Watering New Turfgrass Sod

Water is essential to all life…too little water and we die, too much and we drown. The same is true of the grass in our lawns. Water makes up to 70% to 80% of the weight of our lawn grasses and the clippings alone are nearly 90% water. While most people are concerned about not watering their lawns enough, the fact is that more lawns are damaged or destroyed by over-watering.

The first watering of newly installed sod is the most important. Begin watering immediately after installation of the new grass. The first watering establishes how well the grass will perform for years to come. 

It is essential to begin watering new sod within a half hour after it is laid on the soil. Apply at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) of water so that the soil beneath the lawn is very wet. Ideally, the soil 3 to 4 in. (7-10 cm) below the surface will be moist.

Watering Tip #1: Pull back a corner of the sod and push a screwdriver or other sharp tool into the soil. It should push in easily and have moisture along the first 3 to 4 in. (7 to 10cm), or you need to apply more water.

Watering Tip #2: Make absolutely certain that water is getting to all areas of your new lawn, regardless of the type of sprinkling system you use. Corners and edges are easily missed by many sprinklers and are particularly vulnerable to drying out faster than the center portion of your new lawn. Also, areas near buildings dry out faster because of reflected heat and may require more water.

Watering Tip #3: Runoff may occur on some soils and sloped areas before the soil is adequately moist. To conserve water and ensure adequate soak-in, turn-off the water when runoff begins, wait 30 minutes to an hour and restart the watering of the same area, repeating as needed.

Avoid frequent and shallow watering. Water less often and deep to promote a better root system.