New Sod Care: Watering, Mowing, Weeds & Organic Transition

First 2 Weeks: Root Establishment

• Water daily to keep sod/soil interface moist (not soggy).
• St. Augustine tolerates more water; other types need less.
• No fertilizer—roots need to seek soil nutrients.

First Mowing

• Wait until 4–5 inches tall.
• Mow to 3 inches (not 1.5–2"—taller blades shade soil, reduce heat stress).
• Sharp blades essential.

Weeds in New Sod

Ignore initially. Most are annuals that won't survive mowing. If persistent after establishment, spot-treat organically or hand-pull. Corn gluten meal next spring prevents new weeds.

Organic Program (Proven 10 Years)

• Sugar 4–5 lbs/1,000 sq ft spring & fall.
• Deep weekly watering to 6".
• Baking soda for fungus, corn gluten for N + weeds.
• Alfalfa meal, lava sand for soil building.
• Beneficial wildlife (lizards, toads, snakes) control pests naturally.

Addressing Wildlife Concerns

Grandchildren fear snakes/lizards? Teach respect—these creatures eat harmful bugs. They flee from footsteps. Make toad houses as a fun project. Without them, you'd need insecticides that kill soil life. Coexistence = healthy ecosystem.