Here are some essential tips for sod maintenance.
A healthy, thriving lawn doesn’t happen overnight; it’s all about giving your sod the proper care at the right time. Watering too much or too little, neglecting seasonal upkeep, or letting weeds take over can turn your dream lawn into a patchy mess. But with the correct maintenance, you can keep your grass fresh, full, and ready for your outdoor plans.
From smart watering techniques to adjusting your care routine with the seasons, here are the best ways to maintain your sod and protect your investment.
Caring for Your Sod After Installation
The days and weeks after laying new sod are critical. New sod needs extra attention so that its roots can settle into the soil. Water the sod well within the first hour after installation to prevent the grass from drying out.
During the first couple of weeks, water your new lawn every day if the weather is warm. Aim for a steady, gentle watering that keeps the soil moist without flooding it. Too much water can cause fungus or root rot, so watch for signs of overwatering. Also, try to keep people and pets off the fresh sod. Keeping foot traffic to a minimum helps the grass establish a solid root system.
Once your sod has taken hold, you can slowly cut back on the watering. As the roots grow stronger, your lawn will need less water and become more resilient against heat and dry weather.
Use Fertilizer to Feed Your Lawn
Fertilizing your sod helps it grow strong and resist stress. A simple soil test can help you choose the right fertilizer mix. Most lawns need a balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring that helps your grass wake up after winter. Later in the summer, a second application can boost your lawn as the heat sets in. Always follow the instructions on your fertilizer bag, and avoid adding too much at once. Over-fertilization can cause rapid, weak growth that is harder to maintain.
Adjusting Care with the Seasons
Every season brings different challenges and tasks for your new sod.
In the spring, focus on refreshing your yard after the winter. Light feeding and some overseeding can give your lawn a boost. This period is also a good time to check for any winter damage and repair it as needed.
Summer calls for careful watering and mowing. Heat can stress your grass, so adjust your watering schedule to give your lawn enough moisture. Raising the mowing height slightly during hot days helps shade the roots and keeps the grass cooler. Watch for signs of heat stress and adjust care routines accordingly.
In the fall, prepare your lawn for the coming winter. Aerate the soil to relieve compaction and add a layer of topdressing if necessary. A fall feeding can help strengthen the roots, giving your sod a better chance to survive the cold months. Remove fallen leaves and debris regularly to prevent mold and fungus.
Get Your Yard Ready for Spring!
Since our inception from a humble 30-acre field to over 4,500 acres of turf grasses, Quantico Creek Sod Farm is now the LARGEST SOD FARM IN THE TRI-STATE AREA. Our service areas cover Pennsylvania, Maryland, DC Delaware, Virginia and Northern North Carolina. Order early and order often to ensure the best service possible. Contact us through our online page. Please find us at 27616 Little Lane, Salisbury, Maryland 21801. Our phone number is 410-726-6103, and our fax number is 410-742-6550. Speak to Jason Anderson for Turf Grass Sales. Reach him by email at jason@quanticocreeksod.com. Finally, follow us on social media on Facebook, LinkedIn, and our blog.