When should I install an irrigation system?

We recommend installing an irrigation system before laying sod. Doing so ensures that you won’t have to disturb newly installed grass to put in the system, and your new sod will get the necessary water from the start. If you install the irrigation system after the sod is laid, you risk damaging the roots and may cause uneven patches.

What is the best grass type for Central Florida?

St. Augustine sod is the best choice for Central Florida due to its adaptability to the region’s climate. Here’s why it excels:

• Heat tolerance: It thrives in Florida’s hot, humid conditions.

• Moderate shade tolerance: Ideal for properties with both sun and shade.

• Dense growth: Its thick, lush blades create a visually appealing lawn.

Other types like Bahia and Zoysia are also used in certain situations, but St. Augustine is the most commonly recommended for its performance and ease of maintenance in residential and commercial settings.

How often should I water my grass?

Newly installed sod:
Watering at night or very early morning is crucial because the cooler temperatures and reduced sunlight mean less evaporation. This gives the water time to soak into the soil and reach the new sod’s roots, which are still developing and need moisture to establish firmly. That’s why we recommend watering between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. in the first few weeks of installation. Here’s a breakdown of the watering schedule:

• Week 1: Water three times a day (3 a.m. to 12 p.m.) for 15 minutes per zone. This keeps the top layer moist without over-saturating it, which can hinder root growth.

• Weeks 2-3: Water once daily in the early morning (5 a.m. to 7 a.m.) for 30-45 minutes per zone. The roots are developing, so longer, deep watering is necessary.

• Weeks 4-5: Water every other day between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. for 30-45 minutes per zone. By now, the roots are established, but the soil still needs consistent moisture to support growth.

Alternatives:
If watering at 1 a.m. is impractical, the best alternative is early morning (between 5 a.m. and 7 a.m.) as temperatures are still cool, and water evaporation is minimal. Watering in the evening is discouraged because the lawn may remain wet overnight, which can foster fungal growth and disease.

Established lawn:
Once your lawn is fully rooted (around the 5th week), you can scale back to watering twice a week, ideally between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m., for 30-45 minutes per zone. This ensures deep watering, encouraging roots to grow deeper and become more drought-resistant.

When should I fertilize my lawn?

Once your sod is firmly rooted (around 4-6 weeks), it’s time to fertilize. Fertilizing too soon can disrupt the rooting process, so patience is key. You should begin with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to promote healthy growth without overwhelming the new roots. Avoid “quick-fix” fertilizers, as they can cause excessive top growth before the roots are fully developed, leading to an unhealthy lawn.

For winter installations, wait until the spring greening to fertilize, as the sod will be dormant and won’t absorb nutrients effectively.

Benefits of good fertilization:

• Promotes strong root development.

• Encourages lush, green growth.

• Helps the lawn resist diseases, pests, and drought.

Failing to fertilize properly can result in a weak lawn that is more susceptible to pests, diseases, and drought stress, and may lead to uneven growth or yellowing patches.

How and when should I mow?

You can start mowing your new sod around the 5th week, once it's firmly rooted. Set your mower height between 3.5 to 4 inches. Mowing too short (scalping) weakens the lawn, making it vulnerable to pests, diseases, and drought. On the other hand, letting it grow too tall can harbor insects and create an uneven appearance.

• Why mowing height matters:
  Cutting grass at the right height helps the roots grow deeper, leading to a healthier, more drought-tolerant lawn. Scalping causes stress to the grass, resulting in browning and weak spots, while mowing too high can block sunlight from reaching the lower blades.

• Mow regularly:
  Once established, mow the lawn regularly to maintain the desired height and appearance.

How soon can I walk on my new sod?

After installing new sod, it’s important to avoid walking on it for 2-3 weeks. This allows the roots to settle without disruption. Walking on the sod too soon can disturb the root system and cause the sod to shift, leading to uneven growth or bare patches.

Once the sod is established (after the 3rd week), you can allow light foot traffic, but avoid heavy use until the lawn is fully established after about 5 weeks.

How can I prevent lawn diseases in my new sod?

Preventing diseases starts with proper watering and drainage. Overwatering or watering late in the day can leave the lawn susceptible to fungal infections, while underwatering can stress the sod and cause yellowing. Ensure your irrigation system provides deep watering at the right times to avoid excess moisture sitting on the grass.

• Good lawn care practices:

  • Regularly monitor your watering schedule.

  • Avoid walking on the sod while it’s wet to prevent compaction.

  • Mow at the correct height to allow airflow between the blades, reducing the risk of fungus.

Neglecting proper care can lead to diseases such as brown patch, which can spread quickly and severely damage the lawn.

How can I tell if my new sod is getting enough water?

New sod should feel damp but not soggy. To check, gently lift a corner of the sod; the soil underneath should be moist but not waterlogged. If the sod is drying out, you’ll notice curling edges or yellowing, which means you need to increase your watering.

What happens if I don’t water my sod properly?

If sod doesn’t receive enough water during the critical rooting stage, it will fail to establish properly. This leads to dry patches, yellowing, and increased susceptibility to disease and pests. Conversely, overwatering can lead to root rot and fungus, damaging the sod.

What are signs my lawn might have a disease?

Common signs include:

• Discolored patches (yellow or brown spots).

• Mushrooms or other fungi growing on the lawn.

• Thinning grass or bald patches.

If you notice these symptoms, it’s essential to adjust your watering and consult a lawn care professional for treatment options.