Did you know that the perfect time to have a new sod installation is in the cooler months? While many people think the opposite, freshly laid seeds can actually flourish in fall and winter. Here is why it’s a great idea:
Why Should I Install Sod During Fall and Winter?
Here in Tampa, our temperatures of around 52-61 between November and January are ideal. With no snow and barely any frost, we benefit from far better sod installation conditions than the rest of the country.
So why is it such a good idea to get a sod installation in fall and winter?
Better Water Retention
In Tampa, we have enough sunlight to promote healthy growth during cooler weather. Cooler weather allows the sod to retain water far better than the rest of the year. In summer, condensation is aggressive and can soak up water before it gets a chance to penetrate the turf.
However, it’s crucial not to overwater during your lawn during the winter periods – once or twice a week is best. So if you’ve got a sprinkler with a timer, flick that dials towards the best watering times and let nature get to work.
- Early in the morning is the best watering time. Ideally, before 9 am to minimize evaporation.
- Avoid watering in the night to prevent mildew growth.
Lower Water Bills!
Because that water is being retained better with less evaporation, you’ll be using less water and that means you’ll be saving money thanks to your lower water bills. Sod installations in the summer will have the opposite effect and leave you paying extra.
To Protect the Grass
Fresh sod needs to be protected while it grows. So the damage caused by children playing and barbecue activities makes summer less than ideal.
In the cooler months, the use of your lawn is likely to be significantly less than the rest of the year. So getting sod installed now can make this process much easier!
Get a Jump on Your New Lawn!
If you install sod in fall or winter, you get a jump on establishing your lawn. Not only are you likely to use less water, but come spring, your lawn will be shining while the neighbors will just be getting started.
Protection from The Sun
Most people think that hot weather makes for the best time to lay new sod. Wrong.
While it’s safe to have a new sod installation in Tampa in the summer, it does come with some risks. The grass can dehydrate and potentially die from heat stress if not irrigated correctly – especially if temperatures exceed 90 degrees.
In winter, this happens far less, if ever. We’ve never had a problem installing sod in Tampa during the cooler months.
Don’t Panic if Your Sod is Off-Color
Don’t panic if the sod is brown during the winter. It’s not dead; it’s dormant, which is just like hibernation. It will look off-color but replenish its green shine in the coming months.
Sod Installation Company Near Me
Contact All Phaze Irrigation today if you’re looking for a new sod installation in Tampa, Florida.
As experts in sod service, drainage and irrigation, we can advise you on how to get the lawn of your dreams and install it perfectly this winter.
