How to Maintain Your New Sod Lawn: Tips for the First 30 Days

The Ultimate Guide for Vancouver, WA Homeowners

So you’ve just had fresh sod installed — congrats! You’ve made a great investment that instantly improves curb appeal and gives your yard a clean, professional look. But your job isn’t done just yet. The first 30 days are critical for your sod to take root and thrive.

At L&A Landscaping Specialists, we help Vancouver, WA homeowners get the most out of their new lawns. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your sod not only survives — but thrives for years to come.

📆 Week 1: Establish Moisture and Root Contact

✅ Watering:

• Frequency: 2–3 times per day
• Duration: 10–15 minutes per session
• Goal: Keep sod and soil consistently moist (not soggy)
• Timing: Water early in the morning and again in the early afternoon if needed

💡 Pro Tip: Gently lift a corner of the sod — if it’s dry underneath, water more often.

🚫 Avoid:

• Foot traffic
• Mowing
• Fertilizing

📆 Week 2: Encourage Root Growth

✅ Watering:

• Frequency: Once per day
• Duration: 15–20 minutes
• Goal: Begin deep watering to encourage downward root growth
• Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungus risk

✅ Check for Root Establishment:

Try gently tugging a few corners — they should resist. If not, continue with Week 1’s watering schedule for a few more days.

📆 Week 3: Prepare for First Mow

✅ Watering:

• 3–4 times per week (adjust for rain and heat)
• Deep soakings are better than light, frequent watering

✅ Mowing:

• Mow when grass reaches 3–4 inches tall
• Set your mower to its highest setting for the first mow
• Ensure the sod is firmly rooted before mowing

⚠️ Important: Use sharp mower blades. Dull blades can tear new grass.

📆 Week 4: Transition to Regular Maintenance

✅ Watering:

• Water deeply 2–3 times per week, depending on temperature and rainfall
• Water early in the morning to prevent disease and maximize absorption

✅ Fertilization:

• Apply a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or 15-15-15) after 4 weeks
• Avoid over-fertilizing — this can burn your lawn

✅ General Care:

• Start light foot traffic (kids, pets) but avoid heavy use for another 2 weeks
• Monitor for weeds — sod resists them well, but edges are vulnerable

💡 Bonus Tips for Vancouver, WA Sod Lawns

• Choose the right sod variety: We install the best grass types for our Pacific Northwest climate — Perennial Ryegrass, Fine Fescue, and Kentucky Bluegrass.
• Check your irrigation system: Ensure even water coverage. Dry spots can kill sod fast.
• Aerate yearly: After your first full season, consider aerating to keep the roots oxygenated and soil loose.

🌿 Let the Experts Help You Maintain a Healthy Lawn

A beautiful lawn starts with proper installation — but it lasts because of proper care. L&A Landscaping Specialists doesn’t just lay sod; we set you up for long-term success with expert guidance and support.

📞 Call us today at (360) 605-7062
🌐 Get a Free Quote

Serving Vancouver, Camas, Ridgefield, Battle Ground, and surrounding areas.

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