Whether you have a newly built house or the previous owners didn’t take great care of the yard, sod offers a healthy lush option to boost your property’s landscaping. In addition, it provides a dense, lush grass surface that is weed-free and protects the soil underneath from erosion. If you’ve just installed new sod, you should know how to care for it by watering it properly. 

Immediately After Installation

Once the sod is laid, start watering it within a half-hour. Aim for at least 1 inch of water to ensure the soil underneath the sod is saturated. If the climate is particularly dry or windy, make sure the irrigation system is moving frequently across your landscaping, so all areas are covered. Usually, the corners and edges of your lawn are missed, as well as near structures and buildings like sheds. Water two additional times on the first day for 15- to 20-minute cycles. The next day, reduce to two watering cycles—one in the morning and one in the afternoon.

Over the First Two Weeks

During the next two weeks, your new sod should take root, but watering twice a day should continue to keep the soil moist. At least a quarter of an inch of water should be applied. If the area seems to dry out quickly, increase the frequency of watering. You may notice dry spots or curling sections, which means water is needed immediately.

Try to water as early in the morning as possible since there is less chance for evaporation at that time. You are also timing your watering, especially in those first two weeks, to your landscaping’s ideal growing cycle.  

Once the two weeks are complete, let the new sod dry a bit for a day or two so that you can walk on it without sinking or seeing saturation. Be aware of arid weather and high temperatures, and watch for signs that your landscaping is drying out too much. Mow the new lawn regularly for a fresh, healthy look. Resume a watering schedule once a day for 15 to 20 minutes at the start of week three and every other day in week four.

Located in Belleville, IL, Compton Lawn Care is the reliable landscaping company to call for your property’s lawn care services. Their services range from lawn fertilization and aeration to leaf removal, and they also offer power-washing to keep decks, driveways, and siding looking great. For a free quote, call (618) 971-2547. Visit their website for their full list of lawn care options.