New sod instantly transforms your property and increases your home’s value. Once you lay sod, specific tasks need to be done for a thriving lawn that establishes roots and continues to be healthy. Today’s blog will break down the timetable of watering your new sod, so keep scrolling.
Day of Laying New Sod
Before you install sod, you mustn’t overwater or do it right after a storm. Muddy conditions are not suitable for laying sod and can cause algae and fungus to develop. With the initial watering, you should soak the sod and hydrate the soil — preferably by frequent light waterings three times a day during the hottest months. For example, the first watering should be around 45-60 minutes, depending on how hot the day is. For pop up irrigation heads, aim for 45 minutes, 60 minutes for rotors.
Water your lawn at least two more times the same day for approximately 15-20 minutes each. The lawn must fully absorb the water, but you don’t want it to look soggy. You want it evenly moist, not flooded.
TIP: If you have a large amount of sod you’re laying in one day, consider watering your lawn in large sections; your first few rolls should stay moist, which is essential when it’s really hot out.
Day Two and Following Two Weeks
After the first day, water your lawn two times a day for 15-20 minutes, morning (7:00), and noon. Following the two weeks, shut off the water for a few days to let your soil dry out some so you can walk on it. The goal is not to sink into the ground.
Watering After the First Two Weeks
The best time to water your lawn is in the early morning, before 6:00 (preferably between 4:00-5:00 AM when the sun can’t cause too much evaporation. After the roots take hold, water about 1 ½ inch of water weekly — about ½ inch every other day in hot months. Water about once or twice a week in the spring and fall, depending on weather conditions. You won’t be watering at all in the winter due to snowfall.
Remember to soak the soil when you water and ensure it penetrates to at least 6 inches into the soil; this allows for deep rooting. If your lawn needs water, it will turn from a bright green to a dull blue or gray-green.
Week Three and four
After two weeks, start watering your lawn once a day for around 15-20 minutes, and by week four, you can reduce it to every other day or less, depending on weather conditions.
For Questions, Contact Monarch Sod
If you have recently laid sod or planned to, we invite you to contact us to learn more about our process. We partner with quality sod farms that produce only the best for our customers. Located in Lehi, we serve Utah and Salt Lake Counties with fast and easy service. Get your free quote.
