Bermuda grass is a popular warm-season turf known for its resilience and ability to withstand high temperatures and drought conditions once mature. However, the initial establishment phase after laying new sod requires high dependence on water. Proper hydration during the first six to eight weeks encourages the shallow root system to knit successfully into the native soil beneath. Failing to provide a precise watering regimen during this time can prevent the sod from rooting correctly, compromising the long-term health of the lawn.
Watering Schedule for Newly Laid Sod
The first 10 to 14 days following installation represent the most intensive watering phase for new Bermuda sod. The goal is to ensure the sod and the underlying top inch of soil remain consistently moist, preventing the new roots from drying out. This requires a high-frequency, low-duration approach, often necessitating two to four short watering sessions per day.
Each session should last only about five to ten minutes, depending on the irrigation system. This short duration prevents saturation that could lead to fungal issues. The water should soak the sod layer and the immediate soil surface without causing puddling or runoff. Pay close attention to the edges and seams of the sod pieces, as these areas tend to dry out much faster than the center.
Transitioning to Deep Watering
Once the sod has been in place for about two weeks, the watering strategy must shift to encourage deeper root growth. This transitional phase, typically spanning weeks three through six, involves decreasing the frequency while significantly increasing the duration. The schedule should be reduced to once every other day or every third day.
The duration of the session needs to be long enough to saturate the soil to a depth of four to six inches. This forces the roots to grow downward in search of moisture, establishing a robust foundation. Before transitioning completely, a simple “tug test” can confirm successful rooting: gently lift a corner of the sod, and if it resists pulling up, the roots have begun to take hold.
Long-Term Watering for Established Bermuda
After approximately six to eight weeks, the Bermuda sod should be integrated into the soil and ready for a deep and infrequent watering schedule. Established Bermuda grass requires about one to one and a half inches of water per week during the active growing season. Applying this weekly amount in one or two deep sessions is better than frequent, shallow sprinkles.
Deep watering promotes a strong, deep root system, which gives Bermuda its drought tolerance. When water is applied infrequently, the soil has a chance to dry slightly between sessions, allowing oxygen to reach the root zone. During cooler periods in the fall and spring, the grass’s water needs naturally decrease, and the weekly amount should be reduced.
Practical Checks and Timing
Watering should be scheduled for the early morning, ideally between 4:00 AM and 10:00 AM. This timing allows the water to soak into the soil before the heat of the day causes excessive evaporation. Morning watering also ensures the grass blades dry completely before nightfall, preventing the development of fungal diseases.
To accurately measure the one inch of water your lawn receives, place several empty, straight-sided containers, such as tuna cans, across the watered area. The time it takes to fill the cans to one inch indicates your system’s run time for that volume. The grass itself also provides visual cues for drought stress; grass blades folding in half or developing a slight blue-gray color are indicators that the lawn needs water.