Q: When is the best time to install sod?

A: Spring and Fall are typically ideal times to lay down sod. However, sod can be installed throughout much of the growing season with proper care and maintenance.

Q: How soon should I install sod after delivery or picking up at our farm?

A: Sod is perishable! Customers need to have sod installed within 24 hours for the best results.

Q: How often should I water new sod?

A: Frequent watering is critical at first- usually multiple times a day for the first two weeks while the grass is working on rooting. Do not cut this area or have high traffic walking or playing on it till it roots.

Q: When can I mow new sod?

A: After 2-3 weeks, once the roots have been established and the grass reaches mowing height.

Q: When can I walk on new sod?

A: Usually after 3 weeks and if the sod is properly rooted into the new area. High traffic is not recommended at all during the rooting phase.

Q: How should I prepare my soil before laying sod?

A: Preparing the area for your new sod. Remove old sod and any other debris from the site. Level the area if needed along with proper grading and drainage. You can also add topsoil prior to laying down the new sod.

Grass Care Tips for a Beautiful Lawn Year-Round

Taking care of your freshly installed sod is essential to ensure it thrives and grows into a lush, green lawn. Huggett Sod Farm, Inc., located in Marlette, MI, offers some simple grass care tips for each type of sod we offer. Follow these guidelines to keep your lawn healthy, vibrant, and looking its best!

RTF® (Rhizomatous Tall Fescue) Sod Care

Watering: Water your RTF sod thoroughly after installation, and keep it consistently moist for the first few weeks. Once established, reduce watering to about 1-1.5 inches per week.

Mowing: Mow your RTF sod when it reaches 3-4 inches in height. Set your mower blade to 3 inches to avoid scalping and to maintain a healthy, dense turf.

Fertilizing: Feed your RTF lawn with a balanced fertilizer 4-6 weeks after installation to encourage strong root development. Follow up with seasonal fertilizing as needed.

Weed Control: RTF is naturally dense, but to prevent weeds, maintain proper mowing and watering habits. Apply a pre-emergent herbicide in early spring if needed.

Premium Shade Mix Care (25% Fine Fescue, 75% Bluegrass)

Watering: Water deeply but infrequently during the first few weeks. Once your premium shade sod is established, water once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and heat.

Mowing: Keep your lawn at a height of 2.5 to 3 inches. This helps the fine fescue and bluegrass mixture thrive, especially in shaded areas.

Fertilizing: Apply a light, balanced fertilizer 4-6 weeks after installation to enhance growth. Avoid heavy fertilization as it can encourage excessive growth in shaded areas.

Weed Control: Your Premium Shade Sod naturally helps shade out weeds. Keep an eye on any unwanted growth and consider spot treatments as necessary to maintain the health of your lawn.

Nuggett + II Bluegrass Sod Care

Watering: Water your Nuggett + II Bluegrass immediately after installation, ensuring the soil beneath is moist. Keep watering regularly for the first few weeks, then reduce watering as the grass establishes itself.

Mowing: Once your Nuggett + II Bluegrass reaches 3 inches, begin mowing. Set your mower to 2.5-3 inches to promote healthy growth. This turf thrives with regular mowing.

Fertilizing: Fertilize your Nuggett + II Bluegrass after 4-6 weeks to strengthen the root system. Use a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to maintain consistent growth.

Weed Control: Nuggett + II Bluegrass is resistant to many common lawn weeds, but regular mowing and watering will help reduce the chance of weeds taking hold. Spot treat with herbicides as needed.

Two rolls of grass in a field with a tractor in the background

FAQs

Q: When is the best time to install sod?
A: Spring and Fall are typically ideal times to lay down sod. However, sod can be installed throughout much of the growing season with proper care and maintenance.
Q: How soon should I install sod after delivery or picking up at our farm?
A: Sod is perishable! Customers need to have sod installed within 24 hours for the best results.
Q: How often should I water new sod?
A: Frequent watering is critical at first- usually multiple times a day for the first two weeks while the grass is working on rooting. Do not cut this area or have high traffic walking or playing on it till it roots.
Q: When can I mow new sod?
A: After 2-3 weeks, once the roots have been established and the grass reaches mowing height.
Q: When can I walk on new sod?
A: Usually after 3 weeks and if the sod is properly rooted into the new area. High traffic is not recommended at all during the rooting phase.
Q: How should I prepare my soil before laying sod?
A: Preparing the area for your new sod. Remove old sod and any other debris from the site. Level the area if needed along with proper grading and drainage. You can also add topsoil prior to laying down the new sod.

Ready to Choose Your New Lawn?

Huggett Sod Farm, Inc. takes pride in providing high-quality sod for your lawn. Whether you're choosing RTF, Premium Shade Mix, or Nuggett + II Bluegrass, our team in Marlette, MI is here to help you every step of the way.

Call us today at (989) 635-7482 to place your order or for expert lawn care advice! We look forward to helping you create a beautiful, healthy lawn that lasts for years to come.