Go Touch Some Grass… Even In Winter

You’ve probably heard the phrase “go touch grass”, a friendly reminder to unplug, step outside, and reconnect with the real world. But during a Minnesota winter, when lawns are blanketed in snow and our sod fields are resting for the season, actually touching grass isn’t always an option. That doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy the outdoors, reset your mindset, and start planning for a greener future. At B&B Hoffman Sod Farm, winter is a time for rest, reflection, and preparation for both – people and lawns.

Winter Is Nature’s Reset Button

Just like we tend to slow down in the colder months, grass does too. Beneath the snow, healthy turfgrass enters dormancy, conserving energy and protecting its root system until warmer temperatures return. This natural cycle is essential for producing high-quality sod, strong root development, and resilient lawns.

At our sod farm, winter gives our fields time to recover so we can deliver premium sod when spring arrives. The work doesn’t stop… it simply shifts behind the scenes.

How to “Touch Grass” in Winter (Without the Grass)

Even when you can’t see your lawn, winter is still the perfect season to unplug and reconnect:

  • Take winter walks and enjoy fresh air
  • Spend time outdoors without screens
  • Appreciate the quiet beauty of dormant landscapes
  • Enjoy quality time with friends and family
  • Plan next year’s lawn improvements

Being present outdoors (even without green grass) helps reset your mind and prepare for the active growing season ahead.

Spring Will Be Here Before You Know It

You may not be able to touch grass today, but you can prepare for it. When winter fades and green returns, B&B Hoffman Sod will be ready with premium sod, expert guidance, quality fertilizer, and reliable grass seed to help your lawn thrive.

Until then, enjoy the slower pace, unplug when you can, and know that greener days are already growing beneath the snow.

Planning Now for Better Sod Later

While you’re waiting to touch real grass again, winter is a great time to plan your sod installation or lawn renovation. Whether you’re installing new sod or overseeding in spring, preparation matters.

Now is a great time to start thinking ahead about:

Winter is also a great time to stock up on fertilizer and grass seed so you’re ready as soon as the weather allows. Using the right fertilizer helps support root growth and nutrient uptake during early spring, while high-quality grass seed can fill in thin areas and enhance lawn density.

Early planning leads to stronger roots, faster establishment, and a healthier lawn once temperatures rise.

Ready to Plan Your Lawn for Spring?

Contact B&B Hoffman Sod Farm at 763-434-6572 today to learn more about our sod farm, available sod varieties, fertilizer options, and grass seed. We’ll help you get ready to touch grass again as soon as the snow melts. In the meantime, we hope you get outside to enjoy the fun of a Minnesota winter!



Last Call for Sod: There’s Still Time to Get a Beautiful Lawn Before Winter!

Fall is settling in, the temps are dropping… but guess what? It’s not too late to lay sod! B&B Hoffman Sod wants homeowners, landscapers, and property managers to know that there’s still a window of opportunity before the ground freezes – and it’s actually one of the best times of the year to install sod. If you’ve been dreaming of a greener lawn, don’t wait. This is your gentle nudge: it’s last call for sod this season!

Why Fall Is a Fantastic Time to Lay Sod

Many people assume spring is the ideal season for sod installation. While spring is great, fall actually has some major advantages:

Cooler Temperatures = Less Stress

Hot summer sun can take a toll on freshly laid sod. In fall, the cooler weather means:

  • Less moisture evaporates
  • Sod experiences less heat stress
  • You won’t be watering nonstop to keep it hydrated in hot weather.

Your sod can focus on what matters most: establishing strong roots.

Perfect Soil Moisture

Autumn naturally provides:

  • More consistent rainfall
  • Better overall moisture retention
  • Ideal conditions for root development

This creates the perfect environment for sod to take hold quickly and securely.

Strong Root Growth Before Winter

Fall sod doesn’t need to grow tall, it needs to grow deep. And that’s exactly what it does.

Cool-season grasses thrive in fall weather. While the top growth slows, the roots grow stronger, getting your lawn ready to thrive as soon as spring arrives. With proper watering and care, you’ll have a lush head start next year.

The Ground Isn’t Frozen Yet!

This is it.. 📣 LAST CALL! 📣

Once the ground freezes, sod installation will have to wait until next season. Right now, the soil is still workable, soft, and warm enough to support root establishment.

But this window is closing, and once winter truly sets in… it’s closed until spring.

Why Choose B&B Hoffman Sod This Fall?

We’re proud to provide high-quality, locally grown Minnesota sod that’s harvested fresh and ready for installation. Whether you’re:

  • Finishing a fall landscaping project
  • Repairing damaged lawn patches
  • Starting from bare dirt at a new home
  • Or just wanting the green lawn you’ve always wanted

…our team is here to help you make the most of the season.

We’ll give you guidance on installation timing, watering, and maintenance, making fall sod simple, successful, and stress-free.

Don’t Miss Your Chance — Order Before the Ground Freezes!

There’s a small but ideal window of opportunity left. With the perfect mix of cool temps and moist soil, fall sod gives your lawn a strong start before winter and an even stronger comeback in spring.

Reach out to B&B Hoffman Sod today at 763-434-6572 to place your order or ask questions before the season officially wraps up! Your best lawn may be just a few fall days away.



Prepare Your Lawn for Winter: B&B Hoffman Sod’s Guide to Cold-Weather Lawn Care

As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, it’s time to give your lawn a little extra care before winter sets in. Winterizing your lawn properly helps protect your grass from cold weather damage and sets you up for a greener, healthier lawn next spring. Whether you recently installed all new sod or you already have an established yard, a few simple steps can make all the difference.

Keep Mowing 

As the growing season slows, continue mowing your lawn until it stops actively growing. (Sorry, you’re not off the hook yet!) Gradually lower your mower height in the final few cuts, but never cut more than ⅓ of the height at once or you could cause stress to the grass. Shorter grass helps prevent snow mold and other winter diseases while keeping your lawn looking neat before the snow arrives.

Pro tip: Aim for a final cutting height of about 2 to 2.5 inches.

Rake and Remove Leaves

Fallen leaves can suffocate your grass and trap moisture, creating the perfect conditions for mold and pests. Rake up or mulch leaves regularly to allow your lawn to breathe before it goes dormant. A clean yard now means a stronger lawn in the spring.

Feed Your Lawn One Last Time

Late fall is the ideal time to fertilize. A slow-release, nitrogen-rich fertilizer helps strengthen grass roots and store nutrients that carry your lawn through winter dormancy. This fall feeding gives your sod a head start once temperatures warm up again.

Pro tip: You can purchase the same high-quality fertilizer we use on our farm!

Water Until the Ground Freezes

Your lawn still needs water, even as the weather cools down. Keep watering your grass until the ground freezes to help your sod store moisture and nutrients before winter dormancy. If you’ve installed new sod this fall, maintaining consistent moisture is especially important for root establishment.

Pro Tip: Don’t blow out your sprinkler system too early! If you’ve already shut down your irrigation system, make sure to hook up a garden hose and sprinkler to make sure your lawn is properly watered before going dormant for the season.

Avoid Heavy Traffic on Frozen Grass

Once your lawn freezes, it becomes more fragile. Try to limit walking or driving on frozen grass to prevent breaking grass blades and compacting the soil. If you have pets or kids, consider setting up a designated pathway to protect your turf during the snowy months.

Plan Ahead for Spring

Proper winterization is one of the best ways to ensure a lush, green yard once spring arrives. If you’ve been thinking about adding new sod or repairing bare spots, plan your spring sod order early with B&B Hoffman Sod so you’re ready to roll out fresh, healthy grass as soon as the weather cooperates.

Pro Tip: You don’t have to wait until spring to set up your lawn for success! You can lay sod all the way until the ground freezes this fall.

Give Your Lawn the Care It Deserves

You may think that you’re already done with your lawn care for the season, but a little prep now pays off later. By mowing, fertilizing, watering, and protecting your grass before the freeze, you’re setting the stage for a vibrant, mud-free, and healthy spring lawn. B&B Hoffman Sod is here to help you every step of the way, from installation to long-term care. Visit our website or give us a call at 763-434-6572 to learn more about our premium Kentucky Blue Grass, get fall lawn care tips, and how to prepare your yard for winter.


It’s Not Too Late! Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Lay Sod

When it comes to laying sod, most people think it can only be done in the spring and summer seasons. But did you know that you can successfully install sod all the way up until the ground is frozen? That means late fall (and sometimes even early winter!) is still an excellent time to transform your yard with fresh sod. B&B Hoffman Sod Farm is still open for the season and ready for you to get your lawn ready to look great this spring!

Why Late-Season Sod Works So Well

As long as the ground isn’t frozen, sod can still take root. Cooler temperatures actually help prevent stress on new grass, and with the right care, it will be ready to green up beautifully in the spring. You’ll need access to a hose and sprinkler system, so if you’re planning to sod before the end of the season, don’t blow out your irrigation lines just yet. But don’t worry! If you’ve already shut down your sprinkler system for the season, simply hook up a garden hose and sprinkler to keep your sod watered until the ground naturally freezes.

Avoid the Springtime Mud Pit!

One of the biggest perks of installing sod now is skipping the dreaded spring mud season. If your lawn has patchy spots, that bare soil plus melting snow will bring muddy footprints, messy paws, and endless cleaning. By putting down sod now, you’ll create a stable, grass-covered yard that’s ready to go as soon as the weather warms up (no mud boots required!).

Perfect for Families (and Puppies!)

Thinking about adding a puppy to the family this Christmas? Or do you have little ones eager to play outside at the first hint of spring? Laying sod now means they’ll have a dry, grassy space to enjoy instead of a muddy mess that gets tracked through your home.

Get Ahead of Next Season

Installing sod in late fall is like giving your yard a head start. You’ll avoid the stress and mess of spring seeding, and your lawn will be established and ready for use sooner. So don’t wait until spring! If the ground isn’t frozen, it’s not too late to sod! Call B&B Hoffman Sod at 763-434-6572 and roll out that lush green carpet to enjoy the benefits of a beautiful lawn before the season is over – and to avoid that springtime mud!

How Late Can I Lay Sod in Minnesota?

As summer winds down in Minnesota, many homeowners assume the window for installing sod has closed. But here’s the truth: you can successfully lay sod well into the fall season in Minnesota. Depending on the weather, you can lay sod through October and sometimes even into November, and early fall is actually one of the best times of the year to install! B&B Hoffman Sod is here to discuss how cooler weather and natural conditions set your new grass up for success, so you can enjoy a lush, healthy yard next spring.

Why Fall Is Ideal for Sod Installation in Minnesota:

Cooler Temperatures Mean Less Stress

Unlike the intense heat of summer, Minnesota’s fall weather provides mild, consistent temperatures that are much gentler on sod. This allows the grass to focus on root development instead of battling dehydration and heat stress.

More Reliable Moisture

Fall typically brings more frequent and steady rainfall, which is essential for helping sod take root. Combined with cooler weather, this reduces how often and how much you’ll need to water, saving both time and effort while ensuring proper establishment.

Fewer Weeds to Compete With

Luckily, weeds naturally slow down in the fall. This gives your sod a head start, so it can grow strong without being crowded out by dandelions or crabgrass.

Healthy Soil Conditions

By autumn, Minnesota’s soil has cooled from the summer heat, creating the perfect environment for sod roots to establish. Cooler soil not only encourages growth but also helps reduce the risk of disease that thrives in hot, humid weather.

How Late Is Too Late to Sod in Minnesota?

The general rule is simple: as long as the ground isn’t frozen, you can lay sod. Most years in Minnesota, that means sod installation is possible well into October and sometimes even in November. The earlier you install, the better chance your sod will have to develop roots before winter. Don’t worry if winter shows up unexpectedly before your sod takes root! Sod will go dormant and take off in the spring. 

Pro tip: Keep in mind you will need a water source if you choose to install sod late in the season. November can still be warm enough to have to water and mow, so if you’ve already shut down your irrigation system, make sure to manually water your new sod!

Tips for Successful Fall Sod Installation

  Timing: You can lay sod through October and into November so long as the ground isn’t frozen! Since you never know what the weather will bring, aim to lay sod early to mid-fall. 

  Prepare Your Yard: Remove debris, level the soil, and loosen compacted areas for better root contact.

 Water Regularly: Even in cooler temps, sod needs consistent moisture to take hold. Don’t rely only on rainfall; Make sure your sod gets adequate watering until it’s established.

  Limit Foot Traffic: Keep kids, pets, and heavy use off your new sod until you’ve mowed it at least once. 

  Work with a Professional Sod Supplier: High-quality sod makes all the difference. That’s where B&B Hoffman Sod comes in.

By following our installation and maintenance advice, your sod will take root and look amazing! B&B Hoffman Sod is available to help answer any questions regarding your new sod. Call us at 763-434-6572 or send us an email. We’re happy to ensure your lawn always looks its best!

Pro tip: October is the ideal time to winterize your lawn with a nutrient-rich fertilizer. B&B Hoffman Sod sells the same premium fertilizers we use on our own farm, so you can make sure your lawn will continue to look lush and green long after installation.

Get Your Minnesota Sod Installed Before Winter

Don’t wait until spring! Fall sod installation in Minnesota gives your yard a head start for next season. By laying sod now, you’ll avoid the heat stress of summer, minimize weed competition, and ensure your lawn is ready to turn green and vibrant the moment the snow melts.

B&B Hoffman Sod has been helping Minnesota homeowners and businesses with high-quality sod for decades. Whether you need to install sod for a new build, refresh a tired lawn, or repair problem areas, fall is the perfect season to do it. Contact us today at 763-434-6572 to schedule your sod installation before the ground freezes. Your lawn will thank you come spring!



How Does Your Lawn Survive Winter?

Winter can be a tough time for your lawn, especially in cold climates like Minnesota. As the temperatures drop, your once lush, green lawn will turn brown and seem bare, and you might even wonder if it’s dead. Fear not! This natural process is known as dormancy—a survival mechanism that helps your grass survive the cold winter months. Let’s take a closer look at what happens to sod during winter and why dormancy is actually a good thing for your lawn’s health.

What Is Dormancy and How Does Grass Prepare for Winter?

Dormancy is when plants and grass slow their metabolic processes to conserve energy and survive harsh conditions. The dormancy process is crucial for survival in regions with cold winters (like here in Minnesota). As the weather cools, grass enters a state of rest where growth stops, and resources are conserved until warmer temperatures return in spring. This process is a natural defense mechanism, allowing grass to survive freezing temperatures and snow cover without needing to actively grow.

What Happens to Grass in Winter?

As winter sets in, the energy needed for new shoots or leaves is reserved. During the dormancy period, the grass may turn brown, but the roots remain alive and protected underground. Though the grass blades appear dormant above the soil, the root system continues to stay active—although at a much slower rate—ensuring that the grass can “wake up” when the weather warms up in spring.

The Role of Snow as Insulation

Love it or hate it, Minnesota typically gets a decent blanket of snow each winter. Snow isn’t just pretty (or annoying if you’re the one who has to shovel); it actually plays a vital role in protecting your lawn during the winter months. As snow accumulates on your lawn, it acts as a natural blanket, insulating the soil and helping to maintain more consistent soil temperatures. This protection prevents the roots from freezing solid, allowing them to remain viable through the colder months. Snow cover also helps to buffer temperature extremes, which can be especially beneficial during periods of thawing and refreezing.

Common Misconceptions About Dormant Grass

Many homeowners worry when their grass turns brown or seems to die off during the winter. It’s a common misconception that dormant grass is dead. In fact, brown grass is completely normal and is simply a sign that the plant is conserving energy and preparing to survive through winter. Dormant grass may appear lifeless, but it’s just taking a break! As long as the grass has been properly cared for leading into winter, it will rebound once the weather warms up. The key to a healthy lawn is making sure it’s well-prepared for dormancy by having strong roots going into the season. (Pro tip: See our previous blog posts for useful lawn care tips!)

Your Lawn Will Bounce Back in Spring

While your lawn may look brown and barren during the winter, dormancy is a necessary survival strategy. With the right care and preparation in the fall, your sod will emerge in the spring refreshed and ready to grow again. The roots will still be intact, and when temperatures rise, the grass will come out of dormancy, refreshed and ready to green up again. And don’t worry – when it’s time to wake your grass from its winter nap, B&B Hoffman Sod will be here with tips to make it lush and green!



New sod and lawn care.. In November?

The sprinklers may have been shut off or put away, and we have already had our first snow of the season, but it’s not too late to install new sod or to winterize your lawn. While that might sound crazy to some, B&B Hoffman Sod has tips for making sure your lawn is ready to look amazing once the snow melts in the spring.

It’s not too late to install new sod!

You might think that November is too late to install new sod, but yes – it is still possible to do this before winter! As long as the ground isn’t frozen and the temperatures cooperate with your plans, you can still install sod. Although roots may not establish this fall, they will in the spring. Keep in mind, you will still need a water source… think garden hose and sprinklers if you’ve blown out your sprinkler system. Contact B&B Hoffman Sod at 763-434-6572 to see if you can install our premium Kentucky Blue Grass before the snow flies!

Winterize the right way
  • Cover bare areas: If you’re not able to get your new sod installed before the ground freezes, make sure to cover the mud now rather than deal with it in the spring. Your floors will thank you once the snow melts and you’re not constantly cleaning up muddy paw prints or messes from kids playing outside in the warmer weather.
  • Mow one last time: Before you store the lawn mower for the winter, cut the grass short to prevent mold, fungus, or other threats to your lawn (and your allergies!). Long grass provides a cozy home for voles, mice, or other creepy crawlies to hide. Rodents and insects cause damage to lawns with their trails and holes, not to mention feasting on bulbs like tulips or irises. 
  • Use a winterizing fertilizer: Using a winter-specific fertilizer will ensure your lawn gets the nutrients it needs during the long, cold winter months. B&B Hoffman Sod sells the same fertilizer we use on our sod farm available for purchase. Contact us to ask about our fertilizer options. 

For more lawn care tips, explore our previous blog posts for all things sod, grass, and fertilizer! If you would like to get sod before winter, reach out to us at office@bbhoffmansod.com or by calling 763-434-6572 to see if installing this fall is still possible for your lawn.

Fall Lawn Prep: Winterize the Right Way

It’s autumn in Minnesota – time for beautiful weather, brightly colored trees, and pumpkin spice everything. Folks are able to enjoy their valuable weekends at apple orchards or football games instead of spending their time on lawn care. Before you put away the mower for the season, B&B Hoffman Sod is here with tips to keep your yard in tip-top shape over the winter.

Don’t Forget the Tuna Can! (Yes, you read that right!)

Before you put away the hose or blow out your sprinkler system, remember that despite cooler temperatures and the many rainy days Minnesota had this past summer, your lawn still needs water. A healthy lawn needs approximately an inch of water per week, especially if it is less than three years old. It is best to water very deeply once a week—or twice a week if we are enjoying unseasonably hot weather. New sod needs watering everyday with the drought we are currently experiencing. 

One way to make sure your lawn is getting enough moisture is to set out empty tuna cans. To ensure you are watering the right amount, place empty tuna cans in the areas where you are sprinkling. When there is about an inch of water in the can, you’ll know your lawn has gotten enough moisture to get into the roots and stay healthy. 

Feed Your Lawn With Fertilizer

Who doesn’t like a bedtime snack? Mid-October is a great time to start putting winterizing fertilizer down. Winterizer gives your yard a boost of nitrogen for your grass to store through the winter while it’s sleeping under the snow. This nitrogen will help your yard be one of the first on the block to turn green once spring arrives. Be sure to water it in since we are not scheduled to get any rain for the next few weeks.

B&B Hoffman Sod has the fertilizer your lawn needs for each season available for purchase at our farm. Call us at 763-434-6572 to reserve your bags in time to feed your lawn for the winter.

For more information on how to care for your new sod or general yard care, explore the B&B Hoffman Sod website! We have a ton of tips for watering, lawn care, installation, and more!