Maintaining Your Sod

Mowing

Sod can be mowed after it has taken a strong root in the soil (it should not lift up when pulled on), which is typically around two weeks after laying. Mowing height should be between 2.5” and 4” and you should not remove more than 1/3 the blade length when mowing.

Mowing grass higher in the heat of summer, along with decreasing mowing frequency (don’t mow if you don’t need to), will keep it healthier and require less watering.

In the fall, gradually decrease (or step down) your mowing height to prepare your grass for winter.

Irrigating

New sod will require more water than established grass. After the initial daily or twice daily watering, and once mowing begins, begin watering deeper and slowly decrease the frequency (weather permitting) to 2-3 times per week. As time goes on, this will promote root growth and improve the grass’s drought tolerance. In following years, the minimum recommended amount is 1” of water per week (increased in very hot and dry conditions).

Fertilizing

Fertilizing can be done around 4 times per year to keep your grass healthy and in the best condition. The holidays are a good reminder/schedule i.e., fertilize around Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Halloween. Ensure grass is watered properly after fertilizing.

Use of a Nitrogen dominant fertilizer is recommended, as this is the primary nutrient required by grasses. Ensure not to over fertilize as it can weaken or damage the grass.

Weed Control

One of the major benefits of sod is that it provides a weed free lawn from the start. When maintained properly, our sod should require very little weed control each year. A healthy, thick lawn will block and outcompete potential weeds as they try to develop, but any that do appear can be picked or sprayed with a selective weed control.