1) From sod farms. And there are many. Sometimes box stores sell sod however it has a very short shelf life and I wouldn't invest $$ in any sod that wasn't very fresh. 48 hours is the maximum it should sit after harvesting before being laid.

2) Buffalo grass, specifically UC Verde buffalo grass, is an ideal drought tolerant traditional lawn substitute. UC Verde was formulated specifically for California gardens.

Thank you! Any list of sod farms that you would recommend?

Sorry, I don't live in CA so none to recommend specifically. Not that it makes much difference......if they are growing the type of sod you want, no reason NOT to purchase from them.

Just Google for local sod farms to see what's out there.

You do realize that California is a pretty big place. I might recommend one in Calexico and then you'll tell us you live in Yreka.

Once you find a sod farm near you, call them and ask who the nurseries are nearest you who buy the most of the sod you are interested in. I found a nursery that sells 14 pallets per day of St Augustine. That's the kind of freshness you want in sod. That nursery sells their sod for just about 1/3 the price of Lowe's and 1/2 the price of Home Depot. The box stores generally sell 5 pallets per week...if that. So for me it was easy to justify the easy drive to the nearby dealer rather than the 300 mile round trip to the sod farm.