After days of planning and struggling for a fresh new lawn, the thing you would least like to do is ruin it just because you could not wait. Your lawn must be looking ready to be used, but this might not be the case in actuality.
If this is the first time you are working on planting new sod, you might not know when can you walk on new sod. Don’t worry if this is the case, because we’ve got you!
This article has everything you need to consider when planting new sod on your lawn. It tells you about how to take care of your new sod, when can you walk on new sod, what happens to the sod when you walk on it after planting, and all the answers to the possible questions you might have in mind!
What Is A Sod?
Sod is a very common quick fix used to get a new, fresh and healthy lawn in no time. It is a patch of already grown grass that can be rolled out and planted easily.
When Can You Walk On New Sod?
Planting new sod is a quick fix. When compared to the plantation of grass by the seed, which can take months to develop, you have to wait for some time.
Generally, it is advised to wait for at least two weeks after you have planted your new sod. The period may differ in every case, depending upon when the root system of the sod develops.
To establish a strong root system, your new sod needs time. If you walk on your lawn while the roots of the new sod are developing, you are threatening the chance of success.
It’s not difficult to check if the new sod has established a root system or not. You can check that by simply lifting a corner patch. If there is little or no resistance in lifting the patch, it means that the roots have not yet fully developed. If the root system has been developed, there must be a great resistance by the patch.
Developing A Strong Root System
Here are a few things that need to be taken care of to get a well-developed root system within no time:
- The first step in developing a strong root system is preparing the soil before plantation. It will have a great effect on the holding capacity of the root system as well as its longevity.
- Adequate irrigation is required for sod survival.
- Depending upon the level of rainfall and hours of direct sunlight, keep watering your new sod for the first few weeks. Don’t overwater as more than required water levels can prevent the formation of the root system.
- If, while watering, you notice gaps between the sod patches, it might be due to them shrinking because of a shortage of water. Increase the watering sessions to prevent them from shrinking.
- Most people who plant a new sod do not know about this step, but your new sod requires mowing. After about one week of your sod being planted, mow your lawn by walking softly on the sod.
- Cut back on watering about two days before you plan to mow your sod.
- During the first growing season, slowly and gradually reduce the watering sessions to one or two longer watering sessions.
- You need to follow all the directions given by the sod installer.
Is It Fine To Walk On New Sod?
The answer to this question depends on how newly planted your sod is. If it is only a week or two old, you need to avoid walking on it. This is because, in the developing stage, the sod is highly sensitive to external pressure factors.
Your new sod will be ready for light foot trafficking after about 14 days in which a shallow root system is established.
Why Cant You Walk On New Sod?
Walking on your new sod can cause pressure on the root system, which is being developed by the sod. It can also cause wear and tear, so that is why it is advised not to walk on it for at least two weeks after plantation.
If, for any reason, it is necessary to walk on the newly planted sod within the first few weeks of the plantation, walk while applying minimum pressure on the grass. Also, instead of using the same path for walking, try to change the routes so the chances of destroying the sod are minimized.
How To Water The New Sod Without Walking?
The fact that you don’t have to walk on your new sod while the roots anchorage takes place does not mean that you don’t have to water it. The best way to water your new sod without walking on it is by using a sprinkler.
If you don’t have a sprinkler system available, try watering the plants by placing your feet lightly on the new sod. There exists a chance that the new sod might move from its place and cause wear and tear. So extra care needs to be taken while stepping on the new sod for watering.
Can My Pet Walk On The New Sod?
No, you have to keep your pets away from your lawn after planting the new sod. They can quickly move the sod patches from their places and disturb them. Also, pet urine can easily seep down the sod, causing damage to the developing roots.
Conclusion
Planting new sod is way easier than planting seeds to grow grass on your lawn. It is a quick fix, but it also needs care in the initial period of planting. Prevent any kind of disturbance and foot trafficking to occur on your newly planted sod for good growth.
Water regularly and mow accordingly to get a lush green lawn in a few weeks. After reading this article, now you know the answer to the question of when can you walk on your new sod.