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Initial Soil Loosening and Tilling

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Harley rake, then fine rake. #landscaping #sod

What happens here

As the narrator mentions, the initial crucial step in preparing the ground for sod is to loosen and break up the existing soil. This is typically achieved by using a rototiller to aerate the soil to a depth of approximately 4 to 6 inches. Tilling helps to improve drainage, promote root penetration for the new sod, and makes it easier to level the surface later. During this phase, remove any large rocks, stubborn roots, or significant clumps of dirt that become visible.

Goal: Break up compacted soil and remove initial large debris to prepare for leveling.

Tools and materials

  • Rototiller N/A — Breaking up and aerating compacted soil
  • Shovel N/A — Removing large rocks, roots, or soil clumps unearthed during tilling
  • Wheelbarrow N/A — Collecting and transporting removed debris