Sod Care

To ensure your new lawns successful establishment and long-term health, it is crucial to follow these care instructions. Please read this manual thoroughly and feel free to reach out to us if you have any further questions.

1. Watering:

a) Initial Watering: Immediately after installation, water the sod thoroughly to help it settle and make good contact with the soil. Aim to moisten the sod and the top 2 inches of soil.

b) Regular Watering: For the first two weeks, water the sod twice daily—once early in the morning and again in the evening—to keep the soil consistently moist. It is important to avoid watering during the mid-day, especially in summer, as it can lead to burning the grass due to excessive heat and evaporation.

c) Watering Depth: Ensure that water penetrates the sod and reaches a depth of 4 to 6 inches. You can check the moisture level by gently lifting a corner of the sod and inspecting the soil below.

d) Benefits of an Automatic Timer and Sprinkler: We highly recommend using an automatic timer and sprinkler system for watering your newly installed sod. Here are the benefits:

• Consistency: An automatic timer ensures that your sod receives water at the appropriate times, even if you are away or forgetful. Consistent watering promotes uniform growth and prevents dry spots.

• Efficiency: A properly designed sprinkler system delivers water evenly across the entire lawn, reducing water waste and ensuring adequate coverage. It eliminates the need for manual watering, saving you time and effort.

• Timing: By setting the timer for early morning and evening watering, you take advantage of cooler temperatures and lower evaporation rates, maximizing water absorption by the sod.

• Convenience: With an automatic timer and sprinkler system, you can easily customize the watering schedule and duration based on your lawn’s specific needs, ensuring optimal moisture levels for healthy sod growth.

Investing in an automatic timer and sprinkler system is a valuable addition to your lawn care routine, providing convenience, efficiency, and consistent watering to support the establishment and long-term health of your sod.

2. Mowing:

a) First Mowing: Wait until the sod has rooted firmly into the soil before mowing, typically about two weeks after installation. Set your mower blade height to the highest setting and trim no more than one-third of the grass blade’s height. Bag the clippings to avoid smothering the newly established sod.

b) Subsequent Mowing: Gradually lower the mower blade height over the next few mowings to reach the desired height for your turf. Regular mowing is essential to maintain a healthy lawn. Aim to mow when the grass height reaches about one-third higher than the desired height.

3. Fertilizing:

a) Initial Fertilization: Avoid applying fertilizer within the first four weeks to prevent burning the sod. The sod has been pre-fertilized at the time of installation.

b) Subsequent Fertilization: After four weeks, start a regular fertilization schedule following the recommendations provided by a professional or a local agricultural extension service. Choose a fertilizer appropriate for your specific grass type and apply it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Weed Control:

a) First Month: Avoid applying any weed control products during the first month after installation, as the newly installed sod needs time to establish. Hand-pick any visible weeds carefully to avoid disturbing the sod’s root system.

b) Post-Establishment: Once the sod has established, you may use appropriate herbicides or weed control products following the manufacturer’s instructions. Be cautious to choose products that are safe for your specific grass type.

5. Traffic and Usage:

a) Restrict traffic and use on the new sod for the first two weeks after installation. This period allows the roots to develop and anchor firmly into the soil.

b) Gradually introduce normal usage after two weeks, but avoid heavy or concentrated traffic until the sod has fully established.

6. Additional Care Tips:

a) Avoid excessive watering that leads to waterlogging or standing water.

b) Monitor the sod for signs of stress such as wilting or browning, and adjust watering accordingly.

c) If there are any areas of the sod that are not making proper contact with the soil or appear loose, gently press them down to ensure good contact.

d) Regularly remove leaves, debris, and other objects from the sod’s surface.

e) Keep an eye out for any signs of pests or diseases and consult with a professional if needed.

We hope that you find this care instruction manual helpful in maintaining and nurturing your newly installed sod. A lush and healthy lawn awaits you with proper care and attention. Enjoy your beautiful turf!

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us.