New sod will ultimately provide you with a lush, green lawn that enhances both the comfort and visual appeal of your entire property. To end up with the best possible results, it is crucial to follow a proper watering schedule. A lawn irrigation system will make this task much easier, as you can set timers so the sod is watered on a consistent basis. Here is a general timetable to follow.

Two Weeks After Installation

For the first few weeks after your sod is installed, watering will help the roots take hold and create a healthy lawn. On the day of the installation, water the sod well, aiming to penetrate about the first 2 inches of topsoil. 

However, after day one, the soil should be damp but never soggy, or you risk overwatering, depriving the roots of oxygen and impairing healthy growth. To avoid overly soggy soil, water more often but for shorter periods—about five minutes at a time, four to six times a day—from day two to day 14.

While four to six times a day may seem like a lot, it is essential for strong root establishment. If you don't already have one, consider investing in a lawn irrigation system. Set the timers to go off throughout the day, and you won't have to worry about missing a watering. 

Three Weeks and Beyond

At the three-week mark, you can likely start reducing the frequency of your watering. Check root establishment by carefully lifting a corner of the sod. If there is some resistance, start omitting the last watering of the day, but add a few more minutes to your other watering sessions.

Continue checking the sod in this manner in the coming weeks. Gradually cut out the last watering cycle of the day as the roots take hold and add a few minutes to the remaining waterings. In about a week, you should only be watering once a day for 10 to 15 minutes.

Enjoy the convenience of a lawn irrigation system from Anderson Irrigation and Outdoor Lighting. Since 2001, they have been serving Williamsburg, OH, and the Tri-State area. They provide residential and commercial irrigation systems and comprehensive outdoor lighting solutions. Call (513) 724-0472 to request a quote or visit them online to browse their products.