Wilkerson Turf Farms
Sod Installation and Care
Ensure the Best Start for Your New Lawn
Follow our expert tips for installation and ongoing care.
Preparation
Begin with a clean slate. Remove old grass, weeds, and debris. Level the ground and enrich the soil with a starter fertilizer to give your sod the nutrients it needs to establish strong roots.
Laying the Sod
Lay your sod as soon as possible after arrival to prevent drying. Start by laying sod along a straight line such as a driveway or walkway. Fit the pieces closely together, avoiding gaps. Stagger the joints in each row like bricks, and use a lawn roller to remove air pockets and ensure good root contact with the soil.
Watering
Water your new sod within 30 minutes of installation. For the first two weeks, keep the sod and soil moist, watering at least once a day. As roots establish, gradually reduce watering frequency but increase the amount of water to encourage deeper root growth.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Mowing
Wait until your sod has rooted before the first mow—typically two to three weeks after installation. Set your mower to the highest setting to avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time.
Watering
Establish a regular watering schedule based on the needs of your specific sod type. Generally, it’s best to water deeply and less frequently to promote strong, drought-resistant roots.
Weed and Pest Management
Keep an eye out for weeds and pests. Early detection and proper lawn care practices are usually enough to prevent major problems. Use targeted treatments if necessary, following product instructions carefully to avoid damaging the grass.
Fertilizing
Feed your lawn with the right fertilizer for your sod type about four weeks after installation. Continue to fertilize every six to eight weeks during the growing season to maintain lush, healthy growth.
