Watering:

• After all the sod has been installed, turn on your sprinklers and let them run until the sod is good and soaked. To keep it that way for the first week water until runoff begins once every few hours at 7 am, 11 am and 2 pm. During the second week water twice a day at 7 am and 2 pm. During the third week water once a day at 7 am.
• Eventually taper back to once every two or three days.
• Adjust according to weather and season - water more frequently during warm/dry or windy weather.
• Generally speaking, as the root system grows deeper, irrigation frequency should be reduced.
• Do not water areas in the shade as frequently as the areas of your lawn that receive full sun.
• Do not water new sod between 8 pm and 4 am. This may create a fungus problem.
• Be sure to watch for a blue-gray tint and limp areas of your lawn. This is not a fungus. It is caused by dehydration and is an indication that immediate watering is needed. This will usually occur on tops of mounds, or areas where sprinkler coverage is not adequate. (It is acceptable to water in full sun, it will not burn the blades.)

• Wait at least 2 to 3 weeks before the first cutting. This timeframe allows the new sod to take root and start to actually grow. This rooting in will also decrease the potential for dislodgment of the sod strips on any type of inclined surface (sod staples are generally used on inclines, but these don't stop movement because of heavy equipment like mowers.)
• Set your mower on a highest setting for the first cutting.
• Once the first mowing has occurred do not mow off more than 1/3 of the length of the grass blades at one time.
• A sharp mower blade is essential - white or yellow grass blade tips are the result of a dull mower. Always remove the grass clippings or use a mulching mower

• Typically, your new sod does not need any additional fertilizer for about three weeks after installation.
• To insure healthy turf and maintain a high fertility level, start off with a program of turf feedings. The time of installation will dictate the correct application rate.
• A slow release or controlled release form of Nitrogen should be used whenever possible, but especially on the spring and fall applications. A fourth application on April Fool's Day may be added if a late fall fertilization was not made.
• Always follow the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Apply lawn food on dry grass only and always water it in after every feeding.
• In addition to fertilizer, limestone should be used every other year after the sod is installed. It is recommended that the soil be tested to determine the proper amount of limestone needed. However, as a general rule of thumb an application of 50 lbs. of limestone per 1000 sq. ft. is a suitable amount. This is best applied in late fall.

Weed and crabgrass control chemicals should not be used until the sod has firmly rooted itself. With good watering and favorable weather conditions, this can occur in 5 to 6 weeks. Before applying any chemicals, read and follow all label instructions.

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