Before you begin
- Measure and mark: Measure and mark the area you plan to de-sod using spray paint. The size of the area will help determine which type of cutter makes the most sense for the job.
- Clean debris: Rocks and twigs are obstacles that can prevent the sod cutter from doing its job. Walk around the area where you will be removing the sod and remove any branches, twigs or rocks from the area. Mark any obstacles you can’t remove, such as tree roots, with spray paint so you can avoid them.
- Move down: Unless you plan Reuse of sodCut your lawn as short as possible before using the cord cutter. This reduces the chance of grass sticking to the sod cutter blade, prevents the machine from slipping into the grass, and makes the roll of sod easier to pick up and carry.
- Water the lawn: Wet soil makes it easier for sod cutters to cut through the turf. Water the soil a day or two before removing the sod. “You don’t want to make it soupy, so don’t add too much water,” advises Gualtierre.
How to use a motorized sod cutter
The process of using a motorized sod cutter involves positioning it properly and allowing it to do most of the work. Here’s how to use this tool.
Step 1: Place the sod cutter at the edge of the area.
Push the sod cutter just outside the edge of the area you plan to cut so that you remove long straight strips of sod. Position the sod cutter so that the blade is aligned with the starting edge of the area you marked to remove to avoid shifting. Sod you want to save.
Step 2: Start the engine.
Locate the fuel valve and switch it to the open position. Close the choke and turn the engine switch to the ON position. Like walk-behind mowers, most motorized sod cutters have a safety bar or handle that you’ll need to squeeze to start the engine. Hold the handle or bar and pull the starter cord to start the engine. After the engine starts, move the choke to the run position.
Step 3: Set the blade depth.
Tilt the sod cutter forward, set the blade to a depth of 1 to 2 inches, then tilt the sod cutter back to the blade. The goal is to set the blade as deep as you can cut below the grass roots while removing as little soil as possible from under the grass.
Step 4: Cut the test strip.
Squeeze the throttle to engage the blades and start the drive wheels. Avoid the urge to push. Instead, let the wheels do the work. Listen to the engine and lower the throttle to slow the sod cutter if you hear the engine start to bog down. Stop after 2 or 3 feet and inspect the sod.
“If the sod rips or the blade just cuts the blade of grass, you’re too shallow,” says Gualtier. “If the machine is struggling or you can barely move the sod because it’s too heavy, you’re probably too deep.”
Step 5: Cut the first row.
Continue to the end of the first row, allowing the wheels of the machine to drive the sod cutter forward. When you reach the end of the first row, raise the handle to cut the strip of sod.
Step 6: Roll the sod.
Move the sod cutter out of the way and roll up the first strip of sod. You can compost the sod, dispose of it, or potentially recycle it. “If it’s healthy sod you can reuse it in another part of your yard,” says Gualtier. “Move it quickly and keep it moist to give it the best chance of survival.”
Step 7: Continue cutting strips.
Continue cutting each row, rolling, and collecting each strip of sod until you are done removing the sod. “Overlap each pass slightly, closing the blade completely before turning,” says Gualtier.
How to use a manual sod cutter
Operating a manual sod cutter is similar to using a spade or shovel.
Step 1: Cut around the area.
Push the spade into the sod about 3 inches, working around the perimeter of the entire area you’re removing. Move inside the area and use the sod cutter to create a grid of approximately 12 inch by 12 inch squares within the area.
Step 2: Remove the turf.
Push the spade into the turf at a 45-degree angle. Lower the handle of the tool and push it forward until the blade is parallel to the ground. The blade cuts under the turf below the grass roots. Push it forward into the turf, move up the turf square, and then remove the next square.
How to use a manual kick sod cutter
A manual kick sod cutter works the same way as a motor cutter, but uses leg power instead of a gas engine to make the cut.
Step 1: Position the cutter.
Move the cutter into position so you can remove the sod in long strips. Position the cutter so that the blade lines up along the edge of the area you plan to cut.
Step 2: Kick the cutter.
Firmly grip the two handles, then kick the cutter’s crossbar to move it forward. Keep kicking it until you reach the other end of the area you’re clearing.
Step 3: Cut the strip.
Once you reach the end of the first row, raise the handlebars to cut the strip of sod. Roll up the sod then position the sod cutter to cut the second row.
Sod Cutter Maintenance Tips
Taking care of your sod cutter with regular maintenance will extend the life of the tool. Here are some key ways to care for your sod cutter.
- Check the fluid level. If you’re renting a motorized sod cutter, check the fluid level before starting.
- Clean the blade. Remove any soil or grass from the blade after use to prevent it from rusting while in storage.
- Sharpen the blade. A spade with a sharp edge cuts through sod more easily than a dull one. Sharpen the blade using a grinder or a file.
- Treat the blade. Clean the blade with a light coating of oil to protect it from rust while in storage.
- Lubricate moving parts. For manual kick sod cutters, lubricate any moving parts and check the wheels and bolts to make sure they are properly tightened.
FAQ
Q. When should I use a mechanical sod cutter?
Use a sod cutter when you need to remove large areas of existing grass without significantly disturbing the soil beneath it. It is ideal for starting new garden beds or Major lawn renovation To replace weedy, diseased turf.
Q. Can you rent a sod cutter?
Yes, you can rent a sod cutter from most equipment rental places. Major home improvement chains, such as Home Depot, also offer sod cutter rentals.
Q. Are there other ways to remove grass?
Yes, a square edge spade can be used to remove small sections of sod. You can also rent or buy a kick plow sod cutter. You can also kill large areas of grass by covering them with plastic sheeting or cardboard. While you shouldn’t use herbicides on large areas of grass, a very concentrated vinegar spray (20 percent vinegar) can kill large areas of grass.
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