New Sod Care Tips for a Lush, Green Lawn in Charlotte, NC

by Lauren Katz
6 min read

Soil testing - Big Visions Landscaping - Charlotte NC

Getting a lush, green lawn after laying new sod requires special care and attention. Proper preparation before installation ensures your sod roots well and thrives. It’s essential to start with quality soil, properly leveled and free of debris.

Watering is a critical step in sod establishment. For the first couple of weeks, keep the sod moist but not soggy to encourage root growth. Be mindful of overwatering, which can lead to root rot and other problems.

Maintaining your new sod involves regular mowing and monitoring for pests or diseases. Fertilize appropriately to give your sod the nutrients it needs to grow strong. With these careful steps, you’ll enjoy a beautiful lawn in no time.

Preparing for Sod Installation

Caring for sod begins with the installation process. Taking the time to test your soil and prepare it for installation will set you up for success. Once you know more about the soil composition on your property, you can use that information to choose the best type of sod for your soil.

Soil Testing and Preparation

Start by testing your soil to understand its pH and nutrient levels. You can use a soil test kit or schedule soil testing with Big Visions Landscaping. Knowing the soil composition helps you adjust it for the new sod.

Once you have the results, you might need to add lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it. Add fertilizer to provide the soil with the right nutrients. Remove any debris, rocks, or old grass. Next, aerate the soil to help the sod roots penetrate deeper.

Level the soil to avoid water pooling after watering the sod. Finally, lightly water the soil before laying the sod. This makes it easier for the sod to root.

Choosing the Right Sod

Choose the sod that’s best for your region, climate, and grass type. Consider the amount of sunlight your lawn gets. Some sod types, like Bermuda grass, need full sun. Others, like Fescue, grow well in shade.

Think about the season. Warm-season grasses like Zoysia do well in summer. Cool-season grasses like Kentucky Bluegrass do better in spring and fall. Check if the sod is fresh by looking at the roots. They should be moist and healthy.

Finally, order from a reputable supplier to get quality sod. Plan to lay the sod soon after it arrives to keep it fresh and viable.

Soil tests - Big Visions Landscaping - Charlotte NC

Maintaining Your New Sod

Providing your new sod with proper maintenance is the best way to help it grow lush and green. Establish a solid care routine to enjoy a healthy lawn all season long. 

Watering Techniques

Watering is the most important part of caring for new sod. You need to keep the soil moist but not soaking wet. Use a sprinkler system to water early in the morning when the temperatures are cooler and evaporation is less likely.

Watering Schedule:

  • Day 1-14: Water daily for about 20 minutes.
  • Day 15-30: Water every other day for 20 minutes.
  • After 30 days: Water deeply twice a week.

Check for drying out by lifting a corner of the sod; the soil underneath should be moist. Adjust the watering schedule in case of rain or extremely high temperatures. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to lawn diseases.

Mowing and Fertilizing

Your first mowing should occur about two weeks after laying the sod, once it has rooted into the soil. Set your lawnmower to a high blade height, about 3-4 inches to avoid stressing the grass.

Mowing Tips:

  • Mow when the grass is dry.
  • Keep mower blades sharp.
  • Do not cut more than one-third of the grass height at a time.

Fertilize the new sod after the first mowing. Use a quality fertilizer high in phosphorus to promote root growth. Liquid fertilizers can be applied evenly. Follow up with regular fertilization every 6-8 weeks.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Be mindful of foot traffic on new sod, as heavy use can disrupt rooting and cause damage. Try to avoid walking on the lawn excessively for the first few weeks.

Watch for signs of lawn disease and pests. Brown patches or unusual spotting can indicate a problem. Use appropriate treatments as needed.

Keep an eye on sprinkler heads to make sure they work properly and cover the entire area. Adjust them if needed for even irrigation.

By adhering to these techniques, you can maintain a healthy lawn and avoid common pitfalls that may impede the growth of your new sod.

Well-maintained sod is just one component of quality landscaping. To learn more about taking your outdoor space to the next level, reach out to Big Visions Landscaping. Call our team directly or fill out our online contact form and we will get in touch with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should new sod be watered after installation?

Water new sod daily for the first two weeks. Ensure soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Morning is the best time to water. Adjust frequency based on weather and soil conditions.

What are the steps to ensure proper care for new sod in winter conditions?

Water new sod less frequently in winter, but make sure soil remains slightly moist. Avoid heavy foot traffic on frozen sod. Use a specialized winter fertilizer to support root growth.

When is the best time to fertilize newly laid sod?

Fertilize new sod about 4-6 weeks after installation. Use a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus. Follow specific instructions on the fertilizer packaging.

Can overwatering damage new sod, and how can this be prevented?

Yes, overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal growth. To prevent this, water only to keep the soil moist. Check for proper drainage and avoid watering during heavy rainfall.

How long does it typically take for new sod to establish roots?

New sod usually takes 2-3 weeks to establish initial roots. Full root development can take up to 6 weeks. Limit heavy activities on the lawn during this period.

What type of fertilizer is recommended for initial care of new sod?

Use a starter fertilizer high in phosphorus for new sod. This promotes root growth and helps the grass establish more quickly. Follow the application rates provided on the packaging.

lauren katz

Article by

Lauren Katz

Lauren Katz, owner of Big Visions Landscaping, brings a wealth of industry experience to her landscape design work. A Certified Plant Professional, Lauren has cultivated her skills through diverse roles at companies like Arborscapes, ABM, and Ivy Creek Landscaping. Originally from Santa Monica, California, Lauren’s passion for nature extends beyond her career. She enjoys hiking, swimming, and caring for her three Netherland dwarf rabbits. Her unique blend of horticultural knowledge and creative vision allows each project to thrive under her careful guidance.

Call Now Button