During the first week the sod should be kept moist at all times. In the absence of adequate rainfall, watering should be performed daily or as often as necessary during the first week and in sufficient quantities to maintain moist soil to a depth of at least 4 inches. Watering should be done either in the early morning or in the mid to late afternoon to reduce evaporation.
In the second and subsequent weeks, water the sod as required to maintain adequate moisture in the upper 4 inches of soil, necessary for the promotion of deep root growth. This will need to be done for a minimum of 3-4 weeks depending on weather conditions.
The first mowing should not be attempted until the sod is firmly rooted and securely in place. Use extra care with the first mowing and make certain that cutting blades are maintained in sharp condition. No more than 30 percent of the grass leaf should be removed by the initial or subsequent mowings. Initially this may require every other day cuttings, reducing each cut in ½” increments until the desired maintained height of 2 ½” – 3” is achieved.
Once the sod is fully established, a yearly fertilizer/weed control maintenance program should be set up to maintain a healthy, vital turf grass stand.
