To sod or seed that is the question?

This is a commonly asked question and one worth writing about. I think several factors need to be addressed when you are making this decision. First I think you will want to consider the budget you are working with. If you are looking for the lower cost solution you will want to go with seed as it is the cheaper alternative. Sod is more expensive because you are paying for someone to grow and care for the seed through its early growth when it must be watered and tended more carefully. While there are advantages to seed and sod, seed is definitely more affordable then sod.

Next you will want to look at the size and overall terrain of the area. If you are working in areas that are heavily shaded you may not want to use sod because most sod varieties do better in an area that gets at least some sunlight. For instance if your lawn is oddly shaped with little nooks or corners or you have trees that shade large areas you will probably want to go with seed so that you can select a seed that will be able to survive in that area. If your area is on a steep slope or hill you may want to go with sod because seed can be more easily washed away.

Hydroseeding is yet another alternative to sod and seed. Hydroseeding involves a process by which water, seed, fertilizer, and fiber mulch are blended together in a tank and applied onto the prepared area by spraying it through a hose. Once sprayed, the wet fiber mulch helps to create a bond to the soil and provide the seeds with a water retaining cover while protecting it from sunlight, wind, pests, and erosion. When the grass seeds begin to germinate, the fiber mulch slowly begins to decompose thus adding nutrients to the soil. Hydroseeding is growing in popularity due in large part to its cost effectiveness it is cheaper then sod but more expensive then seed. It is a good way to get a great looking lawn in a shorter amount of time then conventional seeding.

Finally you will want to look at time constrictions. Seed poses more limitations then sod when it comes to when you can plant. The best time to plant seed is in late April through May and Late August through early September. Spring and fall provide the optimal growing conditions for seed. Sod can be laid throughout the growing season offering you more flexibility. Also if you need immediate results you will want to go with sod as seed can take considerably more time to reach the desired look you want for your lawn. So while seed is more affordable sod is the best choice if you are working with a limited time frame.