HOW TO CARE FOR NEW SOD: 5 FAQS ANSWERED
How to care for new sod. There are a few things to keep in mind. These things can help when it comes to the best way to ensure your new lawn is able to thrive. From moisture to aeration, our experts answer your most frequently asked questions. They weigh in on various techniques about sod maintenance. These techniques are proven to help your yard stay rich and beautiful for years to come.
1. HOW MUCH SHOULD I WATER NEW SOD?
Consistent watering is the key to ensuring new sod is able to grow strong roots. Sod that is applied during the summer should be watered throughout the day. This will prevent shrinking and drying. You should water your lawn enough at least two weeks after installation to ensure moisture. Also, you should continue to water it for an additional two weeks to prevent it from drying out.
2. HOW LONG SHOULD I WATER NEW SOD?
New sod should be watered for a minimum of 45 minutes immediately after installation to allow both lawn and soil to gather moisture, which will help with the rooting process. During the first couple of weeks following installation, each watering session should last approximately 15-20 minutes are a minimum of two days.
3. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE NEW SOD TO ROOT?
Your new sod should root within 10-14 days of application. This is also when you should mow your new lawn for the first time after laying SOD. Be sure to set your mower to the highest setting possible in order to avoid cutting it too close to the root. Take care not to walk or run on new sod, as this can prevent the fragile young roots from developing properly. If you have pets, try to prevent as much contact with the newly installed sod as possible.
4. SHOULD I FERTILIZE NEW SOD?
Certainly! New lawns thrive with the application of quality fertilizer, which works to help create and maintain a sustainable root system that will keep your yard rich for years to come. Liquid fertilizers tend to work best for new sod. They are able to penetrate the surface of the soil to help condition the area beneath the surface.
5. THE BEST TIME OF DAY TO WATER NEW SOD?
If your schedule allows, watering your lawn in the morning or late evening is ideal. For instance, if you water your lawn in the afternoon during the warmest part of the day, it can cause the water to evaporate rather than be absorbed. A lack of moisture can prevent soil from retaining nutrients your lawn needs. If budget allows, consider investing in a timed sprinkler that can be set to dispense the optimal amount of water at the ideal time of day.
