Sod Establishment Guide

🌱 Sod Establishment Guide – After the First 3 Weeks (Calgary Lawn Care Tips)

Direct Landscape Supply

Welcome to the Direct Landscape Supply Sod Establishment Guide for Calgary homeowners and landscapers. This guide is designed for after your new sod has completed the initial 3-week establishment period. Once your lawn is rooted, proper watering, mowing, and fertilizing habits are key to maintaining a healthy, green lawn throughout Calgary’s changing seasons.

Use this guide for ongoing lawn care best practices, watering schedules, and maintenance tips to keep your sod looking its best long after installation.

💧 Watering Your Lawn After Establishment

Once sod is established (typically after 3 weeks), the goal is to encourage deeper root growth by watering less frequently but more deeply.

✅ Best Watering Practices

Water deeply and evenly so moisture penetrates 4–6 inches into the soil
Avoid frequent, shallow watering, which leads to weak root systems
Avoid overwatering, which can cause root disease and poor oxygen flow
Water early in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk

📅 Recommended Watering Schedule (Established Sod – Calgary)

Water 1–2 times per week, depending on temperature, wind, and rainfall
Most Calgary lawns require approximately 1 inch of water per week, including rain
During extreme heat, an additional light soak may be required

🌿 Manderley Less Water Sod can thrive with up to 50% less water than standard sod once established, making it ideal for water-conscious properties.

🌿 Fertilizing After Establishment

1️⃣ Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once sod is established (typically 3–4 weeks after installation).

2️⃣ Fertilize 2–3 times per growing season for best results (spring, early summer, fall).

3️⃣ Always water fertilizer in thoroughly after application.

4️⃣ Avoid fertilizing during extreme heat or drought stress.

⚠️ Over-fertilizing can burn roots and damage turf.

✂️ Mowing an Established Lawn

1️⃣ Begin regular mowing once sod is firmly rooted.

2️⃣ Maintain grass height between 1.5”–3.5” for Kentucky Bluegrass.

3️⃣ Never remove more than 1/3 of the blade height in one mowing.

4️⃣ Keep mower blades sharp to prevent tearing and disease.

5️⃣ Avoid mowing when the lawn is saturated or muddy.

🛠 Ongoing Lawn Maintenance Tips

Minimize heavy foot traffic on recently established lawns
Repair lifted edges promptly
Watch for dry spots or uneven growth and adjust watering
Aerate annually to improve water and nutrient absorption
Overseed thin areas in spring or fall if needed

⚠️ Warning Signs to Watch For

If you notice yellowing, curling blades, dry patches, or shrinking sod edges, your lawn may be under-watered.
If soil feels constantly soggy or spongy, reduce watering frequency.

🌾 Looking for Farm-Fresh Sod in Calgary?

Whether you’re repairing bare spots or planning a new lawn project, Direct Landscape Supply offers premium sod with convenient Calgary delivery.

👉 View our Sod Supply: Calgary Sod Supply