Installing new sod is an exciting transformation—but your job isn’t done once the grass is laid. The first few weeks after sod installation are critical to making sure your lawn thrives.

At Texas Sod Pros, we want your investment to last. Here’s everything you need to know to care for your new sod and avoid common mistakes that could kill your lawn before it takes root.

💧 Week 1: Water Is Everything

New sod must stay consistently moist so the roots can bond with the soil beneath. Here’s your watering plan:

• Water immediately after installation
• For the first 7–10 days: water twice per day, morning and late afternoon
• Avoid overwatering—soil should be damp but not soggy

🚫 Don’t walk on the sod while it’s rooting. The grass may look great, but it’s still fragile.

🌱 Week 2–3: Taper Watering & Check Rooting

Once the sod begins to root (you can gently tug a corner to test), you can reduce watering:

• Water once per day or every other day
• Deep watering encourages roots to grow downward
• Check for dry patches and adjust as needed

✂️ First Mow: Timing & Tips

Your first mow should be around 14–21 days after installation—once the grass reaches about 3–4 inches tall.

• Make sure the sod is dry when mowing
• Set your mower to a high setting to avoid scalping
• Use sharp blades to avoid tearing the new turf

Regular mowing (once per week) helps the lawn grow thicker and healthier.

🧪 Fertilizing New Sod

Avoid fertilizing in the first 3–4 weeks unless recommended during installation. After that, use a starter fertilizer with balanced nitrogen to encourage healthy growth.

• Apply in Week 4–6 depending on sod type
• Avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn new sod

🐜 Watch for Issues

Keep an eye out for:

• Yellowing sod (could mean overwatering or poor contact with soil)
• Curling edges (usually under-watering)
• Mold or fungus (adjust watering and ensure proper drainage)

Texas Sod Pros can help diagnose any early issues and offer tailored care tips.

🏡 Long-Term Maintenance

After the first month, transition into a regular lawn care routine:

• Mow weekly at the correct height for your sod type
• Water deeply 2–3 times per week depending on weather
• Fertilize seasonally based on your grass needs
• Aerate annually and monitor for pests or disease

Let Texas Sod Pros Support Your Lawn Journey

We don’t just install sod—we help you care for it. With every sod installation, we offer:

• Clear watering and care instructions
• Ongoing support and troubleshooting
• Free follow-up estimates for patch repair or touch-ups

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