Michigan Sod Growers Association

782 Waldo Rd.
Williamston, MI 48895
ph: 517-202-3593

Sod vs Hydroseed

Here are some comparisons of each that can help you decide-

HANDS DOWN!

 

         Hydroseed       Sod

Coverage

Seed takes weeks to fill out. Seeded lawns are not uniform at first.

Sod makes an instant carpet of grass. New sod is rarely patchy or uneven in color.

Planting

Not recommended for winter or summer, possible in spring, best in fall for most areas.

Year around installation if available.
Cost vs. Value

Higher maintenance costs, increased water & chemical applications, as well as delayed use. These are trade off's for lower installation costs.

Installation costs are offset by added value of timing, usability, uniformity and visual appeal. Reduced maintenance, chemical and water costs.
Erosion

Heavy rains on sloping areas will cause seed, chemicals and silt to wash into sidewalks and into drain systems.

Capable of accepting heavy rains without erosion or damage.
WeedsMultiply applications of chemicals usually required to combat weeds until turf is established.

Minimal, if any chemicals required.

Environmental Benefits of Sod

Cooling Affect: Sod has been shown to lower surface temperatures by as much as 30ºF when compared to adjacent bare soil and driveway surfaces.

Air to Breathe: The process of photosynthesis in plants releases oxygen into the atmosphere.  A 50x50 foot area of Sod can generate enough oxygen to meet the needs of a family of four.

Soil Enrichment: Sod forms a very extensive fibrous root system.  As the root system decays, micr0-organisms form humus which was originally derived from atmospheric carbon dioxide, & thus improves soil quality.

Cleaning Air: One acre of grass will absorb hundreds of pounds of fossil fuel air contaminants.

Soil Erosion Prevention: Protection of a vital natural resource– Sod offers immediate soil stabilization, reducing soil loss to storm drains, stream channels and roadside ditches.

Water Conservation: Sod has a superior capability of trapping and holding rain water in place for ground water recharge and thereby reduces run-off and the need for more extensive flood control structures.

Clean Water: Sod surfaces act as filters for water— cleaning  and purifying the water as it moves through the soil profile.

Increases Home Value: Gallup survey reported that  more than 60% of homeowners felt that investments in Sod and landscapes were good or better than other home improvements.

 

 

Copyright 2010 Michigan Sod Growers Association. All rights reserved.

2149 Commons Parkway
Okemos, MI 48864
ph: 800-879-6652