Sod Tips

The debate between artificial turf and natural sod is real — especially in Florida, where homeowners want curb appeal without the maintenance. Here’s how the two stack up: Artificial Turf Pros: No mowing, watering, or fertilizing Consistent look year-round Good for shaded or difficult areas Artificial Turf Cons: Expensive upfront cost ($10–$15 per sq ft) Gets hot in the Florida sun (too hot for pets and kids) Can trap bacteria and odors Looks fake up close Real Sod Pros: [...]

Installing new sod in Florida? Great start. But it’s what happens after sod installation that truly determines your lawn’s success — and a properly designed irrigation system is key. Why irrigation matters: New sod has no root system — it relies entirely on surface moisture to survive the first few weeks. Too little water leads to drying and curling edges. Too much water encourages rot, fungus, and shallow root growth. Tips for success: Use rotating sprinkler heads or drip [...]

When we receive a call at Sunshine Sod in Florida, many clients ask how the pros prepare the area before sod installation.  Depending on what type of sod you are installing, the budget you may have or the timeline, there are simple strategies to implement or high-end options you can try to ensure success for your sod investment. Preparing the soil before installing sod is crucial to ensure its healthy establishment and long-term success.   Most soils are very similar [...]

Clients frequently call to ask which options are the best for backyard areas that have been damaged by their dogs or other pets. While no landscape will be totally immune to constant wear and tear from digging and urine issues, there are some choices that can last longer than others. Things to consider are: 1. St. Augustine Grass Pros: Thrives in Florida's warm climate and sandy soil. Good wear tolerance and recovers quickly from damage. Dense growth that resists [...]