Often people do not understand when to mow new sod and that can cause some unpleasant problems for their garden. 

First of all, we need to understand that sod helps you achieve the perfect green look in your garden, but it still requires some care in the initial few weeks to grow strong roots and settle down. And you must know the perfect time to mow it. Because when you know exactly when to mow new sod, we can assure you that you will have the best turf!

Why Is It Important to Mow the Newly Planted Lawn?

Because keeping your lawn healthy and beautiful IS important. After installing the new sod, you need to mow, to keep up the appearance of the turf. 

However, knowing the right time for mowing is a game-changer. It ensures that your lawn does not incur much loss in terms of either texture or appearance. 

New Sod Preparation Before Mowing

Before mowing new sod, you must allow it to rest after installation. This period is of utmost importance because during this period the grass sends its roots deep enough to anchor the soil. 

But keep in mind that in this period it’s better not to mow or even walk over the lawn. Because the grass is tender at this point and may break and bruise.  

Care Tips Before Mowing New Sod

Watering

Watering ensures a good growth rate of the roots underneath. However, do not pour too much water in one go! This may lead to stagnation. So if you wonder how soon can you mow your new sod the answer is – as long as it takes for the turf to grow strong roots beneath it. 

The first two weeks are very crucial and you must water your sod well in this period. It should be done anywhere between three to five times a day. There must be enough water to keep your lawn spongy and damp. Also, keep in mind that the water must reach a depth of 4 to 6 inches. 

Fertilization 

Fertilization is great for your newly installed sod. Paired with water, it can get you some amazing and best results. You can either go for store-bought fertilizer or make your own. Your fertilizer must contain the right nutrients and macronutrients. Also, remember that nitrogen is crucial at this stage. Maintain a safe level when it comes to fertilization.

More Water in Summer

If you are mowing sod for the first time, it is likely that you would not know when to cut new sod, exactly. Let us tell you – a lot depends upon the season. In any case, you must give your sod some 15 days’ rest. But in summers, your water supply must be more than 3 to 5 times a day or your grass will burn and die out. 

Avoid Foot Traffic

Besides fertilizing and watering new sod, you must avoid stepping on the lawn in the period that it grows roots. The lawn is supposed to be kept perpetually wet and walking may leave behind depressions besides damaging the still-sensitive grass. 

Mowing Your New Sod

When Can You Mow New Sod?

Generally, you can mow your new sod after 15 days of care with enough water and fertilizer. By this time the grass has already grown deep roots into the soil. 

What Height to Cut New Sod?

Besides knowing how long to wait before mowing new sod you must also know what height should you cut them to. Different grass will have different recommended mowing height. You must know well about the kind you have picked, be it grass for South Carolina or other regions. 

Grass	Height to reach before mowing	Recommended mowing height
Bahiagrass	3 to 4 inches	2 to 3 inches
Bentgrass	½ to 1 ½ inch	¼ to ¾ inch
Bermuda	1 ½ to 2 inches	1 to 1 ½ inch
Buffalograss	3 to 4 inches	2 to 3 inches
Centipede	2 to 3 inches	1 ½ to 2 inches
Fine fescue	3 to 3 ¾ inches	2 to 2 ½ inches
Kentucky bluegrass	3 to 3 ¾ inches	2 to 2 ½ inches
Ryegrass	2 to 3 ¾ inches	1 ½ to 2 ½ inches
St. Augustine	3 ¾ to 4 ½ inches	2 ½ to 3 inches
Tall Fescue	3 to 4 ¾ inches	2 to 3 inches
Zoysia	1 ½ to 2 inches	1 to 1 ½ inch

Caring For New Sod After Mowing 

• Reduce Watering: After cutting new sod, which ideally should be the third week, you must reduce your watering frequency. Restrict it from 2 to 3 per day. The watering frequency is important for both before and after mowing. 
• Water Lawn On Alternate Days: If your lawn does not dry out quickly, you can also water it on alternate days. 
• Run Sprinklers in the Morning or Evening: In case of minimal evaporation, run your sprinkles twice a day. 

Final Word

Now that you know when to mow new sod along with what to do before and after it, we hope you will not find it difficult to make a paradise out of your regular lawn. Let us know about your experience in the comment section below!