SOD

When installing sod, it is crucial to follow the proper process to get the healthiest, greenest lawn. It is essential to follow these steps below to give your sod the best chance for success. 

Days 0-7 - Newly laid sod should be watered within 30 minutes of installation. Apply at least 1” of water so the soil beneath the turf is wet. For the first week, water your sod three times per day with good deep water and avoid walking on your new lawn. To get roots established, deep watering is required; the roots will only grow as deep as the water supply.

Days 8-13 - During the second week after the installation, you should reduce your watering schedule to once a day. Again, make sure this is good deep water. At this point, you can start carefully checking the corner in a couple of sections of your sod to see if the sod has started to take root. Be very careful and do not apply too much force. If the sod does not easily lift, it means the roots are getting established. If your lawn comes up easily but is still lush green, you may be overwatering. If parts of your sod are turning yellow, it could mean you are underwatering, or the sod is in a shaded area and may require special attention. It is vital during this time, if the sod is not properly rooted, to give us a call, and we can help offer some solutions. 

Days 14-21 - During the third week, if your sod is well rooted, you can now reduce your watering to every other day. It is now safe to mow your lawn. 

                    Before mowing:

1. Take a walk around your new sod and pull any weeds before mowing.
2. Set your blade setting to the highest setting available.
3. Do not cut more than 1/3 of the grass when mowing; for example, if your grass is 4”, do not cut lower than 2.8”).
4. Keep your lawn height at around 2.5”-3”.
5. Do not leave any clumps of grass cuttings on your lawn. 

Monthly Maintenance: Your lawn should be fairly established at this point so it can handle normal wear and tear. It would be best if you still watered 2-3 times a week, depending on the weather, as you want to ensure you apply enough water. Fertilizing with a 10-10-10 fertilizer is also recommended around days 30-45.  

Yearly Maintenance: The first winter may be hard on your lawn; that is common. You may see yellowing and burn. If you kept up with your watering when it was first installed, your lawn will bounce back quickly! If your lawn is particularly yellow with a lot of dead grass, you may need to dethatch, aerate, top-dress, seed and fertilize.