Keep reading for signs you are overwatering your sod.
You need to water new sod often to ensure it takes root, but overwatering it is possible. Overwatering can make your sod soggy, which could prevent it from creating a strong root system. When sod has too much water, it is vulnerable to damage from disease, fungus, and insects. If you start seeing signs of excessive watering, skip one or two of your watering sessions. Keep reading for more signs you are overwatering your sod.
Root Rot
Overwatering could cause the roots of your sod to rot. During your new sod’s first week, you should inspect its roots. Any sign of rot means you could be using too much water or watering too frequently. Because new sod requires watering daily, you have to pay close attention to the amount you are watering to avoid overdoing it.
Mushrooms or Fungus
Mushrooms sprouting in your yard is a common sign that you are overwatering your lawn. Other fungi may appear as discolored patches around the yard. These are also a sign that your lawn may be waterlogged. Cut back on watering and use appropriate fungicides to control this problem.
Soggy or Squishy Soil
Before the roots start to grow, lift the sod after a regular watering. You should touch the sod and the soil with your finger, and both should feel damp but not muddy. The sod should not feel soaking wet; if it does, it is a sign you are giving it too much water. Overwatering is dangerous because the roots will never grow into the soil below.
Increased Thatch Buildup
Thatch can actually be beneficial for your yard! This is a layer of partially broken-down grass created after mowing your lawn. Organisms in the soil break down thatch over time, which provides nutrients to the grass. However, overwatering can prevent thatch from breaking down properly. Eventually, the thatch can build up so much that it begins interfering with your lawn’s growth.
Insect Infestations
Stubborn insect infestations happen most commonly when there is an accumulation of thatch in your yard. A thick layer of thatch protects insects from predators and pesticides. If bugs have started to take over your lawn, try de-thatching, applying pesticide, and cutting back on watering to prevent it from happening again.
Get Your Yard Ready for Fall!
Since our inception from a humble 30-acre field to over 4,500 acres of turf grasses, Quantico Creek Sod Farm is now the LARGEST SOD FARM IN THE TRI-STATE AREA. Our service areas cover Pennsylvania, Maryland, DC Delaware, Virginia and Northern North Carolina. Order early and order often to ensure the best service possible. Contact us through our online page. Please find us at 27616 Little Lane, Salisbury, Maryland 21801. Our phone number is 410-726-6103, and our fax number is 410-742-6550. Speak to Jason Anderson for Turf Grass Sales. Reach him by email at jason@quanticocreeksod.com. Finally, follow us on social media on Facebook, LinkedIn, and our blog.