Sod vs. Seed: Which Is Better for Your New Lawn in Ontario?

Sod vs. Seed: Which Is Better for Your New Lawn in Ontario?

For homeowners in Ontario looking to establish a lush, green lawn, the choice between sod and seed is one of the most important decisions to make. While both methods have their advantages, selecting the right one depends on several key factors including cost, time, maintenance, and long-term goals. Sod provides an instant lawn with immediate curb appeal, while seeding requires more patience but offers customization and cost savings. Ontario’s seasonal climate—with its hot summers, wet springs, and cool autumns—adds another layer of complexity to the decision. Choosing the right method ensures the best possible lawn health and appearance for years to come. This guide compares sod and seed in depth so you can make the right choice for your specific property needs in the GTA or anywhere in Ontario.

What Is Sod and What Is Seed?

Sod is mature grass that has been grown professionally and is sold in rolls or squares, complete with soil and roots. It is essentially “instant grass” that can be rolled out onto a prepared yard surface. Once installed, it takes root and becomes a part of the landscape. Seed, by comparison, is grass seed that’s applied to prepared soil and germinates over time with proper watering and care. Seeding requires patience but allows you to choose the exact variety suited to your yard’s sunlight, soil type, and foot traffic. Sod gives immediate gratification but comes at a higher cost and may struggle to root in poor soil. Each option serves a different purpose depending on how quickly you want results and how much maintenance you’re ready to handle up front.

Feature	Sod	Seed
Installation Time	Immediate	4–12 weeks
Appearance	Instant green lawn	Gradual growth
Cost	High	Low
Labor	More labor-intensive	Less labor-intensive
Grass Type Selection	Limited	Customizable

Cost Comparison: Sod vs. Seed in Ontario

Cost is often a deciding factor. In Ontario, sod installation generally ranges between $2 to $3 per square foot including materials, delivery, soil preparation, and labor. Sod provides immediate results, but the upfront investment is higher. On the other hand, seed is much more affordable, averaging $0.50 to $1.25 per square foot including preparation. However, seeded lawns require ongoing care and may involve re-seeding patches, especially if weather or watering isn’t ideal. If budget is tight but time is available, seed is a cost-effective solution. But if you're preparing a home for sale or want instant curb appeal, sod is well worth the extra cost.

Item	Sod (CAD/sq ft)	Seed (CAD/sq ft)
Materials	$0.50 – $1.00	$0.05 – $0.15
Installation	$1.50 – $2.00	$0.45 – $1.10
Total	$2.00 – $3.00	$0.50 – $1.25

Maintenance Needs of SOD and Seeds: Which Requires More Care?

Sod needs daily watering for the first couple of weeks until it takes root, and regular mowing and fertilizing thereafter. It’s resilient once established but needs early commitment. Seed requires even more attention during its germination phase. Multiple light waterings daily, weed control, and careful monitoring are required until it becomes dense enough to withstand mowing. If neglected, seed patches can dry out, blow away, or grow unevenly. For homeowners who can commit to intensive early care, seeding can produce long-lasting results. But for those looking for simplicity and speed, sod may be the smarter investment.

Task	Sod	Seed
Watering (1st month)	1–2x/day	2–3x/day (light)
Mowing	After 3 weeks	After 4–6 weeks
Fertilizing	After 4 weeks	After 6–8 weeks
Weed Control	Low	High

Climate Considerations for SOD and Seeds in Ontario

Ontario’s seasonal weather has a big impact on lawn establishment. Sod can be laid from early spring to late fall, especially during periods of rain and mild temperatures. It’s ideal for immediate results in cooler weather. Seeded lawns thrive when planted in early fall (August–October) or late spring. Summer seeding is possible but more difficult due to heat stress, high evaporation, and weed growth. If you’re on a strict schedule, sod provides more flexibility. If you’re working within ideal temperature ranges and can plan ahead, seeding offers more control over grass variety and soil adaptation.

Season	Sod Suitability	Seed Suitability
Spring	Good	Fair
Summer	Fair (requires heavy watering)	Poor
Fall	Excellent	Excellent

Conclusion: Which Option Should You Choose?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Sod is best for homeowners who want an instant, lush lawn with minimal wait time. It’s great for front yards, resale properties, and high-traffic areas. Seed, while slower, allows you to build a lawn over time that’s adapted to your soil, sun exposure, and use. It’s less expensive and more customizable, but demands more care during the initial weeks. Many Ontario homeowners choose to sod the front and seed the back as a compromise between aesthetics and budget. Whatever you choose, the key to success is proper soil preparation, consistent watering, and long-term maintenance.

Need help? Contact The Sprinkler Company Inc. for expert sod and seed lawn services in Toronto and the GTA.