To get a lush, green lawn, you should lay down fresh sod. But what if the beautiful green-colored carpet turns brownish or gets peeled off the ground, soon after? It’s disheartening when you find the effort and money put into the sod being wasted, and it does not grow roots.
You are not alone in facing this issue, though. It’s important you understand the reasons why the sod may not be shaping up the way it should.
There are six reasons your sod might not be growing roots and flourishing:
01. Poor Soil Readiness
To grow a healthy lawn, you need healthy soil. Do not make the mistake of laying sod directly on nutrient-deficient or compacted soil. Sod requires fertile, loose soil so its roots can establish properly.
What’s the solution?
- Dig the soil to 4–6 inches before you lay the sod.
- Ensure the soil pH level is 6.0–7.5. Use sulfur or lime if needed.
- Add compost to enrich the soil and improve drainage.
02. Too much or too little water
After you lay the sod, watering it is crucial, especially in the first few weeks. If you don’t water the soil well, the roots will dry out. Excess water, on the other hand, will suffocate them and lead to fungal diseases.
- Inadequate watering turns the sod bluish-gray and makes the grass blades brittle and dry.
- Overwatering leads to mushy soil and sod rot.
What’s the solution?
- Water deeply and regularly during the first two weeks.
- Water in the morning to prevent fungal growth and evaporation.
- Use a moisture meter to check soil moisture levels.
03. Improper Installation
Without proper installation, sod will not survive for long. Mistakes like uneven soil contact, wide gaps between sod rolls, or failing to remove existing grass before laying the sod can hinder root development.
What’s the solution?
- Remove all existing vegetation.
- Ensure sod pieces do not overlap and are fitted tightly together.
- Use a lawn roller to eliminate air pockets beneath the sod.
04. Excess Traffic
New sod needs time to grow roots, and it is not ready to endure active pets, playful kids, or heavy foot traffic.
What’s the solution?
- Avoid walking on the sod for at least two weeks after laying it.
- Do not mow until the grass reaches 3–4 inches and roots firmly established.
- Use a sharp mower blade and trim no more than one-third of the grass height.
05. Diseases and Pest Invasion
New sod often attracts pests and falls prey to fungal diseases, especially when overwatered. These can damage the young roots prematurely.
What’s the solution?
- Watch for pest signs like brown patches.
- Use suitable insecticides or fungicides after consulting a lawn care professional.
- Improve lawn drainage and regulate watering if required.
06. Choosing the Wrong time
Timing is crucial for sod installation. If you lay sod during extreme cold or heat, the grass gets stressed and root development suffers.
What’s the solution?
- Plant cool-season grasses like Kentucky bluegrass or fescue in fall or early spring.
- Opt for warm-season grasses like Zoysia or Bermuda in early summer or late spring.
- Avoid installing sod during extreme temperatures or snowfall.
Summing it up
Don’t get discouraged if your new sod fails to root properly. One or more of the six issues above might be the reason. Focus on proper soil preparation, consistent watering, the right timing and correct installation techniques for better results. Avoid stressing the grass, and you’ll enjoy a healthy, thriving lawn for years to come.
