How to Use a Sod Cutter

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. 

• Clear debris: Rocks and twigs are obstacles that can prevent the sod cutter from doing its job. Walk the area where you will remove 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.
• Mow low: Unless you plan on reusing the sod, mow your lawn as short as possible just prior to using a cod cutter. This decreases the chance that the grass from clogging the sod cutter’s blade, prevents the machine from slipping in the grass, and makes rolls of sod easier to lift and carry.
• Water the lawn: Damp soil makes it easier for the sod cutter to cut through the turf. Water the soil a day or two before the sod removal. “Don’t overwater as you don’t want it to be soupy,” Gualtiere advises. 

How to Use a Motorized Sod Cutter

The process for 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: Position the sod cutter at the edge of the area.

Push the sod cutter just outside the edge of the area you plan to cut such that you remove long straight strips of sod. Position the sod cutter so the blade is aligned with the starting edge of the area you’ve marked out for removal to avoid moving sod you want to preserve.  

Step 2: Start the engine.

Find the fuel valve and switch it to the open position. Close the choke and turn the engine switch to the on position. Similar to walk-behind mowers, most motorized sod cutters have a safety bar or handle you’ll need to squeeze while starting the engine for it to start. Hold the handle or bar and pull the starter cord to start the engine. After the engine is running, 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 onto the blade. The goal is to set the blades deep enough that you cut under the grass roots while removing as little soil below the grass as possible. 

Step 4: Cut a test strip.

Squeeze the throttle to engage the blade and start the drive wheels. Avoid the urge to push.  Instead, allow the wheels to do the work. Listen to the engine and lower the throttle to slow the sod cutter down if you hear the engine begin to bog down. Stop after 2 or 3 feet and inspect the sod. 

“If the sod rips or the blade only cuts off the grass blades, you are too shallow,” Gualtiere says. “If the machine is struggling or you can barely move the sod because it’s so heavy, you are probably too deep.”

Step 5: Cut the first row. 

Continue to the end of the first row, allowing the machine’s wheels to drive the sod cutter forward. When you reach the end of the first row, raise the handle to cut off 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,” Gualtiere says. “Move it quickly and keep it moist to give it the best chance of surviving.”

Step 7: Continue cutting strips.

Continue cutting each row, rolling and collecting each strip of sod until you’ve completed the sod removal. “Overlap each pass slightly, stop the blade completely before turning,” Gualtiere says. 

How to Use a Manual Sod Cutter

Operating a manual sod cutter is very similar to using a spade or shovel. 

Step 1: Cut around the area.

Push the spade about 3 inches into the sod, 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 squares about 12 inches by 12 inches 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 until the blade is parallel to the ground and push it forward. The blade cuts under the turf just below the grass roots. Push it forward into the turf, pry up the square of turf, and then remove the next square. 

How to Use a Manual Kick Sod Cutter

A manual kick sod cutter works similarly to a motorized cutter, but uses leg power instead of a gas engine to make the cut. 

Step 1: Position the cutter.

Move the cutter into place so that you can remove the sod in long strips. Position the cutter so that the blade lines up for the edge of the area you’re planning to cut. 

Step 2: Kick the cutter.

Grip the two handles firmly, then kick the cutter’s crossbar to move it forward. Keep kicking it until you reach the other end of the area that you’re clearing. 

Step 3: Cut the strip. 

Once you reach the end of the first row, raise the handlebars to cut off 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 prolong the life of the tool. Here are some key ways to care for your sod cutter. 

• Check fluid levels. If you’re renting a motorized sod cutter, check the fluid levels prior to getting started. 
• Clean the blade. Scrape away any soil or grass off the blade after use to prevent rust from forming on it while it’s in storage. 
• Sharpen the blade. a spade with a sharp edge cuts through sod much more easily than a dull one. Sharpen the blade using a grinder or file. 
• Treat the blades. Wipe the blade with a light coating of oil to protect it from rust while in storage. 
• Lubricate moving parts. For a manual kick sod cutter, lubricate any moving parts and check the wheels and bolts to make sure they’re properly tightened. 

FAQ

Q. When should I use a mechanical sod cutter?

Use a sod cutter when you need to remove large sections of existing grass without significantly disturbing the soil beneath it. It’s ideal for starting new garden beds or large lawn renovations to replace weedy, diseased turf. 

Q. Can you rent a sod cutter?

Yes, you can rent sod cutters from most equipment rental places. Large home improvement chains, such as The 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 sections of grass by covering it with plastic sheeting or cardboard. While you shouldn’t use herbicides on broad areas of grass, a highly contracted vinegar spray (20 percent vinegar) can kill large areas of grass. 

 

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