Summary in a minute
If you want a lawn that looks finished right away, choose sod. It installs in 1 to 2 days, handles light use in about 2 to 3 weeks, and reaches normal traffic in 4 to 6 weeks. If you prefer a lower upfront cost and can wait a bit, choose seed. It needs 6 to 10 weeks to fill in, but performs beautifully long term with good soil prep and watering. On Martha’s Vineyard both options work well. Sod is perfect for deadlines and show-ready curb appeal. Seed is ideal for larger areas or tighter budgets.
Why Martha’s Vineyard needs a tailored approach
Island lawns deal with sandy or loamy soils, salt air, ferry logistics, and heavy summer use. That mix rewards strong prep and the right grass blends. We typically use turf-type tall fescue with some bluegrass or rye for a durable, attractive lawn. Whether you pick sod or seed, start with proper grading, compost-enriched topsoil, and a firm, level finish. If you want us to handle it end to end, see Lawn Installation.
Quick comparison: sod vs seed
| Factor | Sod | Seed |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Higher, includes farm-grown turf and delivery | Lower, material spend is modest |
| Installation speed | 1 to 2 days for most homes | 1 to 2 days to spread seed, 6 to 10 weeks to mature |
| Usable timeline | Light use in 2 to 3 weeks, normal use in 4 to 6 weeks | Light use in 4 to 6 weeks, normal use in 8 to 10 plus weeks |
| Day 1 look | Instant green lawn | Bare soil with starter mulch, green-up starts in 10 to 21 days |
| Early watering | High frequency in short cycles for 10 to 14 days | Frequent light watering until germination, then taper |
| Weed pressure | Lower at first due to canopy | Higher at first because soil is exposed |
| Grass choice | Pre-grown blends, custom orders need lead time | Maximum flexibility by variety and cultivar |
| Repairs | Patch with new sod quickly | Overseed easily, visual blend takes longer |
| Best fit | Deadlines, events, erosion control, high-visibility areas | Budget, large areas, patient timelines |
What affects cost on MV
Sod costs more at the start because it is grown on a farm, then shipped and installed with tight seams and rolling. Seed costs less at the start, but may require more visits to support germination and early growth. Access, irrigation, grading, and ferry timing also affect both options. The best next step is a site visit with a written proposal. Request a free estimate.
Timing and milestones
Sod
- Best seasons: late spring in May and June, early fall in September and October
- Root-in: 10 to 14 days with steady moisture
- First mow: at 3 to 3.5 inches, often around day 10 to day 14
- Traffic: light use after 2 to 3 weeks, normal use after 4 to 6 weeks
Seed
- Best seasons: mid September to mid October is ideal, May is a solid second choice
- Germination: 7 to 21 days depending on blend and temperature
- First mow: at 3 to 3.5 inches
- Traffic: light use after 4 to 6 weeks, normal use after 8 to 10 plus weeks
Tip for both paths. Pair installation with Lawn Fertilization Services to keep new turf fed on the right schedule.
Preparation is everything
Great lawns are built before the first roll of sod or the first seed hits the ground.
- Clear and grade
Remove debris and old turf where needed, fix low and high spots so water flows correctly. - Improve the soil
Blend compost and topsoil as needed. Island soils respond very well to added organic matter. - Finish grade and firm
Set final height to match thresholds, walkways, and irrigation heads. - Check irrigation
Confirm coverage and pressure. Adjust heads before installation. - Install the lawn
- Sod: lay tight seams, stagger joints, roll to set root contact.
- Seed: spread with a calibrated rate, rake in lightly, add starter fertilizer, then apply clean straw or pellet mulch where appropriate.
Looking at a full turnaround after years of wear or weeds. See Lawn Restoration for a complete plan.
Watering and early care
New sod, days 0 to 14
- Keep sod uniformly moist. The underside should not dry out. Use short, frequent cycles at first.
- Watch seams and edges since they dry first.
- First mow at 3 to 3.5 inches with a sharp blade. Never remove more than one third of the leaf.
- Limit traffic for 2 to 3 weeks.
New seed, weeks 0 to 3
- Water lightly and often to keep the top half inch of soil moist without puddling.
- After germination, shift to deeper, less frequent watering to build roots.
- Skip pre-emergent herbicides around seeding. For weeds, use targeted post-emergent treatments once seedlings are established with Lawn Weed Control.
Which option fits you best
Choose sod if you need a fast, clean finish for an event, a sale, a rental turnover, or a high-visibility front lawn. It also helps with erosion and gives low initial weed pressure.
Choose seed if you want the best value per square foot and can follow a simple watering plan for the first few weeks. Seed also gives you the most flexibility in selecting blends for shade, wear, or drought tolerance.
Not sure what to pick. We can price both paths after a quick site review. Book a free visit.
Common island scenarios
- New construction with compacted subsoil: either option works once the base is corrected. Often we include Core Aeration and compost to open the profile.
- Busy summer households: sod for near term curb appeal, seed in fall for back areas.
- Shady lots near the coast: shade tolerant seed blends with careful irrigation scheduling.
- High end rental turnover: sod for immediate presentation and predictable wear.
Nutrition and weed timing
- Apply a starter feed at install, then feed again about 4 to 6 weeks later. Organic programs work very well here.
- Time any weed control to protect new roots and seedlings. We will tune the schedule as part of Lawn Weed Control.
Ready to plan your lawn
We install across Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, Chilmark, and Aquinnah. You will get a clear plan, fair pricing, and a care schedule that fits your lifestyle.
Call +1 508-560-8186 or request a free estimate.
FAQs
Is sod stronger than seed?
Strength depends on species, soil quality, and care. With proper prep and maintenance, both sod and seed perform very well on Martha’s Vineyard.
Does sod block weeds?
At first, yes. The dense canopy shades the soil. Over time, healthy mowing height and steady nutrition keep weeds low. Seeded lawns reach the same point once they are thick.
Can I thicken my lawn without starting over?
Often yes. Power seeding or overseeding after Core Aeration is an effective refresh.
When can kids and pets use new sod?
Usually light use after 2 to 3 weeks and normal use after 4 to 6 weeks, as long as rooting and watering are on track.
When is the best time to seed on MV?
Early fall from mid September to mid October is ideal. Warm soil and cool nights speed germination and recovery.
Do I need irrigation?
Strongly recommended during establishment for both sod and seed. After that, water deeply and less often to encourage deep roots.
