Once the sod is cut into strips, jam the blade of the spade sideways under the sod in short, jabbing motions, lifting the sod as you go and rolling it up like a jellyroll.
Once the sod is cut into strips, jam the blade of the spade sideways under the sod in short, jabbing motions, lifting the sod as you go and rolling it up like a jellyroll. I sit on the ground to do this because it’s easier on my back. The sod will pry up easily. Just roll each strip up as you continue to slice the sod roots beneath it.