The key to establishing new sod is to keep it properly watered for the first month. Immediately after installing the sod water it thoroughly making it spongy to the step. The new sod should be kept thoroughly wet to a depth of 4” to 6” and watered 3 to 5 times a day during the first 7 to 14 days depending on the season. Lift a corner of the sod to determine the depth of moisture. The first week, it is very important to keep the new sod damp. During this time stay off the sod so it can take root and you do not sink in and leave depressions from your footsteps. During hot weather sprinklers should run several times a day so the new sod never dries out. If allowed to dry out the sod will shrink, brown, and can die. The roots of your new sod will penetrate the soil faster and root down sooner if properly watered. At the end of week 2, dry up the yard enough so you can mow.