New St. Augustine Sod Turning Beige: Pallet Storage, Disease, or Watering?

The Situation

Sod laid in June, watered daily 2 weeks, then 2×/week. One week later: uniform beige spread. No chinch bugs. Roots established. Theories: pallet storage (3 days), fertilizer burn, fungus.

Expert Advice

• Sod on pallets >48 hrs can overheat/ferment, but usually recovers with water/air.
• Baking soda won't hurt but isn't a cure.
• Call the sod company immediately. They must inspect. If diseased, they're responsible. Quick treatment may save it.

Don't Wait

New sod is a living product with warranty. Document with photos. Demand a site visit. Most issues are fixable if caught early.