If you've just had a new landscape or hardscape project completed, the final step might be to repair and re-establish your turf grass lawn. Sod and seed are the most common options to bring your yard back to life.
Both options have benefits and drawbacks, but in both cases you'll want to be sure that proper grading and soil preparation is done for the ground underneath before your seed or sod is installed. This ensures a smooth new lawn and the new turf grass will blend seamlessly with any existing lawn.
Some of the pros and cons for these methods are outlined below - but no matter which option you choose, remember that watering is key to establishing a healthy lawn!
Weeks One - Three.
If you've had sod installed, you'll want to start watering immediately. The sod will be most sensitive during this time, especially if it's installed during hot, sunny weather, so plan to water it 3-5 times a day. Each watering session doesn't have to be very long - consistent moisture is the goal. Keep foot traffic on your sod to a minimum during this time, and do not mow.
Weeks Two - Five.
During this time, you should be able to taper off to fewer daily watering sessions, and can likely begin to add in gap days in between. This process may take longer during hotter seasons, but if your sod is establishing well then by week 4 or 5 you should be able to water only once or twice a day. Ideally after week 4 or 5 you will also be able to start watering every other day, and eventually leaving gaps of 2-3 days.
First Growing Season.
Even once your sod is through the most intensive phase of establishment, it will still need extra care for its first growing season. Keep an eye on the grass blades for any signs of browning or for it developing a pale, silvery tint. These color changes will signal that your sod needs more water than it's getting. Likewise, if you notice gaps appearing at the seams between your sod segments, then the sod is getting too dry.
By its second year, your sod should be treated just like the rest of your lawn.
First Month.
During this time initially after seeding, the area should be watered 1-2 times per day. It's better to water earlier in the day rather than in the evening when possible, and your seed may need extra attention on hot or windy days.
First Two - Six Months.
You'll typically know you can start tapering back on water once your grass reaches mowing height. Let it get a little longer than you typically keep your lawn before you begin mowing. Ideally, you'll hit this stage around 4-6 weeks after you've seeded. This is also when you can begin walking on the area, but still try to keep foot traffic to a minimum. Be careful that the ground is dry enough before walking or mowing on it, so that you don't leave ruts or footprints in the area.
After you've mowed for the first time, you can typically begin watering every other day, and then progressively dropping down to twice per week, then once per week. This transition may take longer if your seed was installed during hotter weather, and always keep an eye on your grass and soil to ensure it's not drying out in between watering.
If you get into the fall season, especially if your seed is still early, be cautious about raking any leaves in the seeded area.
J.R. Thomas Landscaping ~ 10464 St. Rt. 48 Loveland, Ohio 4514 ~ 513-677-4340