Remove any debris unearthed during the last step. Any rocks, branches, and other objects in the soil interfere with the proper attachment of the sod to the soil, so ensure you remove all debris. In addition, this debris could lead to air pockets forming in the soil, and these air pockets dry out the new sod.
Level the ground. Any uneven areas in the lawn could lead to water pooling under the sod and killing it. Areas that sit higher than others mar the appearance of the lawn, which isn’t desirable either.
Apply soil amendments using a hand or walk-behind spreader. Follow all directions on the bag for the application of the amendments and make multiple light passes over the area. The application must be smooth and uniform to ensure the healthy growth of the sod.
Till the area once again to mix the fertilizer in with the soil. Smooth the ground down upon completion of the tilling using a heavy mat dragged across the soil.
Water the ground before laying the sod. The water helps the sod to attach to the soil. You want the ground to be damp but not drenched. If the area is muddy when it is time to lay the soil, allow it to dry before laying the first piece.