Installing new sod is an exciting way to instantly transform your yard with a lush, green lawn. However, proper aftercare is crucial to ensure your sod establishes strong roots and grows into a healthy, long-lasting lawn. At Eddie’s Landscaping, we know that a few simple steps can make all the difference in helping your sod thrive. Here’s a complete guide on how to care for your lawn after sod installation.
1. Watering Your New Sod
Watering is the most important step for establishing new sod. Your sod will need consistent moisture to develop roots and avoid drying out.
• First Two Weeks: Water your sod thoroughly within the first hour of installation, ensuring the soil underneath is moist. For the first two weeks, water daily (or twice daily in hot weather), keeping the soil damp at a depth of about 4–6 inches.
• After Two Weeks: Gradually reduce watering to every other day, depending on rainfall and climate. Your sod will begin developing roots, so aim to keep the soil moist but not saturated.
• Long-Term Watering: By weeks 4–6, water the sod less frequently but for longer durations, encouraging deeper root growth. Once the sod is established, aim for about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, including rainfall.
Tip: Water in the early morning to minimize evaporation and prevent disease caused by prolonged moisture on the grass blades.
2. Avoid Heavy Traffic
Newly installed sod is sensitive and needs time to root. Avoid walking, mowing, or placing heavy objects on the sod for at least two weeks to prevent disrupting the rooting process.
• Keep Off the Lawn: Limit foot traffic, children, and pets on the sod until the roots are well established (around 3–4 weeks).
• Check Rooting Progress: After two weeks, gently lift a corner of the sod. If it resists, roots are developing well. If it lifts easily, continue to restrict traffic and increase watering as needed.
3. Mow at the Right Time and Height
Mowing too soon or too short can damage new sod. Wait until the sod has firmly rooted, typically after 2–3 weeks, before you start mowing.
• First Mow: Mow when the grass reaches 3–4 inches in height, cutting only the top third of the blade. Avoid mowing when the sod is wet, as this can tear the grass.
• Set the Right Height: For most grass types, keep your mower height between 2.5–3 inches, as this promotes healthy growth and root development.
• Use a Sharp Blade: A sharp mower blade ensures clean cuts, reducing stress on the grass and promoting faster recovery.
4. Fertilize for Strong Growth
New sod benefits from a balanced fertilizer to help the roots establish and the grass grow dense and healthy.
• Initial Fertilization: Apply a light, balanced fertilizer 4–6 weeks after installation to give the young grass a nutrient boost.
• Choose the Right Fertilizer: Use a fertilizer specifically for new lawns or one high in phosphorus, which encourages root growth. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations to avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm the sod.
• Seasonal Fertilization: After the first application, follow a regular fertilization schedule appropriate for your grass type and climate to maintain a healthy, vibrant lawn.
5. Control Weeds Carefully
Weeds can compete with your new sod for nutrients and water. However, it’s essential to avoid herbicides until your sod is fully established.
• Manual Weed Removal: Remove any visible weeds by hand to avoid damaging the sod.
• Wait to Apply Herbicides: Avoid using any weed control products until the sod has been growing for at least three months. At that point, use a gentle, selective herbicide if needed.
6. Maintain Regular Maintenance Practices
Once your sod is fully established, around 6–8 weeks after installation, follow standard lawn care practices to keep it healthy.
• Watering: Adjust your watering schedule according to your climate and season, aiming for deep, infrequent watering to encourage strong root growth.
• Aeration and Overseeding: After the first year, consider aerating your lawn annually and overseeding as needed to keep it dense and vibrant.
• Seasonal Fertilization and Pest Control: Continue fertilizing based on your grass type and apply pest control measures as needed to maintain lawn health.