How to Keep Your Sod Healthy as Temperatures Rise

As spring gives way to the warmer months in North Carolina, homeowners and landscapers alike begin to shift their attention from planting to maintaining. At Southern Sodgrass, we know that fresh, healthy sod is an investment—and just like any investment, it requires care and attention, especially as the temperatures start to rise. Whether you’ve recently installed sod or are preparing your lawn for the summer heat, this guide will help you keep your turf vibrant, lush, and thriving.

Start with Strong Roots

The health of your sod starts beneath the surface. Sod that’s been properly installed and rooted into the soil is much more likely to withstand heat, foot traffic, and dry conditions. If you’ve just laid new sod, make sure it receives adequate water during the first 2–3 weeks to encourage strong root development.

At Southern Sodgrass, we provide fresh-cut, locally grown sod, ensuring that it arrives ready to take root in North Carolina’s soil and climate. Once those roots are established, your sod will be much more resilient to rising temperatures.

Master the Art of Watering

One of the most common mistakes homeowners make during warmer months is either overwatering or underwatering. The key is consistency and timing.

• Water Early in the Day: Watering in the early morning (between 6–9 AM) allows moisture to soak into the soil before the sun evaporates it. Evening watering can promote fungus due to excess overnight moisture.
• Adjust Based on Conditions: As temperatures rise above 80°F, your lawn will require more frequent watering. Established sod generally needs 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week, while newly installed sod may require daily watering for the first couple of weeks.
• Watch for Signs of Stress: If your lawn begins to dull in color, feel crispy underfoot, or show footprints that don’t bounce back, it’s likely too dry.

Mow Carefully and Consistently

Mowing is essential, but doing it improperly can damage your sod—especially during hotter months.

• Never Cut More Than One-Third of the Grass Height: Cutting too low weakens the grass and exposes it to sun damage. Maintain a height of 2.5 to 3 inches, depending on your grass type.
• Keep Your Mower Blades Sharp: Dull blades tear the grass instead of cutting it cleanly, which can lead to browning and disease.
• Leave Clippings (Sometimes): Grass clippings can act as natural mulch, helping the soil retain moisture and returning nutrients into the lawn.

Fertilize Smartly

Spring and early summer are important times to feed your lawn. But when done incorrectly, fertilizing can do more harm than good.

• Use a Slow-Release Fertilizer: These provide nutrients over time, helping grass grow evenly and resist stress.
• Avoid fertilizing in Extreme Heat: Doing so can burn your lawn. Aim for fertilizing in late spring or early morning when temperatures are cooler.
• Test Your Soil: Knowing your soil’s pH and nutrient levels helps you choose the right fertilizer and avoid overapplication.

Southern Sodgrass can provide recommendations for fertilizers that work best with the specific sod types we offer, such as Bermuda, Zoysia, and Fescue.

Protect Against Weeds and Pests

A healthy, dense lawn is your best defense against weeds and pests—but as temperatures rise, so do the risks.

• Apply Pre-Emergent Weed Control: This prevents summer weeds like crabgrass before they sprout. Be sure to apply it early enough in the season.
• Monitor for Insects: Grubs, chinch bugs, and armyworms can all wreak havoc during warm months. Look for brown patches or turf that lifts easily.
• Spot Treat Weeds: Pull them by hand or use targeted treatments. Avoid broadcast weed killers unless necessary, especially during heat waves.

Aerate If Needed

If your lawn feels compacted or water isn’t soaking in well, aeration might be necessary. This process involves removing small plugs of soil to allow better airflow, water, and nutrient absorption.

Early to mid-spring is the best time for aeration in North Carolina, but if you missed that window, consider scheduling it for early fall.

Partner with Southern Sodgrass for Expert Help

Keeping your sod healthy as temperatures rise doesn’t have to be stressful. At Southern Sodgrass, we don’t just deliver top-quality sod—we help our customers maintain it for long-term success. With premium, fresh-cut sod, local delivery, and expert advice tailored to North Carolina’s climate, we’re your one-stop shop for all things turf.

Ready to Refresh Your Lawn?

If your lawn needs a boost this season, or if you’re looking to install new sod, give us a call or request a free quote today!

📍 Serving Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem, Durham, Raleigh, and more!
📞 (336) 996-4763
🌐 southernsodgrass.com