Installing a new lawn is an exciting step toward a lush, green landscape — but the first 30 days are the most critical. Proper care during this period ensures your grass develops strong roots and thrives for years to come. At Destiny Landscape, we help homeowners maintain their newly installed grass so it stays healthy, vibrant, and picture-perfect.
Week 1: Watering Is Everything
During the first week after installation, your new sod is highly vulnerable. It needs consistent moisture to help the roots bond with the soil below.
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Water 2–3 times per day, ensuring the soil stays damp but not flooded.
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Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to water.
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Avoid watering at night to reduce the risk of fungal growth.
💡 Tip: Gently lift a corner of the sod to check for moisture underneath. It should feel cool and slightly wet.
Week 2–3: Gradual Adjustment
As the grass begins to establish roots, you can start adjusting your watering schedule.
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Reduce watering to once daily, but for longer durations to encourage deep root growth.
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Avoid walking on the lawn during this phase — footprints or equipment can damage new roots.
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If you notice yellowing, increase watering slightly until color returns.
This stage sets the foundation for long-term resilience and drought tolerance.
Week 4: Mowing and Light Feeding
By the fourth week, your grass should be well-rooted and ready for its first trim.
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Mow when the grass reaches about 3–4 inches tall.
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Make sure your mower blades are sharp to prevent tearing.
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Cut only the top third of the blades — never too short.
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Apply a light starter fertilizer to encourage healthy growth (avoid heavy nitrogen-based products).
💡 Pro tip from Destiny Landscape: Always mow when the grass is dry to prevent clumping and root disturbance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Overwatering: Can lead to fungus and shallow root growth.
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Underwatering: Causes the sod to shrink or die before rooting.
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Heavy Foot Traffic: Avoid walking, placing furniture, or pets on the lawn for at least 3–4 weeks.
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Skipping Maintenance: Check daily during the first 10 days — small issues can become big problems fast.
Partner with Destiny Landscape
Caring for new grass takes patience, precision, and knowledge of your local climate. Destiny Landscape provides expert lawn installation, irrigation setup, and maintenance services to help you achieve a flawless green lawn from day one.
If you recently installed sod or are planning a landscape renovation, explore our full range of landscaping services to ensure long-lasting beauty and performance.
📞 Contact Destiny Landscape today to schedule your consultation and keep your lawn thriving.
