Many lawn care experts recommend waiting 30 days or more after installing new sod before applying fertilizer. However, it’s important to consider that newly laid sod is under stress after being harvested, transported and installed in its new environment. To help it establish successfully, it’s best to give it the necessary nutrients as soon as possible.
The Best Fertilizer for New Sod
When choosing a fertilizer for new sod, it’s important to avoid heavy nitrogen-rich products. The goal is to help the roots of the new sod grow into the new soil. Phosphorus and potassium are essential nutrients for the roots to establish themselves in the new soil without struggling. An even ratio of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus is recommended, such as 15-15-15 or 8-8-8.