How to Care for New Sod

Installing new sod is an exciting step towards a lush, green lawn. However, proper care in the weeks following installation is crucial to ensure the sod establishes healthy roots and thrives. Here's a simple guide on how to treat your lawn after a new sod installation:

1. Water Immediately and Consistently
   After installation, water the sod thoroughly to help the roots settle into the soil. Keep the sod consistently moist for the first two to three weeks, watering it deeply once or twice a day, depending on the weather. Early morning is the best time to water, preventing evaporation.

2. Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic
   Minimize walking on the new sod during the first few weeks. This helps prevent the roots from being disturbed and ensures they have the best chance to establish in the soil.

3. Mow When Ready
   Wait until the sod has rooted well enough into the soil—typically about 2-3 weeks—before mowing. Set your mower at a higher setting, cutting no more than a third of the grass height at once to avoid stressing the sod.

4. Monitor and Adjust Watering
   As the sod establishes roots, gradually reduce the frequency of watering. After the first month, you can switch to watering every other day and then to a weekly schedule, depending on rainfall and temperature.

By following these steps, your new sod will establish strong roots and grow into a vibrant, healthy lawn. Patience and consistent care in the initial weeks are the keys to long-term success.