Installing a fresh lawn of sod can instantly give your yard a lush, green appearance. However, the work doesn’t stop once the sod is laid. Proper sod care is crucial for the first several weeks while the sod takes root and becomes established. One important question for new sod owners is when you can mow the lawn for the first time.
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When can you mow new sod?
The general guideline is to wait about 10-14 days after laying new sod before mowing it for the first time. This gives the sod time to root sufficiently so it won’t be disturbed or ripped up by the mower blades. Trying to mow too soon can damage the sod.
What happens if you mow too soon?
Mowing new sod before the roots have grown deep enough can pull up or rip the sod. The sod needs time to knit itself to the soil below so it stays firmly in place when mowed. Mowing too soon may create bald spots or gaps in the lawn if the sod hasn’t anchored yet. Wait until the recommended 10-14 days unless the sod company advises otherwise.
Can you mow closer the first time?
For the first mowing, keep the cutting height higher than usual. Set the mower blades to about 3 inches for the initial cut. Mowing too short, such as down to 2 inches, can put extra stress on new sod. Keep the height slightly taller and gradually lower it over subsequent mowings as the sod continues to establish itself.
Signs the sod is ready for mowing
How can you tell when the sod is ready for that first haircut? Here are a few signs that indicate your new lawn is ready for mowing:
- The sod has rooted firmly into the soil. Gently tug on a corner piece to check it doesn’t pull up.
- The sod seams are filling in as the grass grows together.
- The color has faded slightly from green to blue-green as the grass matures.
- The sod feels firm underfoot when walked on.
- Wait the recommended 10-14 days unless otherwise advised.
Tips for mowing new sod
When the big day finally arrives, keep these sod mowing tips in mind:
- Mow when the sod is dry to avoid tearing or shifting pieces.
- Set the cutting height high, around 3 inches, for the first mow.
- Keep mower blades sharp to cut cleanly rather than rip the grass.
- Mow in different directions each time to avoid ruts.
- Walk gently and avoid pivoting on new sod.
- Remove no more than a third of the grass blade length at a time.
Ongoing sod lawn care
Mowing is just one aspect of caring for new sod. Here are some other important sod care tasks:
Watering
New sod needs frequent watering for at least two weeks until established. Water enough to keep the top 2 inches of soil moist. After two weeks, gradually taper back to about 1-2 times per week depending on weather. Let the sod dry out slightly between waterings to encourage deeper root growth.
Fertilizing
Applying starter fertilizer supports sod growth and establishment after installation. Follow product instructions for when and how much to apply. Avoid high nitrogen formulas which can burn young sod. Follow up with regular fertilizer about six weeks later.
Weed control
Hand pull weeds early and often to prevent them from gaining a foothold in new sod. Most weed killers cannot be applied until after three mowings or about four weeks. Spot treat weeds rather than broadcasting if you need to use a chemical weed control.
Insect and disease control
Monitor for any signs of insects such as chinch bugs or diseases such as brown patch in new sod. Treat promptly if detected. Healthy, vigorous sod has the best defense. Good cultural practices strengthen grass against pest problems.
When to call the sod company
Despite proper care, sometimes new sod fails to thrive. Call the sod company if you notice:
- Extensive browning or dieback of the sod
- No new roots forming two weeks after installation
- Large gaps or seams failing to fill in
- Sod coming up when gently pulled on
Replacing damaged areas quickly gives the new sod a better chance of success. The sod company may offer free replacement of sod that fails to take root properly.
Conclusion
Mowing new sod too soon before it has rooted can damage the tender grass. Follow the sod company’s advice for when to mow, usually 10-14 days after installation. Use care when mowing new sod the first few times until fully established. Proper mowing technique along with watering, fertilizing and weed control will get that new lawn off to the healthiest start.