Congratulations on your new sodded lawn. Now the question is, "What now?" The first weeks are a lot like caring for a newborn.
Watering
For days 1 to 10, water daily, about 1 inch per cycle. Measure with a rain gauge in each zone and check that coverage is even, and account for any rain.
Watch for signs of stress: blades that fold or curl, especially along edges, sidewalks and driveways.
Once the sod is established, water heavily every few days instead of lightly every day. Sandy soil needs smaller, more frequent watering. Clay soil needs more water, less often.
Fertilization
Use a fertilizer made for new lawns. The middle number of the N-P-K ratio is phosphorus, which builds roots. We recommend ferti•lome New Lawn Starter 9-13-7. Near established grass, apply a granular insecticide or pesticide and a fungicide.
Mowing
Mow once the sod has rooted, after 10 to 14 days. Do the tug test first. Mow the first time on the highest setting, and take off no more than 1/3 of the blade.
A quick recap
- Water daily, but not at night, about 1 inch per cycle.
- Watch for signs of stress.
- After establishment, water deeply and less often.
- Use a new-lawn fertilizer.
- Apply granular insecticide and fungicide.
- Mow at 10 to 14 days.