Sod is an excellent way to establish a beautiful green lawn. However, it needs careful care, particularly within the first few months of installing your new lawn. A key part of this care is watering. New grass needs to be watered regularly for it to thrive and develop a healthy root system. If you are starting a new lawn or re-establishing an old one and wondering how often to water sod, you’ve come to the right place.
Water Sod Twice A Day
Knowing how much to water new sod is critical to the successful establishment of your lawn. For optimal results, your new lawn must be watered twice a day for the first two months. Each watering session should be approximately 20 minutes. The best time to water your lawn is in the morning and late afternoon. Avoid watering new sod in the evenings because the lawn will remain damp overnight and create a perfect environment for disease or fungus to grow.
Use a Rain Gauge
It’s a good idea to purchase a rain gauge to give you an accurate reading of how much water your grass is receiving each day. A rain gauge is also a good way to measure rainfall so you can adjust your watering sessions accordingly.
Buy a Hose Timer
A hose timer can help you monitor your sprinkler. You can simply turn your sprinklers on and go about your day knowing that the timer will automatically turn off your sprinklers after 20 minutes of watering. Hose timers are available for multiple zones, allowing you to run several sprinklers at the same time. You can also find options with a Wi-Fi setting, allowing you to control your hose wherever you are.
Check on Your New Sod
Make sure that you are taking the time to inspect your new sod for signs of dryness. If there are some areas where the sprinkler isn’t reaching well, use a handheld sprayer to go over these areas to ensure that they receive adequate water. The first 14 weeks of your new sod are critical, so it’s important to make a habit of inspecting your lawn regularly to address problems early on. Also, remember to avoid walking on your lawn for the first two weeks.
Don’t Overdo It
Although your new lawn needs to receive ample water in the first couple of months, do not overwater your lawn. This can cause the grass to rot and hinder the roots from developing properly. Check to see if there are signs like puddles that your lawn is holding water. If you see any, this means you are overwatering your lawn. Stop watering to allow your lawn to dry out.
Contact Us
A thriving lawn can create a beautiful exterior to your home. Knowing how to care for a new lawn can make a difference in how your lawn turns out. At Sodding GTA, our team of professionals has years of experience in sod installation and care. We’re happy to help you with all your lawn care needs. Call us today for exceptional lawn care service in the GTA.