
New Sod Care Guide
New Sod Care Guide - Central Texas
Your First 30 Days with Zoysia or Bermuda Sod
First 7-10 Days (Establishment Phase)
• Water 2-3 times daily, keeping soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
• Morning watering: 6-8 AM
• Afternoon watering: 2-3 PM
• Each watering session: 10-15 minutes
• Avoid walking on new sod
• Look for edge-to-edge contact between sod pieces
Days 11-21 (Root Development)
• Reduce to once daily watering
• Water deeply (20-25 minutes) in early morning
• Test root establishment by gently lifting a corner
• Begin mowing when sod is firmly rooted (usually 2-3 weeks)
• First mow height: 2" for Bermuda, 2.5" for Zoysia
Days 22-30 (Transition Phase)
• Transition to normal watering schedule
• Water 2-3 times per week, deeply
• Mow regularly at recommended height
• Apply light fertilizer if needed
Important Texas Tips
• During summer installation, increase initial watering frequency
• Monitor for signs of heat stress
• Follow local watering restrictions
• Best planting times: Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-October)
Warning Signs
• Edges curling up
• Gaps between pieces
• Yellowing grass
• Soggy soil
• Contact Yard Pros: 512-638-8799 if concerned