TAKE GOOD CARE OF YOUR SOD
Good sod maintenance is important to keep it looking great. Proper installation, regular maintenance, watering, and ongoing care are critical to sod success.
WATERING
Ensure the lawn will flourish for years to come with proper watering. When new turfgrass is installed, take heed of its unique watering needs. Immediate watering after installation will ensure that turf is established well.
Soon after the turfgrass is installed.
Once the new sod is laid on the soil, immediately begin watering until one inch of water has been applied. Get the soil beneath the turf wet at least 3 to 4 inches below the surface.
The next 2 weeks are critical for continued growth.
Until the turf takes root, gently look under one of the corners of the sod to make sure the dirt underneath it is wet. Check daily. This is especially critical during summer months.
Continued monitoring for the turfgrass
Your turf will become more difficult to pull back once it is taking root. That’s a good sign.
WATERING ESTABLISHED TURFGRASS
Most established lawns require 1 inch of moisture per week. Seasonality and soil variation, however, are important factors when adjusting this level.
The grass needs water if:
- You observe a grey-blue grass color
- Footprints are visible after 30 minutes of walking on the grass
INSTALLATION
Any existing weeds and/or grass should be killed, the ground tilled to a depth of 3-4", and all rocks and debris removed. The soil should be raked smooth. Topsoil is recommended either with three or four inches raked smooth.
Place the sod on the soil in an alternating pattern, being sure to break the joints on each consecutive run (like a brick pattern).
Fertilizer can either be placed on the ground under the sod or on top of the sod after it is installed. If placed on top, be careful not to apply it too heavy.
Start watering the grass as sod is continuing to be laid.
DON’T FORGET TO WATER NEW SOD
Once the sod is installed, immediately water the sod. Then, water every day thereafter for at least two weeks.
The first three days sod must be watered to the depth of 3-4" in the soil underneath the sod. The next seven days the sod must be watered until the soil directly underneath the sod is wet. The next few days, the sod must be kept wet and never let the grass wilt.
The sod is established when it is attached to the ground and cannot be pulled up. Watering can be backed off to every other day. In temperatures exceeding 80°, a general-purpose fungicide should be applied to avoid brown patch, etc.
To maintain a plush, healthy lawn, one should get on a 5-step program at the local garden center.
LONG TERM CARE
Mowing
Mowing short all year is bad for grass. Fescue should be mown 3 1/2 - 4 inches all year round.
Clippings
Clippings recycle nutrients to the soil. Don’t collect them unless they are super long and cover the grass.
Watering
Speak with a sod specialist about specific watering needs for the long-term care of the sod. Consider a sprinkler system, a soil moisture sensor, and how the temperatures are affecting the sod’s water needs. Higher temperatures mean more water for the sod, if rain is not in the forecast.
Fertilization
Work with a Sod specialist to find the right fertilization program for the sod. A local garden center can supply the needed products.
FAQ
Request a free quote, get information, or ask for professional advice – call us at
(706) 866-4062.
