How to Mow New Sod

Set the deck of your mower to the proper height to mow the lawn. Most lawn grasses need to be mowed at a minimum of 2 to 3 inches in height. This height is enough for the grass to shade weed seeds, and prevent them from sprouting and growing. Individual sod types have specific recommended mowing heights. For example, mow Kentucky bluegrass to a height of 2 1/2 inches and tall fescue to 3 inches tall. The ideal height for Bermuda grass is 1 inch.

Mow your lawn four weeks after the sod is first established. This gives new sod lawns time to put out roots and grow before mowing. Push the mower over the lawn in a grid pattern to cut the lawn evenly.

Check your lawn once weekly and mow whenever the total length of the grass blades increases by one-third. Mow so that you remove one-third of the total height of the grass. You must mow more frequently fast growing sod. For example, you will need to mow Bermuda grass approximately twice weekly. Zoysia may only require mowing once per week.