5 Tips to Use a Sod Cutter

If you have recently purchased a Ryan® sod cutter and are searching for ways to use your tool safely and efficiently, we can help. Crownstone Equipment is your local lawn equipment dealer, and our experts have gathered a few strategies to follow when cutting sod on your lawn.

1. Inspect Your Machine

Although Ryan Equipment sod cutters are rugged and built to last for years, you will want to perform preventive maintenance to ensure your machine is ready for work.

Inspect the blades to see that they are sharp enough and adjust your machine’s tire pressure to your manufacturer’s recommendation. You will also want to ensure the belts and cables are secure and not loose.

2. Prepare Your Yard

Even with a motorized cutter, cutting sod is laborious, so make sure that you prepare your lawn first. Water your yard to moisten the top couple inches of soil, and start your sod cutter. This will allow the blades to penetrate the ground easily and quickly.

3. Mark Your Territory

Next, you will want to mark the areas of grass you want to remove and plan a pattern to follow. Sod cutters cut grass in straight lines, and you will want to slice rectangular sections to get straight and long strips of sod that are easy to bale and transport.

4. Test Cut a Small Section First

Before you start cutting sod, test cut a small section to verify that you are getting a clean cut with 3/4-inch of dirt as a part of the sod.

5. Roll Sod for Removal

Finally, you will want to roll your sod strips into circular bales before transporting them to your desired location. When storing it before replanting, remember to sprinkle it with water to keep the grass fresh and green.

We hope you find this guide handy when cutting sod. If you are still in the market for a sod cutter, visit Crownstone Equipment to peruse our fine selection of Ryan Equipment sod cutters. We have dealerships in Pennsylvania and Maryland, so stop by the one that’s nearest to you.