Dave Greene Estate Care

Newly Sodded Lawns

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1. New sod should be watered twice daily for the first two weeks. The sod should be kept damp.
2. All traffic across new sod should be kept to a minimum as it separates seams and disturbs the underlying grade.

First Mowing:
1. The first mowings can usually occur about 3 weeks after installation or when sod reaches a height of 3” - 3.5” tall.
2. Adjust mower height to approximately 2.5” and be certain that blades are sharp.
3. Do not water the day before mowing as this will mat the new sod.
4. Repeat mowing procedures approximately once a week during the growing season. Do not remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade per mowing.

Weeding/Fertilization:
1.After the first mowing, feed your new sod with a high nitrogen fertilizer. In later years, a pre-emergent should be used in early spring to keep the weeds to a minimum. After approximately two years, you may find it necessary to use a broadleaf herbicide to help control encroaching weeds.

2. At approximately 6 week intervals from April through October, fertilize your lawn with a well balanced (20-10-5) fertilizer at the recommended rate. It is best to fertilize in two directions at ½ the recommended rate to assure proper coverage and overlap. Remember, more frequent, light applications will give better color than less frequent, heavy applications.

General Notes:
Once established, a new lawn will perform better when watered heavily a fewer number of times rather than lightly a greater number of times. This promotes a deeper root growth and healthier strand of grass.

Winter watering is important, especially the first year when the root system may not have fully developed. Water your lawn at least once every four weeks.

As you lawn gets older, you will need aerate it in order to facilitate air movements as well as fertilizer and water intake. We recommend aerating your lawn at least once per year. Depending upon the traffic your lawn is receiving, aeration may be needed as soon as the second year as often as two times per year.