How To Water Your Newly Laid Sod And Other Tips
If you have recently laid sod at your home, it's important to take care of it by watering it properly. Without water the sod cannot root to the ground below. If it doesn't take root and doesn't get enough water, it will end up dying, and all of that new sod you paid for will be a waste. Water the sod properly by following the schedule below.
Days 1 & 2
On the first and second day after the sod is laid you should water it until the water actually begins to puddle. You want a lot of water so it can reach the soil below. Water it with your garden hose and a sprinkler so you can cover enough ground. Move the sprinkler around the lawn so you water all of it evenly.
Days 3 & 4
Day three and four you should water the lawn, but not quite as much as the first two days. You'll want it wet enough, but not so much that it actually puddles. Keep an eye on the color of the sod. It should be green. If it's a blue-green color you are watering it too much. If it's brown or yellow there isn't enough water and the roots are beginning to dry out.
Day 5 & Beyond
After the fifth day you'll want to water the lawn every other day, but make sure to keep an eye on the soil below the sod. If it's dry it needs to be watered, but if it's too muddy you need to water it less often. Water the lawn with less water, but multiple times per day if need be.
Other Tips
- Mowing. Your new sod should be mowed when needed, but this usually isn't until a few weeks after the sod is laid. Mow the sod high to begin with to ensure you don't kill the sod.
- Fertilizer And Weed Killer. Sod doesn't require any fertilizer or weed killer after it is laid. If you notice any weeds simply pull them out. Don't try to spray any of the weeds or you could end up killing your beautiful grass. Fertilizer can be used after a few weeks of it taking root if a fertilizer is needed. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on the fertilizer to ensure you use it properly.
- Further Watering. To ensure you water your sod after it has taken root you can install a ground sprinkler system and set it with a timer. This way you don't forget to water it and your sod gets the water it needs.
New sod requires care and maintenance, even after it has taken root. Ensure your sod is long-lasting by following the tips above. Talk to a business like Midwest Turf about other tips to care for your sod.
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