Sod is perishable, so be sure to lay it down immediately. Follow it up with deep watering as heat can build up within a roll, damaging turf. After rolling, start irrigation six inches down into the soil until it’s soft to walk on.
While it’s tempting to use your lawn right after installation, you have to ensure that the sod has taken root. In other words, your lawn cannot have heavy foot traffic and activities until the root system establishes properly.
2 Weeks After Installation
On the first few days, your newly installed sod is like a baby that needs delicate care and observation. In addition to this guide, it’s always best to understand your sod’s variety so that you can take care of your lawn better, even in the years to come. If your lawn has already been there for years and you’re planning to replace your turf because you suspect your lawn is dying, click here to try reviving it.
So, here are some tips on caring for your newly installed sod to ensure it flourishes:
1. Water your sod at least once every day for 15 minutes. If your sprinkler gives off lighter water spray, increase it to 20 minutes. If you’re in a region with an average temperature of 65 degrees each day, water your sod twice daily.
If you’re unsure that you’re giving enough hydration to your sod, lift a corner of the sod and inspect the dampness on the underside.
2. Never mow your lawn for the first two weeks. Your new sod should root 10-14 days after installation. This is when you should mow your lawn for the first time, except for winter, which takes longer (20-30 days). Set your mower’s setting to the highest you can to avoid cutting it too close to the root.
When mowing, be extra careful not to walk heavily or run on your new sod, so you don’t prevent the fragile young roots from developing properly. If you have pets, prevent them from having so much contact with the newly installed sod.
3-4 Weeks After Installation
1. Reduce the frequency of watering. After each mowing, gradually decrease your watering frequency to every other day while increasing the minute per watering to 30-35 minutes. Less frequent soakings help roots grow deeper and establish more quickly into the soil. Lift a corner of the sod to check if the root has been established. If it doesn’t pull up easily, the roots are forming well.
2. Start fertilizer application after a month of installation. The question is, “what fertilizer is best for sod?” In general, you need a fertilizer that provides sufficient nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to the soil for the sod to perform well. Make sure to follow the brand of your choice’s directions and label.
You need to consider the variety of your sod when taking care of your lawn in the coming months and years. As you know, some types require fewer fertilizers than others, such as centipede grass.
Finding the Right Sod Variety
All homeowners dream of a lush green lawn, and choosing the right sod is vital to achieving it. In fact, laying down your sod is easier than deciding which type survives in your garden. Generally, you have to consider the climate, soil condition, sunlight exposure, water requirements, and foot traffic.
If you have pets or small children, go for a sod not easily damaged by heavy foot traffic, such as Zoysia or Bermuda grass. Bermuda is also one of the most popular options for athletic lawn owners since it thrives well in either shade or full sunlight. Plus, it’s more disease-resistant and greens up in early spring.
Moreover, take note that pet urines contain too much nitrogen that destroys your lawn. Fescue grass may be the perfect fit since it’s very absorbent and can handle dogs’ pee, even the big breeds’. Determine if your garden has acidic soil since no other types of grass can withstand it, except for centipede grass.
Finally, find turf producers, such as the Turfgrass Group, that provide tested and well-researched turfgrasses.
