toward it.
💧 Step 6: Water the Soil (Just a Bit)
Lightly water the soil a day before laying sod. It should be moist, not muddy. This helps the sod stick and start growing.
🧼 Step 7: Add Starter Fertilizer
Sprinkle starter fertilizer to give your sod a boost. Look for one with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
🛒 Available at:
Lowe’s
Home Depot
Ozark Earth & Sod (they know exactly what works best in Arkansas soil!)
🧩 Step 8: You're Ready for Sod!
Now your yard is prepped and ready for fresh sod. Lay it down like puzzle pieces, keep it tight, and water it right away.
🌟 Final Tip: Call the Sod Experts
If you want top-quality sod that’s grown for Arkansas weather, reach out to the folks at Ozark Earth & Sod. They’ll help you pick the right type of grass, give you tips, and even deliver it to your door.
📞 Call Ozark Earth & Sod today🌐 Visit their website📍 Local, friendly, and ready to help!
Your lawn deserves the best and so do you.
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