Getting new sod for a new lawn can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time, we get it. Time is of the essence when your new sod is delivered, so read through these instructions and prep the soil ahead of installation day. Then follow the instructions below and you should have a healthy, established new lawn in 5 weeks or less!
New Sod Installation Instructions
Your guide to worry-free, fast-rooting new sod
- Prep Soil
Prepare your site before receiving your sod. Learn more in our Soil Preparation Guide.
- Cool Soil & Install Sod
Lightly sprinkle water on the bare soil, as you install your new lawn. This will cool the soil, providing a better environment for new tender roots.
- Spread Fertilizer
Spread BioGrass Suståne 4-6-4 over bare soil to ensure faster rooting and to alleviate transplant shock. One 50lb. bag will cover 2,000 square feet.
- Water Immediately
Using a hose, water each piece of sod within 15 minutes of being laid on the soil. While installing, butt edges and ends of the sod tightly against each other. Do not leave any gaps and do not overlap or stretch sod.
- Start from Straight Edge & Stagger
Start along the longest straight edge, such as a sidewalk or driveway. Stagger the joints in each row in a brick-like pattern. Lay sod lengthwise across slopes to help it retain moisture.
- Cut & Trim As Needed
Use a BioGrass sod knife to cut and trim the sod around objects such as flower beds and sprinklers. Avoid using narrow strips of sod (less than six inches wide) near perimeter areas like sidewalks. These narrow strips will not retain moisture.
- Water 1″ Immediately After Install
Give your new lawn one inch of water within half an hour of completion. When finished, the lawn should be “squishy-wet.” This is the only time you will water the sod to the point of being “squishy-wet.”
New Sod Reminders
Sod is perishable and requires proper care.
- Please install your sod within 12 hours of receiving it.
- Wait to mow your new lawn for at least 10-14 days after installation.
- Keep your lawn moist after installation.
Contact BioGrass if you need more help.
New Sod Care After Installation
Tips to get your new sod established & ready for regular use in 5 weeks or less
- First 3 Weeks: Water Frequently & Stay Off Lawn
Water your new lawn enough to keep it consistently moist throughout the hottest part of the day for the first few weeks. Short, frequent waterings are best. (Shorter for spray heads, longer for impact or rotors.) Keep your new lawn moist, but not soaked.
For best results, stay off your new lawn for a few weeks.
- Adjust Sprinkler Timer As Needed
Change your sprinkler timer according to the demands of your lawn and the environment. Common factors are: wind, rain, sunlight, shade, and reflected light. (sod near concrete or in park strips may require more water, and sod in shady areas may require less)
- Lawn Establishment: 2-5 Weeks
New BioGrass lawn establishment usually takes between 2 and 5 weeks, depending on weather, yard conditions, etc.
Established lawns consume one inch or less of water per week, depending on the type of grass.