New Sod? Here’s Exactly What to Do Next

Introduction: You just had fresh sod installed, and now your lawn looks like a lush green carpet—but don’t celebrate just yet. That vibrant turf still has a long way to go before it’s truly “established.” New sod is delicate, and without the right care in the first few weeks, it can dry out, fail to root, or become patchy and stressed. The days following installation are critical for helping your new sod take root and grow into the healthy, long-lasting lawn you’re envisioning. So, if you’re wondering what to do after laying sod, this guide has you covered with exactly what to do, when, and why.

Establishing a Proper Watering Routine for New Sod

Water Immediately After Sod Installation

The most important step you can take right after new sod is installed is to water it—fast and thoroughly. Sod begins to dry out almost immediately after it’s laid, especially in the sun or heat, so don’t delay. The goal is to soak the soil underneath the sod to a depth of 4 to 6 inches, which helps the roots make solid contact with the earth and prevents air pockets from forming underneath. This first watering sets the foundation for the entire rooting process.

Week-by-Week Watering Schedule to Promote Root Growth

Once the initial soak is complete, your focus should shift to keeping the sod moist without overwatering. During the first two weeks, water multiple times a day—usually two to four short sessions, depending on the weather and soil type. You want the sod to stay consistently damp, especially during hot or windy days. Avoid letting it dry out, but don’t flood it either, as oversaturation can cause fungal issues and root rot. By week three, you’ll reduce watering frequency and increase depth, allowing the soil to begin drying slightly between sessions. This encourages the sod’s roots to grow deeper and stronger. By weeks four to five, you can shift to a regular lawn watering routine, typically every few days depending on rainfall, encouraging long-term resilience.

Mowing New Sod Without Damaging It

Wait to Mow Until Sod Has Taken Root

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is mowing new sod too soon. Even if the grass looks tall and ready, resist the urge to mow until the roots have securely anchored into the soil. This usually takes 10 to 14 days, but can take up to three weeks. To test, gently tug on the grass—if it lifts easily, it’s not ready. Premature mowing can rip the sod up and damage the fragile new root system, setting your lawn’s progress back significantly.

Mow High and With Sharp Blades for Best Results

Once the sod has rooted and is ready to mow, make sure your mower blades are sharp. Dull blades tear rather than cut, leaving the grass vulnerable to stress and disease. Set your mower to a high setting to avoid scalping the grass. Never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow. The higher cut provides shade for the soil, keeping moisture levels more stable and helping new roots establish more efficiently.

Supporting Long-Term Health With Lawn Maintenance

When to Fertilize and Use Herbicides on New Sod

While your instincts might tell you to fertilize right away, it’s best to hold off for about 30 to 60 days. Fertilizing too early can stress young roots or encourage fast top growth before the root system is ready. Once the sod is rooted and actively growing, you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote steady development. Avoid using weed control products on new sod until the lawn is well established. Herbicides, even the selective ones, can harm tender new grass. Typically, pre-emergents and other chemical treatments should wait until after your sod has been mowed two or three times and shows strong signs of growth.

Keep Up With Edging and Blowing to Prevent Weeds

While your focus might be on watering and mowing, don’t neglect other aspects of lawn care. Clean edging along driveways, sidewalks, and beds keeps weeds from creeping into your new turf. Blowing away grass clippings and debris after mowing is equally important to discourage fungal growth and prevent seed buildup. These details help protect your investment and create a polished, well-maintained look.

Conclusion:

Caring for new sod takes time, consistency, and patience. The first few weeks are critical, and what you do—or don’t do—during that period will determine how well your lawn performs in the future. From your very first deep watering to your first mow and beyond, every step matters. With the right routine in place, your sod will not only survive—it will thrive, turning into the lush, green lawn you envisioned from the start. If you ever feel overwhelmed or unsure, remember that expert help is always an option. A professional lawn care team can guide you through the process, prevent costly mistakes, and help your lawn establish with strength and beauty. Whether you’re handling it yourself or calling in backup, your new sod is worth the effort—and with proper care, it’ll reward you for years to come. Get in touch with us to learn more about our sod installation as well as our Landscaping, Outdoor Living Spaces & Fire Pits services.