FloriTurf FAQ

WATER: Sod needs to be irrigated daily, in the morning, for the first week after installation, then every other day for the second week and third week. On the fourth week, sod can be watered as needed, paying special attention to weather conditions (drought, tropical storms, frost, etc.). After sod is established water responsibly, forgo watering altogether if you’re getting rain.

FUNGUS: During the hot and humid temperature’s (June, July, August, September), it is recommended that sod not be installed in shady areas. We will not guarantee sod installed under these conditions as it will almost always get fungus! It is also recommended that a fungicide be applied during the summer due to the hot and humid temperatures to prevent fungus problems.

FERTILIZER: It is recommended that sod not be fertilized for 6 weeks after installation. It is also recommended that any sod fertilized during the months of June, July, August, and September be fertilized with a very low-nitrogen fertilizer. Except for Centipede, fertilize in spring and fall. Centipede should be fertilized only once a year in the spring. Use a slow-release product that’s labeled for your type of grass.

WINTER FROST: Even though sod turns brown with frost during the winter, it is still necessary to continue irrigating your lawn. Make sure you thoroughly water your lawn prior to a frost/freeze warning.

MOW REGULARLY: Never take off more than 1/3 of the blade at a time. Mowing too close will stress the grass and make it more susceptible to disease, insects and weeds. Allowing your grass to grow too long will allow weeds to grow and spread. Sharpen your mower blades at least twice a year.

When temperatures are in the high 70s or above, watch for signs of chinch bugs. Symptoms of damage first appear as patches of dead grass in areas where heat is radiated (next to sidewalks and driveways). The condition is often mistaken for drought damage.

• Sod webworms and fall army worms are usually found from June until cold weather. Symptoms will be seen as foliage may be almost completely stripped off in patches and have a yellowish-brown appearance similar to drought damage. Many times you will see moths near bushes and trees.
• Mole crickets damage turf grass when they tunnel through the soil near the surface and loosen the soil so that the grass is often uprooted and dies due to the drying out of the root system. They also feed on grass roots causing thinning of the turf. Mole crickets are strongly attracted to lights and it is suggested that any bait applied be done during a full moon and after a rain or watering of the area.

We suggest that you check with the County agents or your pest control company regarding application of mole cricket bait or insecticides and that you carefully follow label directions.