New Home Care Guide

WATERING YOUR SOD (continued) • During weeks 2-3, cut back the number of runs to once a day. • Week 4 run every other day. • The run times do not need to change, only the number of runs. • This schedule may need to be adjusted according to soil conditions and/or rainfall. ADDITIONAL TIPS • Make sure the sod remains moist but not soggy for at least the first couple of weeks. This will help ensure successful establishment of the new sod. • Do not mow new sod for at least 10 days to 2 weeks, but do not go longer than 2 weeks. • While your new sod is in an actively growing condition, keep mower heights of cut between 2.5” to 3” to encourage deeper rooting.

- TIP - The key to watering your lawn: • Water enough to soak the root system thoroughly • In most cases an inch to an inch and one-half (1 - 1 1/2”) is needed weekly To determine if you’re getting the right amount of water you can measure the amount of water by placing a can under the spray of water from your sprinkler.

ONCE YOUR SOD HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED

• During peak growing season the rule is to mow at least once a week, however, it is not uncommon to need to more frequently. • If there is a build up of clippings make sure to spread them out as this will help reduce water loss. • Do not mow when the grass is wet as this can cause the clippings to clump together and cause brown spots. • If your grass has been damaged by drought or if a mowing is missed and has over grown, raise the mowing deck up. Then 3-4 days later mow again at your normal setting. FERTILIZATION It is important to remember that fertilization is critical to a healthy lawn. Even though the soil contains some nutrients, there are not enough to maintain a healthy vigorous lawn. A typical lawn can be fertilized 3 to 5 times a season as long as the recommended rates (found in the directions on the bag) are followed. To assure a healthy, vigorous lawn apply approximately one pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet per application.

The essential nutrients provided by fertilization are nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium.