From Rollout to Rooted: How Long Sod Takes to Establish and Key Care Tips?

New Sod? Here’s What to Know

Are you basking in the lush green landscape of your lawn after installing sod? You should be! Sod is a great way to establish a lawn. However, just because you’ve completed the installation process (or had a professional such as Country Green Turf Farms take care of it for you) doesn’t mean your work is over. Here are a few things to keep in mind about your new sod.

Before Installation: Check the Soil

In most cases, the soil needs to be prepared before installing sod. The most effective way to prepare the soil for sod installation is to hire a professional to conduct a soil test. This way, homeowners know exactly how much fertilizer and lime to apply. For homeowners who aren’t familiar with aerating their soil or applying fertilizer, they can hire a professional to handle all aerations and fertilization before installing the sod.

Installation Time: Choose Wisely

While sod can be rolled out and installed nearly any time of the year, there are certain times of the year in which the sod will develop roots more easily than others. For example, autumn is likely the best time for most homeowners to install sod. Autumn is a good time of year because the soil is still warm enough to promote root growth, yet the cool air puts less stress on the roots, allowing them to keep the grass supplied with water. While it’s possible to start your lawn now in mid-summer, you will likely have to water it extensively. Frequent watering is essential to the sod’s health, especially if it’s installed in the summer.

When Does Sod Start to Root?

Sod develops both shallow and deep root systems as it grows.

When Does Sod Develop Shallow Roots?

Your new sod should start to develop a shallow root system in the first two weeks. One of the most important things to remember about new sod is that the short roots should never dry out. The first week is the most critical (longer in the summer) for watering your new sod. If the new sod dries out at any point in the first couple of weeks, the health of your new lawn can be severely compromised.

When Does Sod Develop Deep Roots?

It can take up to six weeks for the sod to develop a deep root system. As the sod develops its shallow root system and moves on to a deeper one, it’s critical to increase the time between waterings to encourage roots to grow deeper in search of moisture without stressing the lawn. At this point, watering the lawn should take longer, since the number of waterings should decrease.

When Can I Mow My Lawn after Sod Installation?

In most cases, your new lawn should be safe to mow about two weeks after installation. However, homeowners must ensure that the sod has developed its shallow root system before mowing the grass. Do not mow any more than one-third of the length of the grass.

Your Sod: Care for the First Year

After the first six weeks, homeowners should gradually increase the time between waterings. This process will help the lawn continue to develop its deep root system, which can reach the moisture and nutrients needed for long-term health and growth.

The 5 Most Common Lawn Mistakes Homeowners Make

Taking care of the lawn is easy when you know what not to do. Avoid these common mistakes homeowners make:

1. Watering Too Frequently

As we’ve mentioned, watering sod too frequently can prevent the lawn from establishing a deep root system. Gradually increase the time between waterings to promote healthy root growth.

2. Mowing Too Short

Another common mistake homeowners make when caring for their lawn is mowing the grass too short. When you cut your grass too short, you deprive your lawn of photosynthesizing surface area. Cutting the grass too short can starve your lawn. Make sure to remove only 1/3 of the grass.

3. Watering at the Wrong Time

Water your lawn early in the morning. Watering your lawn in the afternoon can cause significant moisture loss to evaporation and wind. Additionally, watering your lawn in the evening may promote mold growth. Watering in the early morning allows the grass to dry out throughout the day, preventing harmful diseases and insects from taking hold.

4. Fertilizing Too Much

Another common mistake homeowners make with their lawn is overfertilizing. Always apply fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Too much fertilizer can burn your grass and turn it brown.

5. Leaving Things Out on the Grass

Make sure to clear the lawn every evening. Leaving out items like gardening tools, pools, and other equipment can cause soil compaction, which can affect the grass’s health. Not only will your yard look more organized at the end of the day, but your lawn will thank you!

How Can Country Green Turf Farms Help You?

Since 1988, Country Green Turf Farms has been providing quality turf solutions to Seattle, WA, and the surrounding areas. The knowledge and experience of our staff help you achieve a healthy, lush lawn with our high-quality products and services. Whether you are looking to establish new turfgrass or update your current lawn, Country Green Turf Farms can help. Call us today or stop by our store for expert advice!