Sod Care and Maintenance Tips for Minnesota Homes
- Clark Companies
- May 14
- 3 min read
Updated: May 23
Sod Care and Maintenance Tips for Minnesota Homes
Sod Care and Maintenance keeps Minnesota lawns green despite harsh winters and humid summers.
Proper watering schedules prevent shallow roots and disease in your new sod.
Balanced fertilization boosts growth without promoting weeds.
Seasonal mowing heights protect sod and lawn health year‑round.
Commercial property managers save long‑term costs by following the same core principles.
Minnesota weather can punish your lawn, yet consistent Sod Care and Maintenance allows residential and commercial lawns to thrive. By mastering watering, mowing, fertilizing, and seasonal tasks, homeowners and property managers protect their investment and enjoy curb appeal in every season.
Sod Care and Maintenance Essentials for Minnesota Grass Lawns
How to Water New Sod in Minnesota
For best results, water your new sod in the early morning and again in the evening. When temperatures are cooler, water 1–2 times per day. In hotter weather, increase to 2–3 times daily.
Morning watering: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Second watering (afternoon or evening): 20–30 minutes
Third watering (only in extreme heat): 20–30 minutes
Before each watering, check the soil moisture in the area where the sod was installed. The ground should feel soggy. If it has recently rained, always check moisture levels before watering again to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization Fundamentals
Sod comes installed with fertilizer so it should not need further fertilizing the first season. As you begin the second year with your new lawn, apply a slow‑release, nitrogen‑rich fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer. Avoid summer midday applications, which can burn the lawn. Always sweep granules off hard surfaces to prevent runoff into lakes and rivers.
Timing Mows for Peak Health
Wait 2–4 weeks after your new sod is installed before mowing to give it time to establish. Once the lawn is growing well, set your mower blades to 3 inches in the spring and fall, and raise them to 3.5 inches during the summer to help protect roots, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds. Always keep mower blades sharp—ideally, sharpening them monthly—to avoid tearing the grass, which can lead to disease. Avoid removing more than one-third of the grass height in a single mow, as this can stress the lawn. Also, be sure to mow only when the soil is dry to prevent forming ruts with the mower wheels.
Seasonal Tasks for Long‑Term Success
Spring: Aerate compacted areas, dethatch thicker than half an inch, and repair winter damage.
Summer: Monitor moisture, treat isolated pests quickly, and limit heavy foot traffic on saturated soil.
Fall: Overseed thin patches, apply winterizing fertilizer, and remove leaves weekly.
Winter: Mark plow paths to prevent turf scalping and minimize salt near grass edges.
Commercial and Property Management Considerations
Large sites often combine sports fields, common greens, and shaded courtyards. Use weather‑based controllers to fine‑tune irrigation across zones. Implement a mowing schedule that avoids peak tenant activity. Additionally, contract periodic soil testing to maintain consistent nutrient levels without over‑fertilizing. Proper scheduling reduces complaints, lowers water bills, and extends turf life.
Trust Reliable Resources and Professional Support
When lawn care projects go beyond your weekend capacity, it's time to call in the pros. Clark Companies offers professional aeration, overseeding, and irrigation services designed specifically for Minnesota’s soil and climate. Ready for a custom lawn care solution? Contact us to get started.
By following these practical steps, Minnesota homeowners and property managers can maintain lush, healthy sod that withstands everything from summer barbecues to harsh winter conditions.
