Having sod installed on your property is a great way to lay the foundation for a green, healthy lawn. And when you have your sod installed by a professional, you can ensure that it is done correctly and in the proper conditions. This can make a big difference in how your lawn looks days, weeks, and even months after installation. Of course, maintaining and caring for your new sod is just as important. Specifically, there are a few common mistakes you'll want to avoid after you have your sod installed.
1. Mowing Too Soon
Running your lawn mower over your freshly laid sod is one of the worst mistakes you can make. Your sod needs time to take root in its new environment, and mowing before it has taken root can prevent it from growing. Your sod installers will be able to make a recommendation regarding when to mow your own, but in general, you'll want to wait at least several weeks before taking this step. The good news is that while your sod is taking root, it won't be growing very much--so you probably won't have to worry about your lawn growing out of control.
2. Water Too Sparsely (or Too Much)
It takes a couple of weeks for new sod to take root, and during this time, watering the sod properly (and at the right times of day) is vital. You should be watering your sod daily for those first couple of weeks for about an hour at a time. Once the roots become established, you don't need to water as often (or for as long). However, you should still aim to water your lawn as needed, such as during times of drought.
For most types of grass, the best time to water your lawn is during the morning or late in the evening. This is when the sun will be the least harsh, which will allow for maximum water penetration. Watering in the middle of the afternoon when the sun is the strongest is not advisable.
Failing to Fertilize
Some homeowners assume that their brand new sod doesn't need to be fertilized, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Fertilizing your new lawn during the spring and fall is a great way to ensure it gets the nutrients it needs. Your sod installers can help you decide on a fertilizer that is best suited for your specific grass.
You can learn more about sod installation by contacting services like Guerrero Landscape.