Sod Care Tips & Sod Installation in Maryland
New sod can look incredible fast, but the first two to three weeks determine how well it roots, thickens, and holds up through Maryland heat. These sod care tips will help you prepare your soil, schedule watering correctly, and protect your new lawn during the critical establishment period. Contact us if you have questions about timing, square footage, or delivery.
Our cut-to-order scheduling ensures your sod arrives fresh and ready to root.
Before You Install: Prep, Measuring, and Timing
Measuring & Ordering
Measure the length and width of each lawn area and total the square footage. Subtract for patios, walkways, and beds. If your yard has curves or multiple sections, break it into smaller rectangles and add them together. Not sure on measurements? We can help you estimate.
Soil Testing
Before installing sod, testing can reveal pH issues or nutrient deficiencies that affect rooting and color. For the most accurate results, use your county extension office or a reliable lab. Even a basic test can help you choose the right starter fertilizer and reduce future problems.
Prepare Your Soil for Sod
Loosen the top layer of soil so roots can penetrate easily. Remove rocks and debris, then grade the surface so water drains away from structures. Add compost or topsoil if needed and rake smooth. Right before installation, lightly water the soil so it is damp, not muddy, then lay sod immediately.
Cut to Order Scheduling for Better Rooting
Cut-to-order sod • Walkersville, MD • Delivery across MD, PA & WV
Sod quality is not just the grass variety, it is timing. We schedule cutting close to your pickup or delivery so your sod arrives fresh, stays healthier during install, and roots faster. If you’re working around contractors, weather, or a schedule, we can help coordinate the right amount and timing.
Sod Installation & Maintenance
Leveling Your Lawn
Use an iron rake to knock down high spots and fill low areas so the soil is level and about one inch below paved surfaces. Lightly water the soil to dampen it before installation.
Laying the First Row
Start along the longest straight edge, such as a fence or driveway. Unroll sod along this line and keep off the turf while installing. Smooth loose areas and press sod firmly against the soil so there are no air pockets.
Laying the Next Rows
Stagger seams like bricks by cutting pieces in half as needed. Butt sections tightly without overlapping. Trim sod around sprinkler heads, planting beds, and paved areas.
When to Water New Sod
Water immediately after installation to help settle the soil and activate root contact. Keep foot traffic off the sod for at least the first week while roots begin to establish. Consistent moisture during this period is critical for successful rooting.
Watering Schedule
Water daily in the morning the first week to reduce evaporation and disease risk. After week one, reduce watering to every other day. By week three, water twice per week. Once established, provide about one inch of water per week, increasing in hot/dry conditions.
Mowing & Fertilizing
Mow after the sod is rooted and the grass reaches about 3 inches tall—cut to about 2 inches with a sharp blade and avoid scalping. After 3–4 weeks, apply a starter fertilizer to replace nutrients lost during early watering and encourage strong root growth.
Want Your New Sod to Take Root Fast?
The first two to three weeks matter most. If you want help planning watering, timing your install, or ordering the correct amount, we are happy to walk you through it. Reach out before your install date so we can schedule cut to order sod and help you start with the best possible results.Call or text us @ 240-397-58953 or contact us to get started.