Genetic purity and preservation of the Sapphire St. Augustine variety is of primary importance to Sod Solutions. Only turfgrass producers licensed by Sod Solutions are authorized to grow Sapphire for sale. All licensed Sapphire production is monitored by Sod Solutions through ongoing quality control and quality assurance programs. Sod Solutions has developed the most comprehensive St. Augustine quality control system in the country.

To ensure optimum quality and performance of Sapphire, users must implement proper care and maintenance. This care and maintenance has been formalized in the Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Sapphire St. Augustine. These BMPs are written as a guide and should be modified as local climate, soil, and environmental conditions dictate. It is important to note that no “magic fertilizer” or “super chemical” will solve all problems or make any turfgrass perfect. Through consistent application of the BMPs and on-going evaluation, education, and modification of these practices, however, users will greatly enhance the quality and performance of Sapphire St. Augustine. The described maintenance information also applies to many semi-dwarf St. Augustine grasses. It is recommended that users identify the specific variety of St. Augustine being utilized, and that information be gathered pertaining to BMPs for that cultivar.

Installation and the care taken during the initial days that follow are the most critical factors in determining the long-term quality and performance of any turfgrass, including Sapphire St. Augustine. Harvesting and transplantation are extremely stressful to turfgrass and precautionary measures should be taken to help reduce further cultural and environmental stresses. Sapphire is a tough, hardy turfgrass that, once established, produces a beautiful lifetime lawn and landscape. Proper care, including pre-installation soil preparation and limiting time on the pallet to less than 24 hours, yields positive results (see Installation). Improper care, especially during the initial 24-hour period after harvest, can cause death of the turfgrass or damage that results in lengthy recovery and additional expense. This potential damage is magnified during hot, humid months. An installation procedure that is acceptable during cool weather may cause extensive damage during hot weather for any St. Augustinegrass.