New Sod Care Guide – Watering, Mowing & Maintenance (Calgary)
Proper care in the first few weeks is critical to ensure your new sod establishes strong roots and stays healthy, green, and vibrant. Follow this new sod care guide for best results in Calgary’s climate.
1️⃣ Watering Your New Sod
All grass requires proper watering to ensure good health and long-term durability. For newly installed sod, water evenly and slowly so moisture penetrates the soil without runoff.
Avoid:
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❌ Frequent light watering (causes shallow root growth)
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❌ Overwatering (prevents oxygen from reaching roots)
After establishment:
Watering requirements will vary based on weather and soil conditions. Monitor soil moisture regularly. Most Calgary lawns need approximately 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall.
🌱 Manderley Less Water Sod can thrive with up to 50% less water than standard sod once established—making it ideal for Calgary’s dry climate and water restrictions.
2️⃣ Mowing New Sod
Do not mow until sod is firmly rooted (usually 10–14 days).
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Set mower blades high
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Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade at a time
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Avoid heavy foot traffic during early establishment
3️⃣ Fertilizing
Your new sod contains starter nutrients. Wait 3–4 weeks before applying additional fertilizer. For best results, use a slow-release fertilizer designed for Calgary soil conditions.
4️⃣ Ongoing Lawn Maintenance
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Keep foot traffic light for the first 2–3 weeks
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Avoid heavy equipment on new sod
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Repair any lifting edges immediately
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Top dress lightly if minor gaps appear
5️⃣ Monitoring Lawn Health
Watch for:
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Dry spots
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Yellowing
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Lifting edges
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Poor root attachment
If sod lifts easily, increase watering slightly. If soil feels muddy, reduce watering.
📅 New Sod Watering & Mowing Schedule (First 3 Weeks)
W = Water
M = Mow (only if sod is rooted)
| Week | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 | Day 6 | Day 7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | W | W | W | W | W | W | M |
| Week 2 | W | W | W | M | |||
| Week 3 | W | W | W | M |
💡 Pro Tip for Calgary Lawns
After Week 3, aim for deep watering 1–2 times per week depending on weather and rainfall.
Most lawns need about 1 inch of water per week, including rain.
Manderley Less Water Sod can thrive with up to 50% less water once established.
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