Proper watering is crucial for establishing and maintaining a healthy sod lawn. When you install new sod, it’s essential to keep it well-watered to promote strong root development and ensure successful growth. Initially, water the sod deeply and frequently to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid waterlogging. As the sod matures, gradually reduce the frequency of watering while increasing the depth of each watering session. This encourages deeper root growth and helps your lawn become more drought-resistant. Remember, the key to a vibrant and lush lawn is a balanced watering routine tailored to your sod’s needs.
Upon laying your new sod, the most important thing to do is water it. Watering it and knowing when and how much to water is very important. We made a chart below with instructions on when to water and when you can walk and mow on it.
| Sod Type | Notes |
| New Sod | Water 45-60 minutes depending on heat outside. If irrigated, do 45 minutes for pop up and 60 minutes for rotor. |
| After First Watering | water 2 more times same day, each time 15-20 minutes. |
| Day 2 and following 2 weeks | 2 times per day, 15-20 minutes. Recommended times are 8 am and 1 pm. |
| Watering schedule when hot | Water 3 times 80 degrees or hotter watering times should be 8 am, 11 am, 2 pm |
| Important Note | Too much over rwatering creates fungus and algae. |
| After 2 weeks, Mowing Time | After 2 weeks, shut off water for 1-2 days. Let soil dry out then walk on it. If you don’t sink, you can mow. |
| First Mow | Mow your lawn at its highest setting after testing your new sod by walking and not sinking into it. |
| Week 3 | Water once a day for 15-20 minutes |
| Week 4 and onward | Water every other day or less depending on weather |