New Lawn Installation Care Guide

Just planted grass or installed new sod?

Whether you're working with a fresh seeding or recently laid sod, the first few weeks are crucial to help your lawn take root and thrive.

At Lawn Busters Landscaping, we want every customer, and every DIY homeowner, to succeed. That’s why we’ve created this easy-to-follow guide packed with professional tips for watering, mowing, fertilizing, and weed control during the early stages of lawn establishment.

💧 How to Water a New Lawn for Healthy Root Growth

Watering is the single most important step in establishing your new lawn.

The First 6 weeks:

• Water twice daily: Once in the early morning (before 9AM) and once in the late afternoon or early evening (after 4PM).

• Avoid watering between 11AM–4PM, especially in hot weather, to prevent scorching.

• Run sprinklers for 15–20 minutes per zone, or until the topsoil is visibly moist but not pooling.

• Use a timer to stay consistent - irregular watering can stress young grass.

After 6 weeks:

• Transition to 3 - 4 times per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature.

• Monitor your lawn: If the grass blades curl or turn dull green, increase watering frequency.

Pro Tip: Morning watering is best long-term - it helps prevent fungal issues by allowing grass to dry during the day.

✂️ When to Mow New Grass (and What Height to Cut It)

Timing is key - mowing too soon can ruin your new lawn.

• Wait until the grass reaches 3 - 4 inches in height before your first mow.

• Use sharp mower blades and cut no lower than 2.5 to 3 inches.

• Never remove more than 1/3 of the grass blade in a single mowing.

• Avoid mowing when the lawn is excessively wet or dry.

Note for Seeded Lawns: It can take several weeks for grass to grow to mowing height. Be patient - early mowing can pull out unrooted seedlings or sod.

🌿 When & How to Fertilize a New Lawn

Fertilizer fuels growth, but starting too early can backfire.

• Begin fertilizing about 30 days post-install or after the third mow, whichever comes first.

• Choose a slow-release, balanced fertilizer - something like 10-10-10 or 16-4-8 is ideal.

• Reapply fertilizer every 6 - 8 weeks through early November (depending on your region).

• Water before and after fertilizing to protect your lawn from burn and ensure proper absorption.

❌ Safe Weed Control for Newly Seeded or Sodded Lawns

Weeds are common in new lawns - but early treatment requires care.

• Avoid herbicides for at least 90 days after planting grass seed or laying sod.

• Hand-pull weeds as needed during the first few months.

• After 90 days, spot-treat with a selective herbicide that is safe for young lawns (we’re happy to make a recommendation).

Helpful Tip: After your first growing season, consider aerating your lawn in the fall. Aeration reduces soil compaction and allows water and nutrients to reach deeper roots.

🔄 Long-Term Lawn Care Tips for Lasting Results

Once your lawn is established, stay consistent to keep it lush and green.

• Mow regularly, keeping grass around 3 inches tall.

• Water deeply but less frequently, encouraging deeper root growth.

• Fertilize seasonally with slow-release products.

• Aerate annually to keep soil loose and healthy.

• Overseed in the fall to fill in thin areas and improve density.

📍 Serving Northeast Ohio Homeowners

Based in Northeast Ohio, Lawn Busters Landscaping has over 15 years of experience installing and maintaining lawns that look great year-round. We offer lawn installation, aeration, overseeding, weed control, and more.

💬 Need Help or Have Questions?

We’re here to support your lawn care journey!

📞 Call us at (440) 539-8962

📧 Email us at Office@lawnbusters-landscaping.com

🌿 Proper care is the key to a thick, healthy lawn.

Don’t leave your investment up to chance. Follow these steps and enjoy a yard you’ll love for years to come.