New Sod Care & Information

Watering

This is the most crucial factor in ensuring the success of new sod. The sod must be watered deeply so that the roots of the new grass seek moisture down deep in the ground. Follow this schedule:

First Two Weeks After Installation

Water each new sod area every day for 1 to 2 hours early in the morning, as early as 5:00 a.m., if desired. The water should completely saturate the sod and the soil below. Because the soil will be soggy, avoid walking on the sod at this time.

Third Week After Installation

Water every other day for 2 to 3 hours for one week

Fourth Week After Installation

Water every 3rd day for 2 to 3 hours.

Fifth & Sixth Week After Installation

You should water each new sod area for 3 to 4 hours once a week to get the desired deep watering which forces the roots to seek the moisture deep in the ground as the top surface dries out during the non-watering periods. This deep watering/deep root system growth strengthens the lawn against the possibility of the mild drought often occurring in the Washington, D.C., metropolitan area.

In the Spring and Fall only (NOT Summer) you can count rainfall, if it’s a quarter inch or more, as a watering. Note-It is very important not to overwater: there should be no standing water – you don’t want puddling of newly sodded areas, if the ground will not hold the water.

Mowing

Proper mowing is crucial for maintaining the health and appearance of your new sod. When your grass reaches a height of approximately 3.5 inches, it’s time to mow. Before you start, ensure that the ground has dried sufficiently to avoid causing damage to the turf. Set your mower blade to cut the grass to a height between 2.5 and 3 inches. This height promotes strong root development and helps the grass retain moisture, which is vital during the establishment phase. Always use a sharp blade to make clean cuts and minimize stress on the grass. Plan to mow your lawn approximately every seven days to maintain an optimal height. During periods of hot, dry weather, adjust your mower to a height of 3 inches to provide extra shade to the soil and reduce water loss.

Foot Traffic

Newly installed sod is particularly vulnerable to damage from foot traffic. To ensure that your sod takes root properly and establishes a strong foundation, it’s essential to keep all pedestrians off any slopes or banks that have been sodded for at least one month. This restriction allows the sod to anchor itself firmly into the soil, preventing erosion and uneven growth. If you need to access these areas, try to limit your movement and distribute your weight evenly to minimize impact.

Browning

It’s not uncommon for new sod to turn brown during the first few days after installation. This browning is usually a sign of transplant shock as the grass adjusts to its new environment. However, as long as the sod receives adequate moisture, this is not a cause for concern. Regular watering will help the grass plants establish their root systems and begin producing new leaves. With proper care, the sod will “green up” and develop a lush, healthy

appearance over time.

Weed Control

Weed control is an important aspect of sod maintenance, but it requires patience and timing. Weed killers should only be applied after the sod has been in place for at least three months. This waiting period allows the grass to establish itself without the additional stress of herbicides. Moreover, avoid applying weed killers during the summer months, as the high temperatures can exacerbate stress on the sod and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Regular mowing and proper watering will help keep weeds at bay until it’s safe to use herbicides.

Insects & Diseases

New sod is susceptible to fungus growth, especially during hot, humid weather. Fungus can cause brown spots or patches on your lawn, detracting from its appearance and health. To mitigate the risk of fungus, avoid watering your lawn after 4:00 P.M. as the evening moisture can encourage fungal growth. If you notice any signs of disease, such as discolored patches or unusual growth patterns, it’s best to contact a professional for advice on treatment. Prompt action can prevent the spread of fungus and maintain the health of your lawn.

Fertilizer

Fertilization is essential for the long-term health of your sod, but it must be done at the right time. Do not apply any fertilizer for the first six months after installation to allow the sod to establish its roots without the added stress of nutrient overload. After this initial period, apply two applications at half the normal rate in the spring to give your lawn a gentle boost as it emerges from dormancy. Follow this with a full application in early fall to prepare the grass for winter. Finally, apply a double-rate application in late autumn, which is the most important fertilization of the year. This late fertilization helps the grass build up nutrient reserves to survive the winter and emerge strong and healthy in the spring.

If you have any further questions or concerns, you can call or email our team any time Monday-Saturday. Email us at Service@MWLandscapingInc.com or call (608) 632-0909.