How can I push root growth in new sod?

I get asked this question almost daily, and my answer never changes. After you have a basic understanding of what kind of soil you are working with, you can take the appropriate steps necessary to correct it.

In and around St.George the soil's are usually sandy, or full of clay. Neither of these soil types really want grass to grow in them. So how can you change you soil to be a better host to turf? I recommend Gropower plus, a fertilizer that may or may not get the nod from your nursery professionals. Gropower plus is a 5-3-1 fertilizer with lots of humic acid. In a way it's a cure all, to solve problems in all soil types Gropower is not made from animal or human waste like some closely related comparisons, but is produced from composted plant material. Don't get me wrong, products like, Milorganite, turkey mulch and steer manure all have their place. They are good products and, great soil amendments, but science has come along way, and the thought my kids rolling around in these is unapealing at the very least.

Gropower plus contains a 1% soil penetrate to help break up clay, Think of it like chemical areation. For sandy soil's, Gropower adds organic material to help change the natural composition of the soil permanently. Gropower does exactly what the name implies. and applied at 20-25lbs per 1000 square feet before laying down sod is a sure way to ensure fast strong roots. You can add up to 200lbs. in certain soil, but it needs to be tilled into the top 3-4 inches to prevent burning.

You will see a lot of top growth with Growpower in the first few weeks, but growth will level off at about week three. After the sod has been mowed twice you may want to top dress at a rate of 10-15lbs. per 1000, to maintain color and overall health of the turf. Maintain your grass at the 10-15lb. rate every six weeks through the season, and your neighbors will envy you. That's what it's really all about right? Gropower is a very easy to use fertilizer with very little risk of burn to grass at these rates.

Use Gropower in areas where organic material is low, or compacted, sandy or heavy with clay. I highly recommend Gropower plus, and it and gets PETE 5* score. I'm pretty stingy with these. In St. George you can find Gropower and all your other fertilizer needs at Sprinkler Supply Company. Just ask for PETE.