How to Take Care of Sod After Installation

Just as a newborn needs immediate care, so does newly installed sod. It’s important to water it thoroughly within the first half-hour of installation, particularly during the dry months of late summer and early fall. An irrigation system could be a vital solution to guarantee consistency. Yet, the care doesn’t stop there. It’s also essential to avoid stepping on the lawn initially and wait at least a week before mowing. As for the first two weeks, the sod requires watering twice a day until the soil is thoroughly drenched. But what happens after the first mow on the 14th day?

Immediate Post-Installation Care

Right after installing your new sod, it’s important to water it thoroughly within 30 minutes, ensuring that the soil about 6 inches down is moist and the lawn feels soggy when walked upon. This vital watering is necessary to prevent damage from the sun and to encourage the sod to take root in its new environment.

It’s best to install sod in the late summer to early fall, when the weather is cooler and the soil is more likely to retain moisture. Using an irrigation system can guarantee that the water reaches all areas of your lawn. However, hand watering isn’t recommended due to the difficulty in achieving uniform coverage. If your lawn is large, consider a professional in-ground system for efficient and even watering.

While the new sod is taking root, it’s crucial to stay off the lawn as much as possible. The grass is still weak and needs time to establish a deep root system.

Mowing shouldn’t occur until about a week after installation, and always with a walk-behind power mower set at a high cutting height. Too much pressure from a heavy riding mower or cutting the grass too short can damage the new sod before it’s fully rooted.

First Two Weeks Maintenance

As the first two weeks following sod installation roll around, it’s important to adjust your lawn care routine to support the new grass’s growth and establishment. During this period, the grass is still weak and needs time to establish a strong root system. Hence, it’s essential to stay off the lawn until after the first mowing, usually around the 14-day mark.

Watering is key during these initial weeks. The goal is to keep the lawn moist, which helps the sod take root. Water twice a day, in the morning and afternoon, until the soil is thoroughly saturated. However, as the two-week mark approaches, begin to cut back on the watering frequency, preparing the lawn for the upcoming changes in care routine.

The first mowing should occur on the 14th day. Use a walk-behind power mower and set the cutting height high. It’s important not to cut more than a third off the grass blades at this time. This allows the grass to establish a strong root system while also encouraging above-ground growth.

Adjustments 3-4 Weeks Post-Installation

Moving into the third and fourth weeks after sod installation, it’s time to adjust your watering habits for the lawn’s continued growth and development. Less frequent watering is needed now, but each watering session should be more extended. This shift encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, establishing a more stable and robust grass system.

However, make sure the soil remains moist down to a depth of about 3-4 inches. This can be checked by pushing a screwdriver or similar tool into the ground. If it goes in easily, you’re doing well. If not, you might need to water a bit more.

Now’s also the time to start feeding your lawn. Fertilizing 3-4 weeks post-installation, using a slow-release Nitrogen fertilizer, keeps your sod healthy and promotes growth. Always water-in the fertilizer after each application to make sure it reaches the grass roots and doesn’t burn the blades.

Essential Tips for Mowing New Sod

When it comes to giving your new sod its first trim, careful mowing practices are essential for ensuring healthy, lush growth. Typically, it’s best to wait until the grass is about three inches tall before mowing, which usually takes about a week or two after installation. Remember, the sod’s roots are still shallow and fragile, so be gentle.

Use a walk-behind mower for the first few mows to avoid damaging the sod with the weight of a riding mower. Adjust the mower’s blade to the highest setting, ensuring that no more than a third of the grass blade gets cut at a time. This prevents stress to the new grass and promotes deeper root growth.

Moreover, it’s important to maintain your mower properly. A dull blade can tear the grass, leading to a ragged edge that invites disease. So, make sure the blade is sharp.

Also, avoid mowing when the grass is wet as it can cause clumping. And remember to change your mowing direction each time to prevent the grass from leaning in one direction.

Mowing new sod requires patience and precision, but with these tips, you’ll be on your way to a healthy, robust lawn.

Fertilizing Your New Lawn

Feeding your new lawn with the right nutrients, especially by using a slow-release Nitrogen fertilizer, is essential for its healthy growth and development. The fertilizer provides the grass with the required nourishment that it mightn’t obtain from the soil, especially in its early stages.

The best time to fertilize your lawn is during the growing season. It’s recommended to feed it 3-4 times, especially in the spring and fall. Specific fertilizer suggestions for holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day are also worth noting. If you missed a late fall fertilization, a fourth application in the spring is advisable.

Applying the fertilizer is a simple task. Distribute it evenly over the lawn and water right after each application. The water helps the fertilizer to penetrate the soil and reach the roots of the grass. However, be cautious not to over-fertilize. Too much can harm your lawn rather than help it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Type of Soil Is Best Suited for Sod Installation?

“He’s best to choose a well-draining, fertile soil for sod installation. It’s important it’s rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic pH. Sandy loam’s often ideal, as it balances moisture retention and drainage.”

How to Handle Sod Installation on Sloped Areas?

To handle sod installation on sloped areas, one should secure it firmly into the soil. They’ll need to lay it perpendicularly to the slope’s direction, using landscape staples. This prevents it from sliding or eroding.

How to Deal With Pests and Diseases in New Sod?

“Who likes pests and diseases in their new sod? Nobody! She can control them by keeping the lawn healthy, well-watered, and fertilized. Regular mowing and aeration also helps keep pests and diseases at bay.”

What Are the Signs of Over-watering or Under-watering New Sod?

When caring for new sod, signs of over-watering include a spongy feel and water pooling on the surface. Under-watering can cause the sod to appear dry, brown and it may start to shrink or pull apart.

What Is the Recommended Mower Blade Sharpness for New Sod?

They advise using a sharp blade for mowing new sod. Dull blades can tug at the grass, potentially uprooting it. Keeping the mower’s blades sharp is crucial for clean, smooth cuts that promote healthy growth.