Choosing and Installing Shade-Tolerant Sod in the Mid-South

Choosing and Installing Shade-Tolerant Sod in the Mid-South

Memphis area, 500 sq ft, shade. Fine fescue is the standard shade sod.

Fine Fescue Caveats

• Fails in wet/poorly drained soil.
• Hates high fertility—kills it.
• Prefers 3-inch mowing height.
• Excess water → leaf spot, red thread.

Premium Alternative: ‘Supernova’ Bluegrass

New variety outperforms fine fescue in shade. Rare, expensive, hard to source. If you find it, it’s state-of-the-art.

Installation Guide

Follow Sodding.com’s “How to Sod”—clear, concise, professional steps.

Key Steps

1. Soil test, amend per results.
2. Grade smooth, firm but not compacted.
3. Lay sod tight, stagger seams.
4. Roll for soil contact.
5. Water immediately, keep wet 2 weeks.

Fine fescue for standard shade. Supernova for the best. Install by the book.