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Signs You Are Overwatering Your New Sod

14th January 2016

You need to water new sod often to ensure it takes root, but watering it too much is possible. Overwatering can make your sod soggy, and this problem could prevent it from creating a robust root system. When sod has too much water, it is vulnerable to damage from disease, fungus and insects. If you start to see the signs of excessive watering, skip one or two of your watering sessions. You want the sod to be moist, not soggy.

Failure to Knit

After 1 to 3 weeks, your sod’s roots should begin to knit into the soil. You should observe the sod starting to grow 1 week after installation. Carefully lift one corner of the sod, and if it is difficult to lift, the roots are taking hold. If it’s still easy to lift the corner with gentle force, you could be over watering.

Root Rot

Too much watering could cause the roots of your sod to rot. During your new sod’s first week, you should look at its roots. Any sign of rot means you could be using too much water, or you’re watering too frequently. Because new sod requires watering daily, you have to pay close attention to the amount you are watering to avoid overdoing it.

Soggy Soil

Before the roots begin to grow, lift up the sod after a regular watering. You should touch the sod and the soil with your finger, and both should feel damp but not muddy. The sod shouldn’t feel like a sponge full of water; if it does, that’s a sign you are giving it too much water. The danger of overwatering is that the roots will never grow into the soil below.

Moisture Depth

The moisture depth of the soil beneath the sod is a good indication of whether or not you are over watering. Directly after sod installation and until the roots take, you should water the sod enough to moisten the top inch of the underlying soil. After the sod starts to establish its root system, you should water the soil down to 6 inches of moisture but reduce the number of times you water. Any deeper, and you are most likely over watering.

If you’re interested in installing sod on your property or you need help with the care and maintenance of your new sod, call Superior Sod & Garden Supplies today.

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