New sod is pre-grown turf harvested in rolls that provides an immediate green lawn but is under severe stress after installation. The established root system is severed, making the turf highly vulnerable to drying out until new roots knit into the underlying soil. Successfully establishing this new lawn requires following a specific care schedule, especially in the initial weeks, to ensure the turf survives and anchors itself permanently. Focusing on hydration, limiting disturbance, and providing nutrients will transition the turf from a temporary covering to a thriving, permanent lawn.
The Critical First Two Weeks: Establishing Root Hydration
The immediate priority after laying sod is to ensure total saturation of both the turf layer and the soil beneath it. Within 30 minutes of installation, the entire area must be watered deeply enough to penetrate three to four inches into the subsoil. A simple check, sometimes called the “squish test,” involves stepping on the sod; the soil should feel spongy and allow water to seep up around your shoe, indicating sufficient moisture. This initial heavy watering prevents the sod from drying out and kickstarts root growth.
During the first 14 days, the objective is to keep the sod and the underlying soil consistently moist, like a wrung-out sponge, to encourage rapid root development. This often requires multiple, short watering cycles per day, sometimes two to six times, depending on temperature and sun exposure. Frequent, lighter applications are necessary because the shallow root system cannot draw moisture from deep in the soil yet. Pay particular attention to edges and seams, especially those near pavement, as these areas dry out faster than the center of the lawn.
If the sod begins to shrink, causing visible gaps between the seams, it is a sign that the turf is dehydrated and the watering frequency or duration needs to be increased. To check for root knitting, gently lift a corner of the sod after about ten days. If it resists lifting, white roots are beginning to anchor into the soil below. If the sod lifts easily, the intensive watering regimen must continue until a firm connection is established.
Moving to Routine: First Mowing and Traffic Limits
Once the sod is firmly anchored and resists being peeled back, typically 10 to 14 days post-installation, the first mowing can be considered. Before mowing, the ground must be dry enough to support the mower’s weight without leaving ruts or tearing the sod. Mowing too early or on wet ground can rip up the unestablished turf and severely damage the new root structure.
The first cut should be performed when the grass blades reach a height of three to four inches. Set the mower deck high and adhere to the one-third rule, never removing more than one-third of the blade length in a single session. Using a sharp blade ensures a clean cut, which prevents unnecessary stress and damage to the young grass.
Concurrent with the first mow, the watering routine must transition from frequent, shallow cycles to less frequent, deeper applications. This change forces the roots to grow downward in search of moisture, establishing a deep, drought-tolerant root system. The schedule shifts to watering every other day or every third day, but for a longer duration to saturate the soil to a depth of three to four inches. Foot traffic should be strictly limited during the first two weeks to avoid compacting the soil and disrupting root establishment.
Long-Term Health: Fertilizing and Pest Management
After the first few weeks, once the roots are clearly established and the sod is firmly knitted, attention can turn to nutritional support. The first fertilizer application is typically safe four to eight weeks post-installation. Applying fertilizer too early, before the roots are properly anchored, can lead to nutrient runoff and potentially burn the tender new grass.
A starter fertilizer with a balanced ratio or one with a higher phosphorus content is often recommended during this phase. Phosphorus (P) specifically encourages strong, deep root development. Slow-release fertilizer formulations are generally preferred as they provide a steady supply of nutrients over time and reduce the risk of over-application.
Weed and pest management on new sod requires caution to avoid damaging the vulnerable turf. Pre-emergent herbicides, which prevent weed seeds from germinating, should be avoided during the establishment period because they can also inhibit the root growth of the new sod. It is best to wait several months, typically three to four, or until the sod is fully mature before applying most chemical weed control products. In the interim, hand-pulling visible weeds and ensuring proper watering and mowing practices are the safest methods for control.