Watering is the most important step after installing new sod—but it’s also the one many homeowners get wrong. Too much water can drown roots, while too little causes your new lawn to dry out before it takes hold.

At Texas Sod Pros, we not only install high-quality sod but provide the guidance to keep it healthy. Below is our expert-recommended watering schedule for new sod, broken down week by week to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure strong root growth.

💧 Week 1: Frequent, Light Watering (Days 1–7)

• Goal: Keep the top 1–2 inches of soil moist at all times
• Frequency: Water 2–4 times a day, depending on heat and soil conditions
• Duration: 10–15 minutes per watering session
• Tip: Water early in the morning and again in the late afternoon

Avoid walking on the sod during this time—roots are still very shallow and delicate.

🌱 Week 2: Begin Reducing Frequency (Days 8–14)

• Goal: Encourage roots to start growing deeper
• Frequency: Water once or twice a day, depending on weather
• Duration: 15–20 minutes per zone

Check the sod by lifting a corner—if it resists pulling and the soil underneath is moist, you’re on track.

🌿 Week 3–4: Deep Watering Every Few Days

• Goal: Establish deep root systems and transition to normal watering
• Frequency: Water every 2–3 days
• Duration: 25–30 minutes per session
• Tip: Adjust based on rainfall or heatwaves

You can now begin mowing, but make sure your mower blades are sharp and dry. Never remove more than ⅓ of the grass height in one mow.

✅ Long-Term Watering Tips

Once the sod is fully rooted (around 4–6 weeks), your lawn enters maintenance mode. Follow these tips:

• Water deeply and infrequently—2 to 3 times per week
• Adjust for rainfall, temperature, and soil type
• Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk

If you’re unsure whether your lawn is getting enough moisture, use a screwdriver test—if it slides easily 4–6 inches into the soil, it’s properly hydrated.

🛠️ Mistakes to Avoid

• 🚫 Overwatering—can cause fungus, rot, or root suffocation
• 🚫 Underwatering—leads to yellowing and root death
• 🚫 Watering in the evening—raises the risk of disease
• 🚫 Skipping days during week one—can stall root growth entirely

Why Homeowners Trust Texas Sod Pros

We don’t just lay sod and leave—you’ll receive:

• A custom watering schedule for your yard
• Easy-to-follow care instructions
• Answers to any questions during the rooting process
• Free estimates and expert prep

Our job isn’t finished until your lawn is fully established and thriving.

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