Alexei Volkov
Most types of sod have plastic mesh. The plastic mesh underneath sod serves the important purpose of keeping the soil and grass intact during transportation. It also prevents the growth of weeds and protects new sod from adverse weather, particularly in areas susceptible to erosion. However, some people dislike the use of plastic mesh in sod, as it can be difficult to remove once the grass has started growing, and it may be visible in places where the lawn is heavily trampled.
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What You'll Learn
Plastic mesh keeps soil and grass intact during transportation
Plastic mesh is commonly used to keep soil and grass intact during transportation. It is a popular choice for home grounds despite the potential inconveniences it may cause. The mesh holds the grass and soil together, preventing the sheets of sod from breaking apart. This is especially important for grass types that fall apart easily, such as TTTF, most fescues, and rye.
The plastic mesh is placed near the grassroots to maintain the rectangular or square shape of the sod during shipping. It keeps the soil compact, ensuring that the grass-root hairs retain moisture during and after transport. This is crucial in preventing sheet erosion, which can be caused by heavy rains and can lead to the uprooting of "unmeshed" sod.
In addition to its role in transportation, plastic mesh also aids in weed prevention. Opportunistic weeds can take root in lawns with intermittent patches, but the mesh inhibits their growth. This is another reason why some people choose to leave the mesh on the lawn even after installation.
However, it is recommended to remove the plastic mesh when placing the sod down. Over time, removing the mesh can become difficult due to root development and grass growth, which can distort the shape of the netting. Additionally, durable netting can last for over a decade, potentially breaking into countless small pieces that are challenging to manage. Therefore, it is advisable to detach the mesh before or after laying the sod, with the former being a simpler option.
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It prevents weeds from growing
Plastic mesh is often used underneath sod to keep the soil and grass intact during transportation and prevent the rolls from tearing. While it is meant to be removed, some people choose to leave it on as it inhibits weed growth.
The plastic mesh prevents weeds from growing by acting as a barrier that smothers any weeds, grass, or plant material that is growing underneath it. This is similar to how plastic sheeting or silage tarps are used to prevent weeds from growing in gardens. The plastic mesh also helps to maintain soil stability, keeping it compacted and preventing immature sod roots from being exposed. This further aids in preventing weeds from taking root and growing.
Additionally, the mesh can help to keep subsequent seed sprouts in check, preventing them from spreading and establishing themselves as weeds. This is especially important in lawns with intermittent patches, where opportunistic weeds can quickly take over. By using plastic mesh, turf growers can better control the growth of desired grasses while inhibiting the growth of unwanted weeds.
While plastic mesh can be effective in preventing weed growth, it is important to consider the potential drawbacks. Over time, removing the mesh can become difficult due to root development and grass growth, which can distort the shape of the netting. Some types of durable netting can also be quite long-lasting, sustaining multiple grass generations. This can lead to issues if the mesh begins to show through the lawn, creating an untidy appearance. Therefore, it is essential to carefully consider the benefits and potential challenges of using plastic mesh for weed prevention in sod.
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It maintains soil stability during planting
Plastic mesh is often used underneath sod to maintain soil stability during planting. It helps keep the soil compacted, preventing it from falling apart and exposing immature sod roots. This is especially important when transporting and moving sod from one spot to another, as it ensures the grass-root hairs don't lose water.
The plastic mesh also aids in maintaining the form of the grass before rooting starts. It minimizes grass wear and damage by distributing loads evenly and fostering a stronger root foundation. This results in a natural grass cover that enhances the lawn's appearance. Additionally, the mesh acts as a protective barrier against adverse weather conditions, particularly in areas susceptible to erosion. It prevents sheet erosion caused by heavy rains, which could otherwise uproot the sod.
While plastic mesh offers these benefits, it is important to consider its potential drawbacks. Over time, removing the mesh can become challenging due to root development. Some durable plastic netting can last for several years, but it may eventually break down into small pieces that are difficult to manage. The mesh may also become visible in heavily trampled areas, detracting from the aesthetics of the lawn.
The decision to remove the plastic mesh depends on various factors, including the lawn's upkeep history and the preparation of the planting area. If removal is desired, it is recommended to wait until the mowing stage to avoid damaging shallow sod roots.
It is worth noting that alternative materials, such as nylon netting and biodegradable plastic netting, are also available for use under sod. These materials can provide similar benefits to plastic mesh but may come with their own sets of advantages and disadvantages.
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It protects young grass from the elements
Plastic mesh is often used to protect young grass from the elements, including adverse weather conditions and erosion. It is particularly useful in areas susceptible to erosion, as it prevents the formation of ruts and protects the grass and soil from the impact of spinning wheels. This type of mesh is also water and weather-resistant, protecting the grass while making car parks or temporary walkways and standing areas easy to manage.
The mesh is also useful for grass protection in overflow car parks, golf buggy paths, light aircraft taxiways, grass verges, and emergency access routes. It can be used on uneven and flat ground and is suitable for areas with pedestrians, wheelchair users, and animals. The mesh is rot-resistant and chemically inert, providing a long-term reinforcement solution. It is also available in different colours, including green and black, to match the colour of the grass.
Plastic mesh can also be used to protect young grass from weed growth and soil instability during transportation and planting. It keeps the soil compacted, ensuring the grass-root hairs don't lose water, and it maintains the form of the grass before rooting starts. This helps to generate a stronger root foundation while preserving a natural grass cover layout.
However, some people may choose to remove the plastic mesh from their lawns due to concerns about durability and aesthetics. Over time, the mesh may become more difficult to remove as root development speeds up grass growth, distorting the shape of the netting. Additionally, durable netting can last for over a decade, potentially shattering into unmanageable pieces scattered across the grass.
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It's convenient for turf reinforcement in sloping areas
Plastic mesh is commonly used for turf reinforcement in sloping areas. It is a convenient method to maintain the form of the grass before rooting starts. The mesh helps to minimise grass wear and damage by dispersing loads and creating a stronger root foundation, while also preserving a natural grass cover layout. This is especially useful for preventing erosion in sloping areas, as it keeps the soil compacted and intact, ensuring grass-root hairs don't lose water.
The plastic mesh is designed to be left in place after planting fresh grass, and it will eventually vanish into the lawn, leaving an undetectable, natural-looking grass covering. It is important to note that some turf growers advise removing the mesh if the planting area has been properly prepared. This decision may also depend on the upkeep history of the lawn. Removing the mesh can be challenging, especially as root development can speed up grass growth, causing it to distort the shape of the netting over time.
The type of plastic mesh used for turf reinforcement varies and can be chosen based on the specific requirements of the area. For example, heavy-duty mesh is ideal for reinforcing grass in sloping areas where vehicles or heavy pedestrian traffic may pass. This type of mesh is made of high-density polyethylene and is designed to withstand weights of up to 20 tons, providing excellent traction and stability. It is also UV-stabilised, rot-proof, and chemical-resistant, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Alternatively, standard or premium mesh can be used for lighter reinforcement, ideal for pedestrian walkways and light vehicle traffic. This type of mesh is also UV-stabilised and rot-resistant, protecting the roots of the grass while allowing it to grow without restriction. The mesh is available in different colours, with green being the most common as it blends in with the grass, resulting in a natural-looking lawn.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic mesh is added to sod to hold the grass and soil in place during transportation. It also prevents weeds from growing and protects the young grass from the elements, especially in erosion-prone areas.
Plastic mesh can be difficult to remove from the sod once the grass has started growing. It may also be visible in places where the lawn is heavily trampled, and it can be challenging to mow or seed the lawn without damaging the mesh.
No, not all sods have plastic mesh. However, most types of sod do have it.
It is easier to remove the plastic mesh before the sod is laid down. If you are removing it after the sod has been laid, do so slowly and carefully to prevent breakage.
