Installing new sod is one of the fastest ways to transform your yard into a lush, green space — but it’s not as simple as just laying down grass and walking away. At Sunshine Sod, we’ve helped countless homeowners throughout Florida troubleshoot their sod problems, and we’ve noticed the same mistakes come up time and time again.
Whether you’ve just ordered fresh sod delivery or you’re preparing for a full Florida sod installation, knowing what not to do is just as important as following the right steps.
1. Skipping Soil Preparation
One of the biggest mistakes you can make with new sod is skipping proper soil prep. Sod needs to establish deep roots quickly, and that’s only possible when it’s laid over well-aerated, nutrient-rich soil. Compacted or poor-quality soil prevents roots from growing, leading to patches of dead grass and long-term issues.
Before sod installation, remove debris, till the top few inches of soil, and test for pH balance and nutrients. We recommend using compost or organic amendments to give your sod the best possible foundation.
2. Watering Incorrectly (Too Much or Too Little)
Watering new sod isn’t about flooding it or letting it dry out — it’s about maintaining consistent moisture. Overwatering can suffocate the roots and invite fungus, while underwatering can dry out the sod before it has a chance to establish.
For Florida homeowners, this usually means watering 2–3 times a day for the first week, then gradually reducing frequency while increasing the depth of watering. Your sod should stay evenly moist, not soggy.
3. Mowing Too Soon
We get it — nothing looks better than a freshly mowed lawn. But mowing new sod too early can pull up the grass before it has rooted, setting your progress back weeks.
Wait until the grass is at least 3 to 4 inches tall and fully anchored to the soil. You can test this by gently tugging on a few blades. If the sod lifts, it’s not ready to be mowed.
4. Using the Wrong Fertilizer
New sod has specific nutrient needs. Applying a standard high-nitrogen fertilizer too early can burn the young grass or stimulate fast top growth at the expense of root development.
Instead, use a starter fertilizer formulated for new lawns. This will support steady root establishment without overwhelming your sod. We can recommend the best blend for Florida’s soil conditions and climate.
5. Walking on It Too Soon
New sod may look ready to enjoy, but it’s not strong enough to handle foot traffic right away. Walking on fresh sod compresses the soil, shifts the grass, and prevents proper root development.
We suggest keeping pets, children, and heavy equipment off the lawn for at least 10–14 days. If possible, wait 3–4 weeks before resuming regular use of your yard.
Avoid the Mistakes. Trust Sunshine Sod.
A beautiful, healthy lawn starts with smart sod care — and avoiding these common mistakes makes all the difference. At Sunshine Sod, we make sod installation in Florida easy with expert guidance, fresh sod delivery, and tips tailored to your yard and lifestyle.
Need Help With Your Sod?
Whether you’re installing sod yourself or looking for full-service sod installation in Florida, we’re here to help. Contact Sunshine Sod today to get a quote or ask about your lawn’s specific needs. We’ll help your new grass take root and thrive.
