Tips For Watering New Sod in July (Without Wasting a Drop!)

B&B Hoffman Sod’s Guide to Beating the Heat and Saving Your Lawn

It’s July. It’s hot… and your brand-new sod is thirsty. But with rising temps and the occasional watering restriction, keeping your lawn alive (without blowing up your water bill) can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry, B&B Hoffman knows all about how to water new sod in hot summer weather, avoid heat stress, and stick to an efficient watering schedule that keeps your lawn lush and healthy.

How to Water New Sod Without Wasting Water

New sod in July is gorgeous to look at, but it also needs a lot of attention. And while adequate watering is crucial in the first few weeks, there’s no need to turn your lawn into a swamp. We’re sharing our best tips to keep your lawn looking its best without wasting water or blowing your monthly budget. You’re going to need an alarm clock (or an automatic timer) and a tuna can (yes, really), but you’ve got this!

💧 Smart Watering Tips:

  • Water Early*: Start watering at 4 AM and be done watering by 9 AM. Cooler temps = less evaporation and less chance of disease.
  • Use a Timer or Smart Irrigation Controller: Automated watering ensures consistent coverage without forgetting or overdoing it. (And you can skip the 4 AM alarm clock!)
  • Water Deep: Aim for a solid soak, not a light sprinkle. This helps roots reach down for moisture and builds drought resistance. One long watering in the morning is better than several short waterings throughout the day.
  • Avoid Making Pools: If water pools or runs off before it soaks in, split watering into two shorter cycles, 30 minutes apart.

*In areas with water restrictions, check with your city! They often allow new sod exceptions with a permit or temporary variance.

What Heat Stress Looks Like (And How to Fix It!)

If your new lawn starts looking a little crispy, don’t panic! Summer heat is no joke, and sod can show signs of heat stress if it’s under-watered or over-exposed. 

⚠️ Signs of Heat Stress in Sod:

  • Gray or dull blue-green color
  • Wilted or rolled blades
  • Footprints stay visible after you walk on it
  • Dry, crunchy texture when you touch the blades
  • Gaps at the seams between sod pieces due to shrinkage (these gaps will not go away, you want to prevent this with diligent watering)

Quick Fixes:

  • Water immediately and deeply! Soak about 1/2 inch of water on the affected area.  Watering hack: To make sure you’re actually using enough water, use a tuna fish or cat food can to gauge the amount of water getting into your lawn! (We told you you’d need a tuna can!)
  • Stay off the lawn until it perks back up.
  • Avoid mowing until the sod recovers.
  • Resume regular watering schedule once color and texture normalize.

Pro tip: Lift a corner of your sod—if the roots haven’t started grabbing into the soil underneath by Day 7–10, it needs more hydration!

Week-by-Week Watering Schedule for July Sod Installation

On days with 🔥HOT🔥 temperatures, be sure to lay your new sod on the day of delivery. Once your sod is installed, consistency is key! Here’s a general watering plan for new sod in the middle of summer:

💧 Week 1: Establish Moisture

  • Water immediately during installation. Water more than you think you need.. Water so much that water has penetrated through the grass and has saturated the ground underneath.. Water until your lawn is bog-like. And for good measure, give it one last little drink of some more water.
  • Keep the top 1–2 inches of soil consistently moist.
  • Avoid walking on the sod while roots are settling in.

💧 Week 2: Start Deep Watering

  • Water once daily, preferably in the morning.
  • Each session should soak 6–8 inches deep.
  • Roots should start establishing and grabbing hold. (See pro tip above – if you can lift a corner of the sod, water more!)

💧 Week 3: Transition to Normal Schedule

  • Water every other day, depending on rainfall and heat.
  • Keep an eye out for stress signs like wilting or discoloration.
  • Mow only when the sod is rooted and 3–4 inches tall, and never remove more than 1/3 of the blade at once.

💧 Week 4 and Beyond: Maintenance 

  • Water 2–3 times per week, depending on the weather.
  • Early morning watering is still best.
  • Fertilize only if recommended and avoid applying during high heat.

It’s All About Balance

New sod in summer heat requires attention, timing, and a little TLC, but it’s absolutely doable (and totally worth it!). At B&B Hoffman Sod, we grow our premium Kentucky Blue Grass to be as tough as it is beautiful, so it’s ready to root and thrive when you plant it! With smart watering and a watchful eye, your new lawn will beat the heat and thrive all season long.

Need Sod This Summer?

B&B Hoffman Sod grows our premium Kentucky bluegrass locally, cut it fresh, and have it ready to take root on your lawn! Call us at 763-434-6572 for tips, orders, or questions about watering, installation, and lawn care.

Waking Up Your Lawn: Spring Tips from B&B Hoffman Sod

Spring is in the air, and that means it’s almost time for backyard BBQs, outdoor games, and sunny afternoons! Spring also means the winter break from yard work is over. B&B Hoffman Sod has some springtime tips to help your grass wake from its winter nap and start looking green and healthy again. 

Start with a Gentle Rake

Once your yard has dried out a bit and isn’t wet or mushy, give it a light raking* to remove dead grass and debris. This helps get fresh air down to the roots, which encourages new growth and jumpstarts your lawn’s recovery. 

*Pro Tip: be careful not to rake too aggressively while the grass is still waking up—you want to revive it, not rip it out.

Time for Fertilizer

Give your yard a glow up! Fertilizer is a vitamin boost your yard needs to look and feel its best. Applying fertilizer every 4–6 weeks throughout the season* can make a huge difference, helping your grass grow thicker, greener, and healthier than ever. 

*Pro-Tip: April, May, and June are the prime growing months to get the most benefit from fertilizer.

Prevent Weeds With Pre-Emergent

When the ground temperature reaches a consistent 50–55°F, it’s the perfect time to apply a pre-emergent herbicide*. This helps prevent crabgrass and other pesky weeds before they have a chance to sprout. Don’t miss this timing—it’s one of the most important steps for a weed-free yard all season! 

*Pro Tip: Fertilize first, make sure to water well, and apply pre-emergent 4 days later. You can buy the same fertilizers used by B&B Hoffman Sod Farms! Contact us for details.  

Patch Up Pet Damage

Did your homeowners association give you a deadline to fix pet damage to your grass? If your furry friend wasn’t so friendly to your lawn over the winter, we’ve got you covered! We’ll be opening soon for sod pickup, so you can easily replace those worn-out patches and bring your lawn back to life. Our high-quality sod blends in beautifully and gets your yard back in shape fast (and keeps the HOA happy). 

*Pro Tip: If pet damage is minimal but you have some patchy areas that you’d like to seed, we sell the same sod-quality seed used for growing our sod!

Following these tips now will help your yard look its best all summer long! Need help or have questions? Call 763-434-6572 or email office@bbhoffmansod—we’re always happy to help you grow your best lawn yet.



Q&A With B&B Hoffman Sod Farms

If you’re familiar with B&B Hoffman Sod Farms, you may already know that we harvest and deliver high-quality Kentucky Bluegrass Turf in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, & Wisconsin. If you’re new here, we’d love to introduce ourselves! Today, we’re sitting down for a Q&A with Shelly, who, along with her brother Scott, runs B&B Hoffman Sod Farms. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about our story, our work, and what sets us apart.

Q: How long has B&B Hoffman Sod been around? 

A: Since 1989 (which also happens to be the title of one of Shelly’s favorite albums).

Q: How many employees are there? 

A: We have about 15-18 employees during the sodding season, and just 4 in the winter.

Q: What is the process for growing the grass, getting it to the customer, and regrowing it? 

A: We start with preparing the ground, then we move on to planting the seed. From there, it’s fertilizing, tending to weeds, fertilizing (again), mowing, tending to weeds, fertilizing (yes, again), mowing, over and over (and over). We mow each field every other day, and irrigate if Mother Nature puts us in a drought and it’s necessary. 

Q: How long does the process take from planting to delivery to regrowing? 

A: We get 2 crops in 3 years. Our natural, premium Kentucky Blue Grass takes time to perfect!

Q: How long is the growing season? Do people have to wait until late spring or is sod available earlier than our lawns wake up? 

A: When you see things greening up around your home, sod will likely be ready. This could  begin around mid-April or very early May, weather permitting. Have you ever wondered how places like Target Field are green and ready to go in early April when your own grass is still patchy, crunchy, and yellow? Their grass is heated, and we need consistent warmth as well.  In addition, we fertilize our sod fields as soon as we can in the spring to wake it up – earlier than most homeowners fertilize their yards. Think of our premium Kentucky Blue Grass fields as that chipper, energetic coworker you have that woke up early, had all their coffee, did a full workout, and got 3 hours of work done before you’re even out of bed. 

Q: Is your sod treated with any chemicals to make it so green and lush? 

A: It’s so green and lush due to the seed blend* varieties we hand select, along with our best practices, meticulous care, and love we put into growing our product. Plants need love, and the more love you give it, the better it will grow! (Don’t believe us? It’s science!) The mowing we do every other day stimulates root growth AND snuffs out weeds because it’s so thick. Seeding it for each new crop rather than re-growing after it’s been harvested is key! 

* Did you know we sell that same seed blend and the fertilizer we use? Learn more here!

Q: What’s something unique about B&B Hoffman Sod?

A: This is such a hard question! While it’s not uncommon for families to be in the business and for employees to work for you for many years, I do feel like it is becoming rarer these days for people to stay in their family business or for employees to stay with you for that long when there are so many other things to do out there! This kind of longevity truly shows how much we love what we do and how much we love our employees. Knowing that we are growing grass that helps the environment around it and keeps spaces beautiful, and knowing we do it without using harmful chemicals makes me so proud! We’re also immensely proud to give back to our community in different ways. Our reputation (which also happens to be the title of another one of Shelly’s favorite albums) in the community is one we strive to keep as the best!

 

If you’d like to learn more about B&B Hoffman Sod Farms, our premium Kentucky Blue Grass, our fertilizers, seed, our process, how to properly install and care for your new sod, or find a new employment opportunity, reach out to us here!



Natural Grass vs. Plastic: Why Natural is the Better Choice

With news that the University of North Carolina is choosing to go back to natural grass for their football field, it’s a great time to talk about making the choice between natural grass and artificial turf. Choosing between natural grass and plastic grass can be tough, but when you consider the long-term benefits, natural grass clearly comes out on top. From its aesthetic appeal to its environmental impact and health benefits, B&B Hoffman Sod would like to share why natural grass is the smarter choice. 

Authentic Beauty and Feel

Call us biased, but real grass offers a vibrant, dynamic look that artificial turf just can’t replicate. Natural grass changes with the seasons, giving your lawn a rich texture, color, and fragrance. Plastic turf may stay green year-round, but it lacks the organic beauty of a living lawn.

Safer for Sports and Play

Natural grass is a safer surface for outdoor activities, especially for children and athletes. Grass provides a softer, more forgiving surface compared to artificial turf, which can get extremely hot in the summer and cause burns or injuries. Natural grass is shock-absorbing, reducing the risk of sprains and abrasions, making it ideal for sports fields and play areas.

Cost-Effective and Easy to Maintain

While synthetic grass has a high upfront cost, natural grass proves to be more cost-effective over time. It requires less maintenance, and you won’t need to replace it every decade like plastic grass. With proper care, natural grass lasts for years, providing excellent value without the ongoing upkeep costs associated with plastic turf.

Damage to natural grass is simple to fix—whether reseeding or laying down new sod, repairs are quick and affordable. Artificial turf requires costly replacements for damaged sections, making maintenance more expensive in the long run.

Healthier for the Environment and Your Family

Natural grass supports the environment and improves air quality by absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, and promoting healthy soil. Grass also reduces water runoff and prevents erosion. Plastic turf, however, can trap heat and retain harmful chemicals, posing potential health risks to pets and children. Natural grass promotes a healthier, more breathable environment for everyone.

Speaking of the environment, natural grass supports local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies. Artificial turf does nothing for biodiversity and can create a sterile, lifeless environment. If you want to encourage a healthy ecosystem, real grass is the better choice.

When it comes to the overall value, environmental benefits, and safety for play, natural grass is the clear winner. From its authentic beauty to its ability to support sports and outdoor activities, it offers far more than synthetic turf. Whether you’re looking to replace your old lawn or create a beautiful, green outdoor space with our premium Kentucky Blue Grass for your family or business, B&B Hoffman Sod is here to help you every step of the way. Call us at (763) 434-6572 or visit our website to get your green space healthy, safe, and chemical-free for years to come!


Minnesota’s 2025 Ban on PFAs: What Does it Mean for Our Lawns?

As Minnesotans, we take pride in our beautiful outdoors – from the lush green lawns of our backyards to the well-maintained fields where our kids play sports. But did you know that some of the materials we use to create these outdoor spaces could be contributing to an environmental problem that lasts… forever?  In 2025, Minnesota is taking a bold step to protect the environment by banning a group of harmful chemicals known as PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) – often referred to as “forever chemicals.” And one place these toxic substances are commonly found is in artificial turf. B&B Hoffman Sod is talking about PFAs, how they affect our health and environment, and how the upcoming ban on PFAs may affect you and your lawn.

What Are PFAs?

PFAs are a class of man-made chemicals used in a wide variety of products since the 1940s. They’re known for their water- and stain-resistant properties, used in everything from nonstick cookware to waterproof clothing, and even artificial turf. PFAs don’t break down naturally in the environment, which means they last for decades, or even longer. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health problems, including liver damage, immune system disruption, and even certain cancers. 

Minnesota’s Ban on PFAs

In response to growing concerns about the harmful effects of PFAs, Minnesota is taking a critical step in 2025 to ban any fabric containing intentionally added PFAs. This includes products like outdoor rugs and synthetic turf. According to the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA), the goal is to reduce PFAs in our environment and safeguard public health. As part of the law, starting in 2025, artificial turf that contains PFAs will no longer be allowed to be manufactured, sold, or installed in the state.

“But You’re a Family-Owned Sod Farm – Why Are You Talking About PFAs?”

At B&B Hoffman Sod, we’re committed to providing our customers with healthy, sustainable lawns, fields, and landscapes. As Minnesota prepares for the 2025 ban on PFAs, we encourage you to consider the long-term environmental and health implications of your landscaping choices. 

Artificial turf can be a popular choice for sports fields, playgrounds, and even residential lawns due to its low maintenance and durability. Unfortunately, many artificial turf products contain PFAs to make the turf more durable and water-resistant, and they may contribute to environmental pollution and potential health risks when they leach out into the surroundings.

If you’ve ever noticed the “new carpet” smell on a freshly installed field, it’s likely a sign of chemicals being released into the air. Over time, as the turf ages and breaks down, PFAs can seep into the ground, contaminating nearby soil and water supplies. 

If you’re thinking about installing artificial turf, it’s important to know that:

  • PFAs are a concern: Many synthetic turf products contain these harmful chemicals, which will soon be banned in Minnesota.
  • Natural grass is a safe, sustainable option: Grass provides a natural solution to outdoor spaces. It’s low-maintenance, beautiful, and free from harmful chemicals.
  • Consider eco-friendly alternatives: While we obviously prefer you choose our premium Kentucky Blue Grass, if you absolutely must choose a synthetic option, make sure to check for products that are certified free of PFAs or other harmful substances. Look for turf made from sustainable materials that prioritize safety for both the environment and your family.

A Future-Free of “Forever Chemicals”

We’re all in this together – protecting our environment and ensuring that our outdoor spaces are safe for future generations. Minnesota’s decision to ban PFAs in 2025 is a significant step toward reducing harmful chemicals in our environment, and it will encourage the landscaping industry to innovate and offer better, safer alternatives for artificial turf and other outdoor materials.

At B&B Hoffman Sod, we’re proud to support these efforts by providing customers with environmentally friendly and safe sod options. Whether you’re looking to replace your old lawn or create a beautiful, green outdoor space for your family or business, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

If you have questions about sustainable landscaping, feel free to reach out to B&B Hoffman Sod by calling (763) 434-6572 or visiting our website. Let’s work together to ensure Minnesota’s outdoor spaces remain healthy, safe, and chemical-free for years to come!

How Does Your Lawn Survive Winter?

Winter can be a tough time for your lawn, especially in cold climates like Minnesota. As the temperatures drop, your once lush, green lawn will turn brown and seem bare, and you might even wonder if it’s dead. Fear not! This natural process is known as dormancy—a survival mechanism that helps your grass survive the cold winter months. Let’s take a closer look at what happens to sod during winter and why dormancy is actually a good thing for your lawn’s health.

What Is Dormancy and How Does Grass Prepare for Winter?

Dormancy is when plants and grass slow their metabolic processes to conserve energy and survive harsh conditions. The dormancy process is crucial for survival in regions with cold winters (like here in Minnesota). As the weather cools, grass enters a state of rest where growth stops, and resources are conserved until warmer temperatures return in spring. This process is a natural defense mechanism, allowing grass to survive freezing temperatures and snow cover without needing to actively grow.

What Happens to Grass in Winter?

As winter sets in, the energy needed for new shoots or leaves is reserved. During the dormancy period, the grass may turn brown, but the roots remain alive and protected underground. Though the grass blades appear dormant above the soil, the root system continues to stay active—although at a much slower rate—ensuring that the grass can “wake up” when the weather warms up in spring.

The Role of Snow as Insulation

Love it or hate it, Minnesota typically gets a decent blanket of snow each winter. Snow isn’t just pretty (or annoying if you’re the one who has to shovel); it actually plays a vital role in protecting your lawn during the winter months. As snow accumulates on your lawn, it acts as a natural blanket, insulating the soil and helping to maintain more consistent soil temperatures. This protection prevents the roots from freezing solid, allowing them to remain viable through the colder months. Snow cover also helps to buffer temperature extremes, which can be especially beneficial during periods of thawing and refreezing.

Common Misconceptions About Dormant Grass

Many homeowners worry when their grass turns brown or seems to die off during the winter. It’s a common misconception that dormant grass is dead. In fact, brown grass is completely normal and is simply a sign that the plant is conserving energy and preparing to survive through winter. Dormant grass may appear lifeless, but it’s just taking a break! As long as the grass has been properly cared for leading into winter, it will rebound once the weather warms up. The key to a healthy lawn is making sure it’s well-prepared for dormancy by having strong roots going into the season. (Pro tip: See our previous blog posts for useful lawn care tips!)

Your Lawn Will Bounce Back in Spring

While your lawn may look brown and barren during the winter, dormancy is a necessary survival strategy. With the right care and preparation in the fall, your sod will emerge in the spring refreshed and ready to grow again. The roots will still be intact, and when temperatures rise, the grass will come out of dormancy, refreshed and ready to green up again. And don’t worry – when it’s time to wake your grass from its winter nap, B&B Hoffman Sod will be here with tips to make it lush and green!



New sod and lawn care.. In November?

The sprinklers may have been shut off or put away, and we have already had our first snow of the season, but it’s not too late to install new sod or to winterize your lawn. While that might sound crazy to some, B&B Hoffman Sod has tips for making sure your lawn is ready to look amazing once the snow melts in the spring.

It’s not too late to install new sod!

You might think that November is too late to install new sod, but yes – it is still possible to do this before winter! As long as the ground isn’t frozen and the temperatures cooperate with your plans, you can still install sod. Although roots may not establish this fall, they will in the spring. Keep in mind, you will still need a water source… think garden hose and sprinklers if you’ve blown out your sprinkler system. Contact B&B Hoffman Sod at 763-434-6572 to see if you can install our premium Kentucky Blue Grass before the snow flies!

Winterize the right way
  • Cover bare areas: If you’re not able to get your new sod installed before the ground freezes, make sure to cover the mud now rather than deal with it in the spring. Your floors will thank you once the snow melts and you’re not constantly cleaning up muddy paw prints or messes from kids playing outside in the warmer weather.
  • Mow one last time: Before you store the lawn mower for the winter, cut the grass short to prevent mold, fungus, or other threats to your lawn (and your allergies!). Long grass provides a cozy home for voles, mice, or other creepy crawlies to hide. Rodents and insects cause damage to lawns with their trails and holes, not to mention feasting on bulbs like tulips or irises. 
  • Use a winterizing fertilizer: Using a winter-specific fertilizer will ensure your lawn gets the nutrients it needs during the long, cold winter months. B&B Hoffman Sod sells the same fertilizer we use on our sod farm available for purchase. Contact us to ask about our fertilizer options. 

For more lawn care tips, explore our previous blog posts for all things sod, grass, and fertilizer! If you would like to get sod before winter, reach out to us at office@bbhoffmansod.com or by calling 763-434-6572 to see if installing this fall is still possible for your lawn.

Yes, You CAN Sod Your Lawn in Autumn!

Most people think that it’s too late to sod in autumn. B&B Hoffman Sod is here to tell you to why fall is actually a great time of year to sod your lawn.

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Get Your Yard Ready To Host Summer Events!

Get your yard ready for summer events with B&B Hoffman Sod Farms

Minnesota summers are perfect for hosting outdoor gatherings like weddings, graduation parties, birthday parties, and family reunions. When you host an event in your backyard, it becomes the backdrop where memories are created and treasured. If your lawn is looking patchy or bare, laying sod is a great way to quickly establish a lush, green backdrop for an outdoor event. If you’re unsure about when you should start or what you need to do to get your lawn ready, B&B Hoffman Sod is here to help make your yard the ideal backdrop for hosting. Here are the most important things to consider for making your outdoor space the best it can be on the big day:

Timing

Ideally, you should lay sod at least 2-3 weeks before the event. Allowing enough time before your gathering allows the sod roots to establish themselves in the soil, giving it a better chance to withstand foot traffic and activities during the event.

 

Preparation 

Before laying sod, prepare the soil thoroughly by leveling it, removing any debris, and adding any necessary soil amendments or fertilizers. Ensure the soil is moist but not overly soggy.

 

Weather 

Aim to lay sod during mild weather conditions, typically in spring or early fall when temperatures are cooler. Avoid laying sod during extreme heat or cold, as these conditions can stress the sod and affect its establishment.

 

Watering 

Immediately after laying sod, it’s crucial to water it thoroughly to help it settle and initiate root growth. Keep the sod consistently moist in the following weeks, adjusting watering frequency based on weather conditions.

 

Mowing and Maintenance 

Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade at a time to prevent stress on the newly established sod.

 

High-Traffic Areas 

If possible, restrict heavy foot traffic on newly laid sod until it has firmly rooted into the soil. Consider using temporary pathways or stepping stones to minimize damage in high-traffic areas.

 

If you’re planning to host an outdoor event and unsure about the timing or process of laying your sod, reach out to us at B&B Hoffman Sod Farms! We can provide the guidance you need to ensure your lawn is perfect for your event. Our beautiful Kentucky Blue Grass and expert knowledge will make your lawn a stunning backdrop for your special occasion.


Installing Your New Sod

Congratulations! You decided to spruce up your yard by laying new sod this spring. The idea of installing your new sod yourself can be overwhelming, and now the rolls of sod have been delivered and you have no idea what to do with them. Don’t worry! B&B Hoffman Sod is here to walk you through the questions that arise during the installation of a beautiful new lawn. These are the most common questions we get about sod installation:

  • How long should I wait to lay my new sod?

    Sod must always be laid the same day as delivery.

     

  • Where should I begin?

    Begin laying sod at a straight edge such as a sidewalk, driveway, curb, or string between two stakes. If you’re sodding your entire yard, we recommend working from the backyard to the front.

     

  • How should I lay the sod?

    Stagger the rows as if you were laying bricks with the seams butted together tightly but not overlapping.

     

  • Is there anything special I should be doing with the sod as I lay it?

    Keep the sod moist and prevent it from drying out. Once an area of approximately 200 square feet is installed, begin watering immediately. Keep rotating sprinklers onto freshly laid sod while continuing to install the remainder of your yard. Water enough that it has penetrated through the sod and saturated the dirt underneath, bog-like.

     

  • My sod looks lumpy – how can I fix it?

    If you see lumps in your yard and wish to roll them out, you should do so within the first week. Rolling is not necessary, but it is an option if you feel it would improve the appearance. If you do opt to roll it, rollers can be rented from a local rental store. Be sure your lawn is very damp before you begin and when using the roller, we recommend you pull it along rather than push it. 

 

Now that you’ve laid the new sod, proper care is crucial to keep it looking its best. It may seem obvious, but the most important thing to do is WATER, WATER, WATER! 

 

If you still have questions about installing or caring for new sod, we are always happy to help! Contact B&B Hoffman Sod with any questions you may have to keep your new sod looking as lush as the day we cut it.