Abstract: Sod cutting apparatus for attachment to an excavating machine such as a backhoe wherein an elongate blade for cutting a surface layer from the earth is positioned substantially parallel to the surface of the earth and at a controlled depth by an appropriate depth control. A cross bar spans the elongated blade and is pivotally connected thereto. The crossbar is detachably connected with a portion of an excavating machine whereby movement of the excavating machine adjacent the surface of the earth moves the depth control across the surface and the blade means through the earth so as to cut a surface layer from the earth. A sheet dispensing mechanism is provided for dispensing sheet material in interposition between the earth and the severed surface layer.