Sod Shield: Turf Protection Created by Turf Producers, For Turf Producers

Sod Shield logo

A brand new way of protecting and promoting sod has been introduced to the turf industry by Bethel Farms and Sod Solutions, Inc. Sod ShieldTM is premiering in the United States and abroad as a unique innovation that preserves, protects, and promotes freshly cut sod.

Sod Shield is a unique 5-sided cover that fits snugly over a pallet of rolled or cut sod. It incorporates SureFitTM Technology, which allows for a flexible, secure fit. Sod Shield is constructed from lightweight, opaque co-extruded poly material that blocks excessive light and heat, while retaining optimum moisture levels within the cover. Sod Shields are 100% recyclable.

Sod Shield is manufactured in a standard size of 49”X49”X40”, but size can be adjusted for different pallet sizes. It is designed to be placed over a pallet before shipping, and will:

 

  • Protect the pallet from drying wind and sun during transit and at the delivery destination.
  • Shield the pallet from rain, which adds weight and excessive moisture to the pallet.
  • Decrease the number of loose sod pieces that blow away during transit.
  • Eliminate the need for truck tarps to cover sod.

 

Additionally, since a message can be printed on four sides of the cover, Sod Shield is ideal for promoting a farm or other business while sod is in transit or at the point of sale.

Bethel Farms of Arcadia, Florida originated and developed the Sod Shield concept. The patent is pending.

“Getting your name and brand in the public eye is paramount in our competitive industry,” says Michael Pope, National Sales Manger at Bethel Farms. “In addition, we were looking to enhance our customers’ satisfaction with a concept that would extend the shipping life and quality of our cut sod. The fact we can do both at the same time is a big plus. From the test of our first concept covers we knew we were on to something. When we had an outside manufacturer take one of our early prototypes to market, it was time to legally protect our idea. This product was specially created for our industry. The fact Sod Solutions is the distributor of this product makes perfect sense.”

There has been intense interest in Sod Shield from turfgrass producers who have immediately recognized its benefits, particularly in comparison to the more labor-intensive method of tarping a load of turf to protect it.

“I recognized the benefits of Sod Shield when I first saw a sample,” says Chuck Todd, owner of Circle C Farms in Sumter County, Florida. "This is an effective way to simultaneously protect and promote our turf. We predict Sod Shield will elevate sales and increase customer satisfaction."

Sod Shield is available for ordering by producers around the world. For more information, visit sodshield.com or contact Christian Broucqsualt at Sod Solutions, 843.849.1288.

Bethel Farms is one of Florida’s principal agricultural companies. Bethel operates farms that ship to 14 southeastern and mid-western states. Bethel produces cattle, fertilizer, citrus, nursery plants, sod and grass plugs. Visit bethelfarms.com for more information.

Sod Solutions is a leading developer of improved turfgrass varieties. The company, based in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, has developed and brought to market several improved and commercial successful selections: Palmetto St. Augustine, EMPIRE Zoysia, Celebration Bermudagrass, and Sapphire St. Augustine. The company works with a unique network of licensed turfgrass producers in the United States, Australia and Brazil.