Florida is primarily known for its warm climate, sandy beaches, and palm trees, but there is a growing trend in the state that has taken over the agricultural industry – sod production. The influx of people moving to Florida and the steady construction of homes and commercial buildings have both greatly affected the influence of commercial sod production within the state. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of sod production, its ideal location, and the varieties of grass species grown in the beautiful Sunshine State.
Click above to watch the Florida sod farming process in action. Learn more about the growing industry in the article below.
Benefits of Sod Production in Florida
In the production of sod, farmers will grow a solid stand of desirable grass species and then harvest it, fully intact, with a thin layer of soil and roots still attached. Sod is an important component of landscaping and gardening, providing a lush and green lawn in a short amount of time. It is also used in sports fields, parks, and golf courses. With the rise of construction in Florida, sod is in high demand for landscaping new homes and commercial properties.
Ideal Location for Sod Production in Florida
Approximately 14,000 acres of sod are currently grown in Palm Beach County as the dark muck soils of the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) are ideal for growing sod. These muck soils are highly fertile and take up much of the EAA region. The EAA is located in the southern portion of the state and is covered by approximately 500,000 acres of agricultural land, according to the 2023 Lay of the Land Market Report. Its proximity to large markets on both the east and west coasts of Florida makes the EAA an ideal location for sod production. Additionally, the underlying organic muck soils and low topography of the area have protected these sod farms from facing large residential developmental pressure. To learn more about the EAA, the 2023 Lay of the Land Market Report outlines the EAA’s sod industry along with the many other valuable crops that are grown in the area.
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Varieties of Florida Grass Species
Local producers within the EAA grow several varieties of high-quality St. Augustine, Zoysia, and other species of grass. St. Augustine is a warm-season grass that thrives in Florida's climate and is known for its ability to withstand heavy foot traffic. Zoysia is another warm-season grass that has a dense growth habit and requires less water and fertilizer than other grass species. Other grass species grown in Florida include Bermudagrass and Bahiagrass.
Conclusion
To explore the exciting opportunities in the flourishing sod industry, don't hesitate to get in touch with our knowledgeable real estate advisors at SVN | Saunders Ralston Dantzler. Our agents specialize in farms for sale throughout the regions of Florida, Georgia, and Alabama and can provide valuable insights and assistance in finding the perfect property for your sod production venture.
Whether you're looking to expand your existing sod business or embark on a new agricultural venture, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. Our land advisors are experienced in a wide range of real estate transactions and offer services in land brokerage, land management, and property valuation. Contact SVN Saunders Ralston Dantzler's real estate advisors today at 877.518.5263 or visit our website to explore our current farm listings.