How to Sod a New Lawn

When the grass reaches 3 inches high, it's time to mow it down to 2 inches. Because your new lawn is still fragile, use a walk-behind mower (rather than the heavier ride-on type) for the first trim, and be sure to bag the clippings. Though you'll probably want to grow it higher in the summer months—to encourage a deep root system and to shade out weeds—always aim to cut off one-third of the grass's length anytime you mow, and be sure to use a sharp blade.

Allow your lawn about three to four weeks' growth, then feed it again with a starter fertilizer to make up for nutrients that washed away during the heavy watering schedule.