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Last Updated on November 28, 2024 by John Patterson
Taking off sod sounds simple, but without the right tools and methods that cut can get long and backbreaking. If you’re a pro landscaper, a home gardening buff, or get sucked into a backyard DIY overhaul, a sod cutter can easily become your best friend.
So in this guide, we are going to show you how to use a sod cutter as efficiently, safely and effectively as possible for any sized lawn or garden-cutting job. Learn everything you need to know, from the tools and preparation to step-by-step instructions for different types of sod cutters.
Materials and Tools for Cutting Your Sod
Being prepared with the right tools is key to a successful sod-cutting experience. Here’s everything you need to know.
Equipment for Sod Cutting
Sod cutter: Manual, motorized, or tractor-mounted, depending on your needs
Lawn Mower: To cut the grass before you get all into cutting.
Rake — For clearing debris before and after cutting.
Tape Measure: To accurately measure the area needing to be cleared.
Lawn-Safe Paint or Chalk Spray: To outline the areas you’re going to mow.
Protective Equipment
Safety first: always be at the ready with:
Safety Glasses: Protects eyes from any debris/ dirt that might fly out.
Gloves — For gripping tightly and to keep from blistering or scratching.
Steel-Toes Shoes: To protect your feet when working with heavy machinery.
General Tips When Cutting Sod
Cutting sod isn’t merely a matter of jumping into the action—it requires a preparation process and execution. Follow these few key steps at each stage of the process for best results.
Before Sod Cutting
Watch Out for Debris on Lawn: Pick up rocks, sticks and anything that might get in the way of cutting.
Mow Your Lawn: Cut the grass down to about 2 inches to help make sod-cutting easier and cleaner.
Water Your Lawn: Gently water the soil, 1–2 days prior. This also softens the ground for easier cutting without making it muck.
Mark The Lawn: Use tape or chalk spray to mark where you want to remove sections.
Use the Right Safety Gear: Make sure all protective gear is in place before you get started.
Try a Small Area First: Use the sod cutter on a small piece to test your settings and depth.
During Sod Cutting
Overlap Passes As You Go: To avoid any strips of sod being left behind, overlap each pass by a small amount.
Collect Sod On The Go: Roll and stack any sod you strip for easy disposal or reuse.
After Sod Cutting
Lift Blades to Avoid Damage: When you’re finished, carry the sod cutter with blades elevated to prevent damage while you’re on the road.
Sod Cutter Instructions According to the Type of Tool
There are different kinds of sod cutters available, and what you need will depend on the size of your area and how much you want to spend. In the following, we provide instructions for the uses of several different sod cutter types.
How to Use a Motorized Sod Cutter (Ideal for Medium- to Large-Sized Areas)
Motorized sod cutters are effective for bigger yards and commercial projects. Here’s how to use them:
Check and Set Fuel Levels: Ensure the machine is good and fueled (if gas-powered) and set the blade depth according to the thickness of your sod.
Turn on the Machine: Power the machine according to the manufacturer’s guide.
Find the Blades: Set down the blades to the appropriate depth—as a rule, one–to two inches.
Cut in Straight Lines: Guide the sod cutter forward in straight lines.
Make paths overlap slightly to avoid streaks.
Release Roll: Roll each strip of sod as you cut it for easy removal or reuse.
Disable and Secure: Once finished, turn off the engine and lift the blades for safekeeping or transport.
Photo Credit: Juan Rodriguez
Manual Kick-Plow Sod Cutter (Best for Gas-Free Work)
A manual sod cutter will be a little cheaper but takes more physical labor. They are perfect for small to mid-size spaces.
Outline the Area: Scale up the area you wish to cut using chalk or tape.
Adjust Blade Depth: Drive the blade into the soil as in how deep you want it to go (step on it with your foot).
Kick Ahead: Lean in to give the cutter a kick forward. Do this until you do it for your preferred part.
Using a Square-Edge Sod Cutter (Best for Small Areas or Patches)
A square-edge sod cutter is simple, easy to use, and works well for small jobs.
Get the Edge Cutter in position Place the blade at the start of the cutting area.
Push Down, Press: Power the cutter forward through the sod in straight lines with your foot and hands.
Cut and Move: After cutting a section lift and place the cutter to the next location. Repeat until finished.
Sod Cutter: Tractor Mounted (Best for Ample Slopes)
Have a huge lawn (or professional contracting project)? For a tractor, a cutter (a.k.a. flail mower) is a good option.
Get Your Tractor Ready: Clip on the sod cutter attachment and set the blade depth.
Physically Define: Use chalk or flags to mark the area you will cut.
Keep It Slow and Steady: Give the cutter time to do its thing at an easy pace for smooth, even lines.
Sod Cutter Basics
Consider the advantages and disadvantages of sod cutting to determine if it’s the right solution for your landscaping project.
Pros of Cutting Sod
- Quick Lawn Makeover: Excellent for quickly killing grass before laying down mulch, patios, or sod replacement.
- Reuse the Grass: If sod is removed, roll it up for replanting elsewhere.
- Avoids cost: Saves time and labor as manual work becomes less.
Cons of Cutting Sod
- Heavy Equipment Expense: You might need to rent or buy equipment, which could be expensive in the beginning.
- Skill Required: You need some practice to get the straight, even cuts.
- Labor Intensive: Even with an array of tools, removing sod takes physical work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I cut sod?
In most cases, you’ll want to set your sod cutter for 1–2 inches in depth. Make sure it has both the grass and root system.
Can I reuse the removed sod?
Absolutely! You can replant rolled sod in new areas or use it to patch bare spots.
Will sod cutting ruin my lawn?
Not if you do it right. Do things like trim and water prior to minimize stress on your lawn.
What is the cost to rent a sod cutter?
Rental prices can vary based on your region and which cutter, but usually between $70 and $150 per day.
Do I really need a sod cutter, or can I do this by hand?
For smaller patches, hand cutting with the use of tools such as square-edged cutters is possible. For larger areas, a sod cutter saves a lot of time and effort.
Transform your Landscape Today
Cutting sod may seem like a daunting task but when you have the right tools and the right approach, it is a manageable and rewarding project. Whether it’s clearing an area for a new garden bed or preparing an area for a landscape renovation, sod cutters are an invaluable tool for professional landscapers and weekend DIY-ers alike.
Having trouble deciding which sod cutter is right for your project? Call your local equipment rental or speak with a landscaping professional to learn how to get started. You’ll have that perfect greenspace in no time, with dedication and the tips from this guide!
