Seeding vs. Sodding a Lawn

Whether you have a few bare spots in your lawn to patch or you're starting over, your options for starting new grass is to seed or sod.
 

sod getting rolled out from a pallet

Establishing a New Lawn

When establishing a new lawn, a common question asked is, "Should I seed or sod?" The answer to this question is different for everyone depending on the area in question, as well as how much time and money you want to invest.

The most significant difference between seeding and sodding is the time it takes to develop a mature grass stand. Sodding is quicker; it’s simply transplanting mature grass. Seeding establishes grass from an earlier stage. The following lists some of the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

Once you establish what method to use you will need to learn how much Milorganite® to mix into the top 2-4 inches of soil. Milorganite’s nitrogen and phosphorous accelerate lawn development and the iron provides a deep lasting green.

 

Seeding a Lawn

Advantages:

  • More grass types and varieties to choose from
  • Less expensive than sodding
  • Deeper root system
  • There is no thatch layer present which may harbor unwanted diseases or insect pests

Disadvantages:

  • Initial establishment takes longer
  • Time of seeding is limited mainly to late summer and early fall
  • Moisture is critical for the young seedlings
  • Invasion of weeds into bare soil
  • The area is inaccessible until the seed is fully established

 

Sodding a Lawn

Advantages:

  • Instant gratification
  • relatively weed-free in the beginning
  • Can be laid any time during the growing season
  • Sodded lawns control soil erosion on slopes and eliminate problems with mud while the grass is becoming established.
  • Instant accessibility to the area

Disadvantages:

  • Expensive
  • Less selection or control over types of grasses (shade or drought tolerance)
  • Labor intensive
     

Related Lawn Tips

bags of Milorganite

Why Use Milorganite

Learn why Milorganite is the best choice for your lawn.

 

man spreading grass seed

Spreader Settings

How to set your spreader for Milorganite.
 

 

orange fall leaves on grass

Seasonal Lawn Tips

Lawn and garden tips for every time of the year.

 

grass seed spreader

Rates & Schedule

When and how much Milorganite to apply.