Question
Hello:

I'll try to keep this short somehow.

I inherited a mismanaged lawn (weeds, dirt and some grass).  I want to till it all up and put down sod.  What sod is good for west texas (Abilene) and that will survive the summer heat/drought here with my help.

For my area what are the best approx. months/temperatures to lay sod.

Last thing: I sent off soil samples to Texas A&M however I still have tree/root issues to deal with.  I have a huge Elm tree with roots above the ground in a completely shaded area where only dirt is prevalent.  Use ground cover to cover the roots and shaded area?

What do I do about the roots from the old mesquite and pecan trees when I go to till my yard?  None of those are above ground but I am sure I will run into them.

The heat that burns everything here to a crisp even with watering (we have water restrictions/days every summer)..is my main worry.  My front yard has 1 pecan tree with full shade(no sun at all under the tree even with it trimmed back) and other side is wide open to sunlight.  

Was thinking of planting a smaller tree on other side but can I have 1 kind of grass that will survive in both shade/full morning sun for front? Backyard is a mix as well of shade/sun throughout the day depending on sun position.

thank you very much for your time,

Lance

Answer
It sounds to me like you need to bring in a few good inches of topsoil (check with local suppliers as to the right type for your area). This will give you enough room for root growth above existing, buried roots, and it'll cover the roots of the Elm tree a bit too.

Then I'd recommend seeding or sodding with Bermuda grass. it's really tough stuff and can tolerate some brutal temperatures and drought. It's a bit touchier in the shade, but give it a try. You can always pick a different species for the shade if it dies off there.

Good luck!

-C.J. Brown