Most homeowners want a lush, green look for their lawn, and laying new sod is one of the quickest ways to turn that vision into reality.
Sod is pre-grown grass that comes in rolls or squares. Because it already has an established root system, it is a convenient option for an instant transformation (unlike seeding, which can take weeks to establish). With proper care, sod not only establishes quickly, but also helps to minimize erosion and suppress weeds, making it a popular choice for a number of reasons.
That said, a new sod lawn requires proper care to give it the best chance to thrive. Here is what you need to know to help your new sod grow into a seamless, healthy lawn.
1. Prepare the soil properly.
The foundation of any successful sod installation is well-prepared soil. Before laying sod, ensure the ground is free of weeds, rocks, and debris. Loosen the top 2-3 inches of soil with a rake or tiller, and then add a layer of compost or soil conditioner to improve nutrient content and drainage. Testing the soil’s pH levels can also help you lay sod with confidence; sod typically thrives in a slightly acidic to neutral pH range (6.0-7.0). If the pH is too low (acidic), you can raise it by adding lime to the soil. If the pH is too high (alkaline), applying sulfur or organic materials like pine needles can help lower it.
Taking steps like these to properly prepare the soil ensures that sod roots can establish quickly and effectively.
2. Lay the sod correctly.
How you actually lay the sod plays a significant role in its ability to establish. Start by laying the first row along a straight edge, such as a driveway or sidewalk. This will establish a solid guide to work from. From there, stagger the seams in subsequent rows (think of laying bricks). Do your best to avoid leaving gaps between pieces, as this can allow weeds to grow or lead to the grass drying out.
After laying the pieces, use a lawn roller to gently press the sod into the soil. This helps eliminate air pockets and ensures better root-to-soil contact, encouraging growth.
3. Water, immediately and consistently.
Water is the secret to getting new sod to take well. Immediately after installation, water the sod thoroughly, wetting the soil to a depth of 6-8 inches. During the first two weeks, keep the sod consistently moist by watering 2-4 times daily, depending on weather conditions. Avoid letting the sod dry out; this will prevent proper root development into the soil.
After the first two weeks, gradually reduce the frequency of watering but increase the depth to continue to encourage deep root growth. If possible, water your sod early in the morning, as this is ideal for minimizing evaporation and reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
4. Avoid walking on the newly planted sod.
New sod is delicate and requires time to establish roots. As much as possible, limit foot traffic on your lawn for the first 2-3 weeks. This will help prevent dislodging the sod or damaging the still fragile roots. If you absolutely need to access certain areas, consider using planks or boards to distribute weight evenly across the grass and minimize damage.
5. Fertilize wisely.
You should absolutely fertilize your new sod, but pay attention to your timing. Many sod farms pre-fertilize their products, so you may not need to fertilize until about 4-6 weeks after installation Choose a balanced fertilizing product with a focus on nitrogen, which will encourage growth and greening. Avoid over-fertilizing, since this can lead to excessive top growth without adequate support for root development.
6. Keep an eye out for weeds and pests.
Like most plants, new sod is especially vulnerable to weeds and pests during its establishment phase. Weeds can emerge from the soil beneath the sod or from seeds blown in by the wind, so it’s nearly impossible to guarantee that you won’t have any. During the first few weeks after planting, you should hand-pull any weeds, since herbicides may harm the sod.
Pests such as grubs or sod webworms can also pose a threat. Signs of infestation would include yellowing or patchy grass. Consult a lawn care professional if you think you might be dealing with these pests.
7. Mow to the right height, at the right time.
Mowing too soon or too short can damage new sod. Wait until the grass reaches about 3-4 inches in height before mowing for the first time. Use a sharp mower blade and set it to cut no more than one-third of the grass height. Cutting too short can stress the sod and expose the soil to excessive sunlight, promoting weed growth.
Once your sod is more established, you will want to mow it regularly. This will encourage lateral growth and help the lawn become more dense over time.
8. Aerate and overseed if necessary.
Once the sod is established (usually after a full growing season), consider aerating the lawn. This process involves creating small holes in the lawn using a mechanical aerator or manual tool, allowing essential elements like water, air, and nutrients to reach the root zone more effectively. Aerating also helps combat soil compaction, improving soil structure and encouraging healthy root growth.
Additionally, if you notice any thin or bare spots of grass, overseeding can help fill them in so you can enjoy a lawn with a more even, uniform look.
9. Be patient.
It’s true that sod offers a “shortcut” to a green lawn as opposed to seeding. Still, it takes time for the roots to fully establish, and you may have to wait several months (depending on the grass type and your climate). Stick to a consistent routine that adapts to seasonal changes (e.g. more water in the summer). Resist the urge to rush the process. Utilize tools like timed watering systems to help you stay on top of lawn maintenance.
If you have questions about how to care for your sod in your specific climate, a local landscaping company, nursery, or hardware store can be a valuable resource.
Maintaining a new sod lawn requires effort and attention, especially during the critical establishment phase. With the tips outlined above, you can set the foundation for a thriving lawn and enjoy the lush, green grass you’ve always dreamed of.
