If you just installed fresh sod, you’re probably nervous about messing it up. You’ve watered it religiously and now you're staring at it wondering: Can I mow yet? Are those weeds? What’s normal?
You’re not alone. Here’s the deal—straight from the advice of lawn care pros who’ve done this a hundred times.
When Should You Mow Fresh Sod?
If it’s been about 3–4 weeks, and the sod looks like it’s growing well, you’re probably good to mow. But timing is just part of it. Here's what to do:
Check root establishment: Gently tug at a corner. If it doesn’t pull up easily, it’s rooted.
Start with a high cut: Set your mower to 3.5 to 4 inches. Cutting too short early on can stress it.
Use a push mower if possible: It’s gentler. Riding mowers can pull up corners if the roots aren’t deep enough yet.
Stick to high cuts all summer: Cutting tall (3.5"–4") keeps the grass healthier and more drought-tolerant.
Want more guidance on blending new sod with the rest of your yard? See our guide on how to deal with clumpy, uneven grass.
Are Those Weeds in the Sod?
If you see odd-looking growth sticking up, especially if it looks like little seed heads, relax. That’s not necessarily a weed. Grass drops seed heads naturally when it matures.
Seed heads aren't always weeds: It’s your lawn going through a normal cycle.
That said, if you do spot weeds starting to pop through, don’t panic. You just laid the sod—this is normal. Your best bet right now is patience and mowing high, not spraying herbicides.
For long-term weed control, bookmark this: Tired of weeds taking over? Here’s how to win the fight.
Mowing Tips for the First Few Months
New sod doesn’t behave the same way as an established lawn. It’s hungrier, more sensitive, and it needs time to toughen up. Here’s a solid starter game plan:
Don’t bag your clippings (unless you see thatch or clumps). They return nitrogen back to the soil.
Avoid turning sharply with mowers. You don’t want to rip up edges.
Rotate mowing patterns weekly so the blades grow straight and healthy.
Looking for help boosting growth after the install? Here’s how to encourage thick, healthy grass without guesswork.
Fertilizer Talk: When to Feed New Sod
After about 4 to 6 weeks, once the sod has rooted well and been mowed at least once, you can start thinking about a light fertilizer application.
But don’t go overboard. Too much nitrogen early on can burn the lawn or trigger patchy growth.
Aim for a balanced fertilizer like 16-4-8 or something similar.
Apply lightly and follow with deep watering.
Worried about applying too much or choosing the wrong product? Here’s why your grass may turn lime green after mowing — and how to avoid it.
Planning Ahead: Don’t Forget the Business Side
If you’re doing this for a client or plan to manage multiple properties, it’s smart to think ahead about your setup and coverage.
These tips will keep you out of trouble and protect your reputation as a pro who delivers.
Mow High, Stay Patient, and Let That Sod Settle In
When in doubt, let your lawn breathe. Keep watering, mow tall, and avoid aggressive treatments. Sod takes time to lock in—but once it does, it rewards you with a thick, uniform yard that holds up for years.
Keep checking sprinkler coverage, avoid heavy traffic early on, and don’t stress over every little patch or pop-up weed.
Want more DIY help or looking to sharpen your lawn care skills? Start with identifying weeds vs. grass, fight off weeds the right way, and boost lawn growth with proven methods.