Caring for new sod is one of the most important steps in creating a strong, lasting lawn. At Jensen Turf, we understand how essential proper sod maintenance is, especially in the unique climate of Weston, ID, and surrounding areas throughout Southeast Idaho and Northern Utah. As a family-owned, owner-operated company, we stay involved in every step of your project to ensure your yard receives the same attention and pride we put into our own fields. Our locally grown sod, including our specialized Kentucky bluegrass blend, is designed to thrive in our environment and flourish when maintained correctly.
New sod requires careful attention during its first few weeks so the roots can anchor firmly into the soil. Consistent moisture is critical during this time, particularly in the dry, warm conditions common to Weston, ID. The goal is to keep the sod and soil evenly damp without oversaturating it. Steady watering encourages the roots to grow deeper, improving long-term resilience. Kentucky bluegrass blends, like the one we grow at Jensen Turf, are especially responsive to thoughtful watering strategies and reward homeowners with quicker recovery, improved durability, and fewer complications during dormancy.
Everything you need to know to ensure you have a beautiful lawn for years to come.
Prepare your soil by eliminating weeds and grasses with an herbicide, and clear all debris and large rocks. Consult a nurseryman for the best soil amendment and till to a depth of 6 to 9 inches. If needed, install a sprinkler system at this stage. Grade the soil by smoothing and leveling it with a rake, ensuring the grade is about an inch below sidewalks and driveways. Rolling the soil can help firm it up before installation. Spread a pre-plant fertilizer as recommended by a nurseryman.
Install your sod right after delivery to prevent it from drying out. Same-day installation is highly recommended. Begin laying sod along a straight edge such as a sidewalk or driveway, ensuring the joints are butted tightly together without overlapping. Stagger the joints like rows of bricks. Use a sharp knife to cut and shape sod around trees, borders, and other obstacles. Start watering no later than 30 minutes of laying sod, even if it's not fully installed, to prevent the tender grass roots from drying out and wilting. Ensure the new sod is watered to a depth of 4-5 inches during the first watering.
Keep your new lawn consistently moist but not soggy during the first 8 to 10 days after installation. Watering in the early morning is best to reduce evaporation and ensure the grass has sufficient moisture throughout the day for an established lawn. However, for new sod, it is important to space the watering throughout the heat of the day. We recommend 10-20 minute water sessions. To determine the exact duration, check to ensure the water has penetrated through the sod into the bare soil below. We recommend two, three, or four waterings per day for 70, 80, and 90+ degree days respectively.
Continue to keep the sod and soil moist, checking under the sod to ensure it’s not drying out. Hold off mowing or fertilizing to avoid causing additional stress to the new sod.
Gradually reduce the frequency of watering but increase the depth. Water deeply 2-3 times a week to encourage deep root growth. When the grass reaches 3-4 inches in height, mow for the first time, setting your mower to a higher setting to avoid stressing the new grass.
Transition to routine lawn care. Consult your local lawn care provider or look online for recommendations for a mature Kentucky Bluegrass lawn such as this one here.
Watering practices can significantly influence how well new sod performs. Early on, lawns benefit from several light watering periods throughout the day to maintain moisture. As the sod begins to establish, the schedule shifts toward fewer but deeper watering sessions. This transition supports deeper root growth and increases drought resilience. Because our specialty Kentucky bluegrass mix is developed to perform well in both moist and dry conditions, proper watering helps it self-repair, stay dense, and remain weed-resistant for years to come.
The steps taken before installation play a large role in how well new sod adapts. Quality topsoil, proper grading, and thorough weed removal all contribute to a healthier foundation. Once your sod is installed, ongoing care is essential. Allowing the sod time to take root before mowing prevents unnecessary stress. When the first mowing occurs, keeping the mower blades sharp and cutting only a small portion of the grass height reduces strain on new turf. With each stage of growth, the lawn becomes stronger, more uniform, and better equipped to handle seasonal changes.
Ongoing sod maintenance ensures your lawn remains healthy beyond its establishment period. Fertilizing at the right times, monitoring weed growth, and adjusting watering schedules throughout the year can dramatically extend the life of your lawn. Because Kentucky bluegrass responds favorably to proper seasonal sod care, Jensen Turf’s blends maintain color, density, and thickness even after periods of drought or dormancy. Our customers throughout Weston, ID, rely on these characteristics to keep their lawns looking fresh year after year, regardless of seasonal challenges.
Jensen Turf has built its reputation on high-quality, weed-free sod and personalized service. As a local business rooted in Cache Valley, we take pride in offering sod varieties tailored specifically for the climate and soil conditions of our region. Whether you are a homeowner installing a new lawn or a landscaper seeking dependable, long-lasting turf, our expertise and hands-on approach ensure you receive sod that performs beautifully with proper care. For customers needing additional support, we offer guidance on watering, maintenance, and long-term turf health to help you make the most of your investment.
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New sod should remain consistently moist during the first couple of weeks. Multiple light watering sessions each day help the roots establish. As the sod begins to take hold, gradually shift to deeper, less frequent watering.
You can mow once the sod has rooted firmly into the soil, typically after about two weeks. Make sure your mower blades are sharp, and avoid cutting too much height during the first few mowings.
Most sod takes three to six weeks to establish strong roots, depending on watering practices, soil conditions, and seasonal temperatures.
Kentucky bluegrass benefits from routine watering, seasonal fertilization, and consistent mowing. Its ability to self-repair makes it a strong, durable choice for local climates.
Our sod is grown from a custom Kentucky bluegrass blend designed specifically for our region’s climate. It demonstrates superior dormancy recovery, weed resistance, and long-term durability.
Cache Valley’s #1 Choice for Superior Sod
