Why I didn’t use Sod in my own Backyard

If you haven’t already read it, this could be considered part 2 of my article “Why I Prefer Sod over Seed.”  In this brief article I expound upon that article and I will also go over several reasons why I decided to seed a portion of my backyard rather than install sod.

LABOR

Since this is for my personal home labor is FREE!  Labor is a huge factor to consider with regards to any enhancement projects in the landscape.  Landscaping is physically demanding and some projects can require a lot of man power.  So when you are looking at a DIY project versus hiring a company this will come into consideration. 

Photo(above): Weed Control Before

Photo(above): Weed Control After

COST

Well, with the cost of labor nonexistent that leaves just the price of materials to consider.  I needed to cover approximately 500 square feet of area.  This is equivalent to about 1 pallet of sod.  Looking up pricing online for a local home improvement store I can find a pallet of sod for $398.  On that same website I can also find a 20-pound bag of Sun and Shade Grass Seed for $67.98.  This bag says it will cover 4,000 square feet of new lawn.  Since I had to seed this area two times let’s say we used ? of the bag.  This means I only used $16.99 worth of seed to cover the same area as sod.  Even if I throw on a bag of fertilizer and some weed control measures I could still be well under $100 to cover the same area as sod and at ? of the price.  What will I do with that extra $300 in my pocket?

Photo(above): During re-seeding patchy spots

Photo(above): After re-seeding patchy spots

R&D

At Lawn Butler we strive to be an industry leader.  In an ever changing industry sometimes it’s difficult to stay on top.  One of the ways we achieve this is by performing our own Research and Development.  By deciding to seed my backyard I have the opportunity to find out what works and doesn’t work.  Sometimes we have the opportunity to test out products on clients’ projects at a discounted rate.  By choosing to seed my backyard rather than sod I can better learn what will be best for our clients.  Every client is unique and every potential project is equally unique.  Having a good knowledge of different options helps me provide the best options to clients to meet their needs.   

CONCLUSION

In the end the final result would be the same if I used sod.  Where there was once dirt there is now lush green grass.  Sod would have accomplished this in a timelier fashion.  But, for me this was an economical solution as well as an opportunity to learn along the way.  What is best for you?  You will have to decide that on your own.

Photo(above): Before seedlings became fully established

Photo(above): After 2-1/2 Months