Planting Sod Plugs

Overview

Well-established grass can make all the difference in creating a healthy, attractive lawn. Take the time to research the best type of grass for your environment and purposes. Plugs are an economical way to refurbish a grass lawn and are available for many different types of grass. St. Augustine and Bermuda grass plugs are widely available from retailers. Though planting sod plugs will be a long day's work, a lush and fertile lawn can be your reward.

Step 1

Fully soak your lawn 24 hours before planting plugs. Moist soil is much easier to work with when planting grass plugs.

Step 2

Use a plugger to dig holes in a checkerboard pattern. If you don't have access to a plugger, use a hand shovel to dig holes slightly larger than the size of a plug.

Step 3

Place one scoop of starter fertilizer in each hole. Starter fertilizers are specially formulated for root growth of grass plugs.

Step 4

Place each plug in the center of a hole and cover the roots with a handful of dirt. The closer the plugs, the faster they will grow together and fill in your lawn.

Step 5

Firmly pat the soil with your hand to eliminate any air pockets.

Step 6

Soak the area around your plugs with water. Continue to water your plugs every day for 7 to 10 days, until the roots are firmly established.

Step 7

Once the roots are established, apply a fertilizer especially formulated for grass each month. Be sure to closely follow the directions on the label.