Sod vs. Seed: Which Is Best for a New Lawn?

September 29, 2025
Person laying sod rolls on dirt, using gloved hands to fit pieces together, outdoors.

Creating a beautiful lawn starts with one big question: sod or seed? Both options have their benefits, and choosing the right one depends on your goals, timeline, and budget. At Paradigm Landscapes, we often help Salt Lake City homeowners make this decision during their lawn installation projects. In this blog, we’ll compare sod vs. seed so you can choose what’s best for your yard.

What Is Sod?

Sod is pre-grown grass that comes in rolls or squares and is installed like a carpet over prepared soil. It offers an instant lawn and is popular for its quick results.


Advantages of Sod:


  1. Instant green lawn
  2. Erosion control from day one
  3. Can be installed almost any time of year
  4. Less initial maintenance than seed


Sod is ideal if you want fast results with fewer weeds.

What Is Seed?

Seeding involves spreading grass seed over prepared soil and letting it grow over time. It's more affordable but requires patience and attention.


Advantages of Seed:


  1. Lower cost
  2. More grass variety options
  3. Deeper root systems (over time)
  4. Great for large or hard-to-reach areas


Seed is a great choice if you’re on a budget and can wait for growth.

Factors to Consider When Choosing

1. Timeline

Need a lawn fast? Go with sod. If you have time and patience, seed may be fine.


2. Budget

Sod is more expensive due to its labor and harvesting costs. Seed is much more budget-friendly.


3. Property Conditions

Sod is better for sloped areas or places prone to erosion. Seed can struggle in such areas unless carefully maintained.


4. Season

Sod can be laid in most seasons (excluding frozen ground), while seed requires ideal temperature and moisture conditions to germinate.

Professional Installation Makes a Difference

Regardless of whether you choose sod or seed, proper soil preparation is key. At Paradigm Landscapes, we provide expert lawn installation, including grading, leveling, soil amendment, and irrigation setup. We ensure your lawn—sod or seed—thrives from day one.

Choosing between sod and seed depends on your priorities. If you want an instant, polished lawn with fewer early-stage hassles, sod is the way to go. If you're comfortable with a little more work and a slower transformation, seeding is a smart, budget-conscious alternative. At Paradigm Landscapes, we’re here to help you every step of the way—no matter which route you choose.

Faq

Your Questions, Answered:

Everything You Need to Know

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  • 01. What sets your landscaping company apart from others?

    At Paradigm, we pride ourselves on our commitment to innovation, integrity, sustainability, and client satisfaction. Our team of experts brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to every project, ensuring exceptional results that exceed expectations.

  • 02. What landscaping services do you offer?

    We provide a comprehensive range of landscaping services, including hardscaping (pavers, retaining walls, fire pits), drainage solutions, and traditional landscaping with trees, plants, mulch, and rocks. Our goal is to offer tailored solutions to meet your unique outdoor needs.

  • 03. How do I schedule a consultation?

    Scheduling a consultation with us is easy. You can either fill out the contact form on our website, give us a call, or send us an email. Our team will then reach out to you to arrange a convenient time for the consultation.

  • 04. How long does a landscaping project typically take?

    The duration of a landscaping project depends on various factors, such as the size and complexity of the project, weather conditions, and permitting requirements. During the consultation, we'll provide you with a timeline based on your specific project details.

  • 05. Are your landscaping practices environmentally friendly?

    Yes, sustainability is a core value at Paradigm Landscapes. We incorporate eco-friendly practices into our designs and operations, utilizing sustainable materials, water-efficient irrigation systems, and native plant species to minimize environmental impact.

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