Post Installation Sod Care Tips

 

 

1. Watering

  • Day 1–14 (Establishment Period):

    • Water immediately after installation.

    • Keep the sod moist by watering 2–3 times daily—morning, midday (if hot), and evening.

    • Avoid pooling or runoff. Ensure a deep soak without oversaturating the soil.

  • Week 3–4:

    • Reduce watering to once daily, adjusting based on rainfall.

    • Focus on deep watering (around 1 inch per session) to encourage strong root development.

  • Week 5+:

    • Transition to watering every 2–3 days.

    • Maintain a schedule of 1 inch of water weekly, including rainfall.

2. Avoid Foot Traffic

  • Keep all people and pets off the sod for 2–3 weeks.

  • Foot traffic can disturb root growth and lead to uneven settling or gaps.

 3. First Mow

  • Wait until the grass reaches 3–3.5 inches in height.

  • Mow to a height of no shorter than 2.5 inches.

  • Use a sharp blade to prevent tearing the grass.

  • Never cut more than 1/3 of the blade length at a time.

 4. Fertilizing

  • Avoid fertilizing immediately

  • Apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10 or 16-16-16) about 4–6 weeks after installation.

  • Continue with seasonal fertilizing during spring, summer, and fall.

5. Weed Control

  • Avoid using herbicides during the first 3 months.

  • For weeds, mow or pull them by hand until the sod is well-established.

  • After the sod develops strong roots, use a selective herbicide if necessary.