Few things are more satisfying than watching the blanketing of fresh laid sod across a barren yard. Whether you did the job yourself or hired a professional for your sod installation, it is imperative that you know how to care for it immediately after it is laid. In fact, neglecting new sod for even a day or two can sabotage your turf investment and render your labor in vain.
Get the Hose!
If you learn anything about new sod care, know this: it’s nearly impossible to over water it. In fact, you should bring out your hose immediately after your sod has been installed and rolled. Your sod is perishable, so once it has been given its home in your yard, it needs a deep watering (soaking) to help it get rooted or established. You should aim for irrigating about six inches into the ground or until it is soggy to walk on.
In the first 14 days after installation, you’ll need to continue the deep watering so that the soil stays moist throughout the entire day. This could mean as much as 5 or 6 sprinklings per day. Make sure you adjust your irrigation system to account for the extra moisture and correct location of your grass.
Stay Off!
It can be tempting to send your kids outside to do cartwheels on that nice green carpet of sod that was just laid. However, it’s best to avoid foot traffic on new sod for the first two weeks, or after the first mowing.
Mow High!
Unless it is winter, your new sod should be ready for its first mow after 14 days. Mowing high is best because it is least stressful to the new sod. Aim for mowing no more than 1/3 of the grass blade.
Call a Sod Care Specialist
At Lawn in Order, we are fully equipped to install several types of new sod for your Atlanta landscape. In doing so, we always educate homeowners on the best way to care for their fresh grass once it is laid. Our lawn care experts will make sure your sod gets the irrigation and attention it needs to thrive. If you notice signs of problems, such as bluish-gray spots, mushroom patches or turned-up edges within your new sod, please call us promptly.
