Debunking Common Myths About Sod Maintenance

What Vancouver, WA Homeowners Really Need to Know About Their New Lawn

Sod installation is the fastest way to achieve a beautiful, green lawn — but maintaining it properly is where many homeowners go wrong. There’s a ton of misinformation out there that leads to dead patches, overwatering, and wasted time. That’s why the team at L&A Landscaping Specialists is here to set the record straight by debunking the most common sod maintenance myths we hear from homeowners in Vancouver, WA.

If you want your new sod lawn to stay healthy, lush, and low-maintenance, keep reading — and stop falling for these false assumptions.

Myth #1: Once sod is installed, it doesn’t need much water

✅ Reality: New sod needs a lot of water — especially in the first few weeks.
During the first 10–14 days, your sod must stay consistently moist to help the roots bond with the soil. Most failed sod installations are due to under-watering during this critical period.

Pro Tip: Water 2–3 times a day for the first week. Adjust based on sun exposure and temperature.

Myth #2: You should mow your new sod right away

✅ Reality: Mowing too early can destroy root development.
Wait at least 2–3 weeks before your first mow, and make sure the grass is 3–4 inches tall. Also, make sure the sod has properly rooted — you can test this by gently tugging on a corner; if it lifts easily, wait longer.

Myth #3: Fertilizer isn’t necessary if the lawn looks good

✅ Reality: Sod may look great at first — but it needs nutrients to stay that way.
Starter fertilizer should be applied during installation to encourage root growth. After that, a regular fertilization schedule (typically every 6–8 weeks during growing seasons) helps maintain a thick, green lawn.

Myth #4: Sod can be installed over an existing lawn

✅ Reality: Never install sod over old grass or weeds.
This is a shortcut that guarantees failure. The new sod won’t establish properly, and you’ll get root suffocation, pest issues, or disease. Professional installation always includes removal of the existing lawn, proper grading, and soil preparation.

Myth #5: Sod lawns are immune to weeds

✅ Reality: While sod is delivered weed-free, it’s not invincible.
If your soil is full of weed seeds or your watering schedule is inconsistent, weeds can creep in — especially along the edges or in weakened spots. But with proper maintenance, your sod will grow dense enough to crowd them out.

Myth #6: Sod only works in the summer

✅ Reality: Sod can be successfully installed in spring, summer, fall, and even winter in Vancouver, WA.
Our mild Pacific Northwest climate allows for nearly year-round sod installation. In fact, fall is one of the best times because the cooler temps reduce water stress.

Myth #7: All sod is the same

✅ Reality: There are multiple sod varieties — and choosing the wrong one can ruin your lawn.
Lawn usage, shade levels, and soil type all play a role. The best sod for Vancouver, WA often includes:

• Perennial Ryegrass – For high-traffic durability
• Fine Fescue – For shaded areas
• Kentucky Bluegrass – For rich color and density

Let us help you choose the right variety for your property.

Myth #8: Sod lawns are maintenance-free

✅ Reality: Sod is lower-maintenance than seed, but it’s not “set it and forget it.”
You still need:

• Proper watering
• Scheduled fertilizing
• Seasonal aeration
• Pest and disease monitoring

The good news? When done right, sod maintenance is simple and predictable — and much easier than growing from seed.

Myth #9: I can handle sod installation and maintenance without help

✅ Reality: DIY sod often leads to poor results and high costs.
Without proper soil prep, irrigation setup, and aftercare, your sod may fail. Homeowners often end up paying twice — once for the DIY, and again to have it done correctly. L&A Landscaping provides affordable, pro-grade sod installation and personalized maintenance tips.

Myth #10: Sod lawns don’t last as long as seeded lawns

✅ Reality: With the right care, a sod lawn can last 10–20 years or more.
The longevity comes down to proper maintenance. In fact, because sod establishes faster and denser than seed, it’s often more resilient in the long run.

🌱 Keep Your Sod Lawn Healthy — the Right Way

Don't fall for myths that leave your lawn dry, patchy, or dead. Trust the experts at L&A Landscaping Specialists to not only install your sod correctly, but also guide you on how to care for it long-term. Serving Vancouver, WA and surrounding communities, we’re here to help you enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn year-round.

📞 Call: (360) 605-7062
🌐 www.lnalandscapingspecialists.com

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