There’s nothing like the look of freshly laid sod. That lush, vibrant green promises a season of barefoot afternoons and instant curb appeal. For homeowners’ proper sod care it is essential to protecting your investment and ensuring your new lawn thrives.
As an Atlanta (including Decatur, Buckhead, Brookhaven, and beyond) landscape and design company, we understand that installing a dream landscape is just the beginning. What comes next, especially in those first few weeks, can make all the difference.
Below is a seasonal guide to help you water your new sod properly and avoid common mistakes that can lead to damage or poor root development.
🌸 Spring
- Weeks 1–2: Water once daily for 10-15 minutes in the early morning.
- Starting from Week 3: Reduce to 3 times per week to encourage deep root growth.
- Goal: The sod should feel evenly moist but never soggy. You shouldn’t sink when walking across your lawn.
☀️ Summer
- Weeks 1–2: Water twice daily. Once in the early morning and again around 2 pm, for 10 to 15 minutes each time. This helps combat heat stress and keeps roots healthy.
- Weeks 3–4: Shift to once-daily watering in the early morning.
- Remainder of Summer: Continue three times per week.
- Goal: Maintain consistent moisture. The sod should stay cool and moist to the touch, but not spongy or pooling.
🍂 Fall
- Stick to the 3 times per week routine, adjusting according to rainfall.
- Cooler temperatures slow down growth, so overwatering is a risk. Watch for signs such as mushrooms or musty odors.
❄️ Winter
- On installation day: Give the sod a light but thorough watering.
- Ongoing care: Water 3 times per week if daytime highs are around 80°F or higher.
- Before the freeze: Lightly water the day before a cold snap to insulate the soil and protect against tender roots.
⛰️ Slope Awareness
Slope areas dry out more quickly. Watering these spots might require shorter, more frequent sessions to avoid runoff and ensure moisture is evenly absorbed. Keep in mind that the base of the slope will retain more water. Adjust your sprinklers accordingly to avoid overwatering lower zones.
🐛 Fall Armyworm Warning
Late Summer to early Fall brings a risk of fall armyworm, which can devastate a newly installed lawn overnight.
Watch for:
- Sudden brown patches
- Caterpillars with white stripes and an inverted “Y” on their heads
- Increased bird activity on your lawn
What to do:
- Treat immediately with a lawn-safe insecticide or contact a professional. Early action is crucial to prevent widespread damage.
- Whether you’re maintaining new sod or envisioning a full garden transformation, thoughtful care ensures your landscape thrives.
- Need help with your outdoor space? We’re here to bring your dream landscape to life — and help it grow beautifully, season after season.
📩 Get in touch with our team at Designed Landscapes and start planning your perfect yard today.
