How Much Should I Water My New Lawn?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask after installing sod is, “How much should I water my new lawn?” 

The short answer is: plenty at first, then gradually less as the roots become established.

Proper watering is one of the most important factors in helping new sod develop a strong root system and grow into a healthy, beautiful lawn. B&B Hoffman Sod Farm is here to answer your watering questions and to make sure your new lawn thrives from Day 1.

Weeks 1-2 Are Critical

Newly installed sod is prone to shrinkage, so it relies heavily on regular watering.

For the first 10-14 days:

  • Water 1 -2 times per day
  • Keep the sod and soil underneath consistently moist
  • Water early in the morning and again during the hottest parts of the day if needed

Pro Tip: Long watering is better than several short waterings.

Weeks 3-4: Water Less Often, But More Deeply

Once established, your lawn needs about 1” of water per week. Use a cat food/tuna fish can to determine how much water your lawn is getting. Aim for ½ inch two times per week. If you get rain, count that as one day of watering (not one week).

At this stage:

  • Water once per day or every other day
  • Encourage deeper root growth
  • Check that the sod is firmly rooting into the soil

Pro Tip: When mowing, never cut more than ⅓” from your grass height at a time.

 Signs Your Sod Needs Water

If you’re not sure whether you’re watering enough, here are signs to look for:

  • Dry or curling edges (water immediately!)
  • Wilting grass blades
  • Footprints that remain visible after walking on the lawn
  • Sod is turning a bluish color

Pro Tip: 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.

Don’t Overwater

Too much water can be just as harmful as too little. Overwatering can lead to shallow roots, disease, and soggy soil conditions. If water is pooling or the ground feels muddy, it’s time to cut back.

Set Your New Lawn Up for Success

A little extra attention during the first month can make all the difference. Proper watering helps your sod establish strong roots and creates the foundation for a lush, healthy lawn. If you have questions about watering, installation, or scheduling a sod delivery, the B&B Hoffman Sod team is always happy to help. Reach out today with your watering questions or to order your sod rolls at 763-434-6572.

 

Fall Lawn Prep: Winterize the Right Way

It’s autumn in Minnesota – time for beautiful weather, brightly colored trees, and pumpkin spice everything. Folks are able to enjoy their valuable weekends at apple orchards or football games instead of spending their time on lawn care. Before you put away the mower for the season, B&B Hoffman Sod is here with tips to keep your yard in tip-top shape over the winter.

Don’t Forget the Tuna Can! (Yes, you read that right!)

Before you put away the hose or blow out your sprinkler system, remember that despite cooler temperatures and the many rainy days Minnesota had this past summer, your lawn still needs water. A healthy lawn needs approximately an inch of water per week, especially if it is less than three years old. It is best to water very deeply once a week—or twice a week if we are enjoying unseasonably hot weather. New sod needs watering everyday with the drought we are currently experiencing. 

One way to make sure your lawn is getting enough moisture is to set out empty tuna cans. To ensure you are watering the right amount, place empty tuna cans in the areas where you are sprinkling. When there is about an inch of water in the can, you’ll know your lawn has gotten enough moisture to get into the roots and stay healthy. 

Feed Your Lawn With Fertilizer

Who doesn’t like a bedtime snack? Mid-October is a great time to start putting winterizing fertilizer down. Winterizer gives your yard a boost of nitrogen for your grass to store through the winter while it’s sleeping under the snow. This nitrogen will help your yard be one of the first on the block to turn green once spring arrives. Be sure to water it in since we are not scheduled to get any rain for the next few weeks.

B&B Hoffman Sod has the fertilizer your lawn needs for each season available for purchase at our farm. Call us at 763-434-6572 to reserve your bags in time to feed your lawn for the winter.

For more information on how to care for your new sod or general yard care, explore the B&B Hoffman Sod website! We have a ton of tips for watering, lawn care, installation, and more!