Installation & Maintenance

Preparation
  • We recommend tilling the desired area at least 2 inches in depth prior to sod installation.
  • Rake the tilled area out evenly and as level as possible. Some areas with existing turf may need to apply round up to the area prior to tilling. If round up is applied please wait 7-10 days after last application before installing new sod.
  • Pro Tip: In extreme heat for best results dampen the area with water prior to installation.
Installation
  • When installing new sod start green side up!
  • Lay sod in a shiplap or brick pattern.
  • Make sure there are no gaps in between the pieces of sod.
  • Pro Tip: Make sure all flower beds are in place prior to installing sod.
Watering
  • Newly installed sod should be watered immediately after install and kept moist. This may require watering 2-3 times a day for the next 7 to 21 days.
  • Your sod may have not been watered enough if it is starting to turn brown or yellow anywhere in the lawn, starts to wilt or shrivel, this is a sign of stress.
  • Sod that is installed in shady areas should not be watered as much as full sun areas.
  • Pro Tip: Sod installed on sandy soil may require more water because water drains quicker through sand
  • Too much water can cause sod to turn brown, create fungus, or cause the roots to rot.
  • Please use your discretion in watering your sod being careful not to overwater or underwater your lawn as each lawn is different.
  • Pro Tip: Sod installed in late fall or winter months will require little to no water after installation.
Maintenance
  • Your newly installed lawn can be mowed as long as you can go to the corners and not pull them up. This usually takes about 2-3 weeks in growing season.
  • New lawns can be fertilized after you have mowed your lawn at least 3-4 times and is 100% green if purchased while dormant. (See Our FAQ page for specific fertilizer recommendations for the variety of sod you have.)
  • Pro Tip: When applying fertilizer or chemical please use neccessary precautions and read all directions clearly and carefully on package label!)
  • Mowing height depends on the variety of sod you have. Mowing frequency depends on rate of growth, Rate of growth is determined on temperature, moisture conditions, season and the natural growth rate of your specific sod type. (See Our Farm Page for specific mowing height recommendations for the variety of sod you have.)
  • Weed prevention is possible with a pre-emerge in the late fall or late winter while the grass is dormant. We do NOT recommend applying pre-emerge on new lawns within a year of installation.
  • Please consult your local landscape professional for the best advice for your lawn.