Grass Plugs
Grass plugs are are small clumps of sod (with some soil) that has been lifted
out of a stand of grass. This plug is then placed in it's permanent
location in your lawn. The closer you plant the plugs, the sooner they
will cover the ground and the more expensive the project. Plant plugs
on a staggered grid. If spacing them 6" apart, figure on two
plugs per square foot, or 2,000 per 1,000 square feet. Plugs are also
great for repairing damaged areas in the lawn. You can cut your own
plugs from other areas in your lawn and then put them into the damaged
areas. This ensures a good match.
Factors to consider
There are many factors to consider when deciding what method to use
when installing grass. The following are some of the characteristics
of each installation method which should be considered when making
a decision:
Initial Cost
Sod: Sod has the highest front-end cost.
Plugs: The initial cost of grass plugs is significantly
less than the initial cost of sod.
Time Sod Will Stay Fresh Before Installation
Sod: Sod must be installed very quickly after it is cut— preferably
the day it is delivered, and certainly no more than 48 hours after
delivery.
Plugs: Grass plugs can be maintained in their trays for
several weeks if they receive proper sunlight and water.
Water Required To Establish
Sod: Sod must be watered at least once a day for the first 2 weeks
after installation.
Plugs: Grass plugs must be watered at least once a day for the first 7 — 10
days after installation.
Time to Full Coverage
Sod: Sod provides full coverage immediately, protecting your yard
from erosion and eliminating blowing soil.
Plugs: Grass plugs can take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to reach
full coverage, depending upon the type of grass used.
Weed Problems During Establishment
Sod: There are few weed problems associated with the establishment
of sod, since full grass coverage is obtained right away.
Plugs: Weed problems can be experienced in the
areas where grass plugs have not yet grown in.
Availability of Hybrids
Hybrid grass varieties are available in both sod and plug forms.
