SOD Care
Stauffer Lawn & Landscape
Early Sod Care
Day 1 Watering
After your sod is installed, check it within a few hours by walking across the surface. If your footsteps leave deep impressions, the moisture level is sufficient. If the ground feels firm, lift a corner of the sod to inspect the soil beneath—it should be damp to wet. If it feels dry, water the area for at least 30 minutes to ensure proper saturation.
Days 2–5 Watering
Inspect your new lawn at least once daily, and more frequently during hot, dry, or windy conditions. Walk across the lawn and assess moisture levels. If the ground feels overly soft, leaves deep footprints, or has standing water, it is overwatered—pause watering and reduce frequency. If the soil feels firm, lift sections of sod to confirm that the soil underneath is moist but not overly saturated or dry.
Signs of insufficient watering include wilting grass, a straw-like color, or gaps forming between sod pieces. If these occur, increase watering frequency. With prompt correction, under-watered sod can often recover within about a week. Warmer temperatures (above 80°F) typically require more frequent watering, while cooler temperatures (below 60°F) require less. During spring and fall months, watering needs are generally reduced.
Ongoing Watering
After the first five days, the soil should retain moisture more effectively, and watering should be gradually reduced. Overwatering can prevent roots from establishing properly, so begin spacing out watering intervals. Once the sod is fully rooted, most lawns only require watering about once per week.
Mowing
Begin mowing when the grass reaches an appropriate height. Avoid watering right before mowing to prevent footprints or damage to the turf. Follow long-term mowing guidelines for best results.
Fertilization
Wait at least three weeks after installation before applying fertilizer. After that, follow a consistent fertilization plan suited to your lawn’s needs.
Herbicides
Avoid using crabgrass preventers or herbicides for at least one year after installation to allow the sod to fully establish.
Long-Term Sod Care
Mowing
From May through mid-September, maintain a mowing height of approximately 2½ to 3 inches. As temperatures cool from mid-September through November, gradually lower the mowing height to about 1½ inches for the final cut of the season.
Clippings
Grass clippings can typically be left on the lawn unless they are excessively long and may smother the turf. Clippings help return nutrients to the soil and do not contribute to thatch buildup.
Watering
Overwatering is a common issue, especially with automatic irrigation systems. Most lawns only require regular watering between June and early September. During this time, lawns may need about 1½ inches of water per week, depending on soil type, rainfall, and root depth.
Water based on soil moisture—not a preset schedule. The soil should be dry to a depth of about 5 inches before watering again. When you do water, apply enough to thoroughly soak the soil to that same depth. This encourages deep root growth and improves drought resistance.
You can check soil moisture by inserting a screwdriver or garden tool into the ground. Watering times will vary depending on your irrigation system, so testing and adjusting your schedule is important. While lawns can be watered at any time, early morning is ideal. Avoid late afternoon or evening watering, as prolonged moisture on grass blades can increase the risk of disease.
To learn more about sod care, call Stauffer Lawn & Landscape for a consultation.
