How to Mow After Fresh New Sodding (GTA Homeowners Guide)
So, you’ve just invested in a brand-new lawn and can’t wait to see it lush, Green, Thick and Healthy. But when it comes to mowing new sod, timing and technique make all the difference between a lawn that thrives and one that turns yellow or patchy.
Here’s how to handle that all-important first cut and the few that follow.
1. Don’t Wait Too Long for the First Mow
In the Greater Toronto Area, with proper watering, new sod can grow 4-6 inches in the first week (unless it’s been laid during dormancy or extreme heat).
That means waiting 2-3 weeks before mowing is too long. When grass gets overgrown and you remove more than one-third of the blade, it can shock the lawn and cause temporary yellowing or thinning.
Instead, plan your first mow about 7-10 days after installation—or as soon as the grass reaches roughly 4 inches tall.
2. Check That the Sod Has Rooted First
Before mowing, do a quick test: gently tug on a few corners of the sod.
If it resists and stays in place, it’s started to root and is ready for a careful cut.
If pieces lift easily, give it another few days and check again.
Always wait until the soil surface is firm and not soggy, so your mower doesn’t leave ruts or pull seams apart.
3. Use the Right Mower and Settings
Stick with a walk-behind mower only for the first six weeks.
Ride-ons are too heavy and can compact soft soil or shift seams until the roots fully knit together.
Set your mower to a high setting (about 3-3½ inches) and only trim the top third of the blade.
Move slowly, mow in straight lines, and avoid tight turns.
4. Keep the Blades Sharp
A clean cut helps new turf recover quickly. Dull mower blades tear the grass and leave brown, frayed tips.
If your mower hasn’t been sharpened recently, do it before that first mow -it’s worth it.
5. Bag the Clippings at First
During the first few mows, bag or rake up clippings instead of mulching.
The grass will be long, and thick clumps can block sunlight and trap moisture, leading to disease or uneven color.
Once you’re mowing frequently enough that you’re only taking off small amounts each time, mulching is great for recycling nutrients naturally.
6. Stay Consistent Going Forward
After the first few cuts, mow regularly enough to keep the lawn at about 3 inches tall.
Following the “one-third rule” prevents stress and encourages deeper roots.
In most GTA conditions, you’ll mow every 5-7 days in spring and fall, and a bit less during hot summer months when growth slows.
7. Wait Before Trimming or Edging
Avoid string trimming or edging the borders until the sod seams are fully knitted together, typically after 4-6 weeks.
Trimmers can easily scalp edges or tear seams early on.
When to Start Fertilizing New Sod
New sod needs a steady supply of nutrients to develop a strong root system and rich green color, but timing matters.
Avoid fertilizing immediately after installation, as new roots need time to establish before they can absorb nutrients effectively.
The best time to start fertilizing is about 3-4 weeks after installation, once you’ve mowed the new sod two or three times and the roots have anchored into the soil.
At LawnSavers, we use professional-grade, slow-release fertilizers designed specifically for newly sodded lawns in Ontario’s climate. Our experts know exactly when and what to apply – so your investment gets the healthiest possible start.
We’ll make sure your new lawn grows Green, Thick and Healthy from day one, using the right products at the right time.
Learn more about our lawn care programs and partner with the GTA’s most trusted lawn care team.
The Bottom Line
Mowing new sod properly is one of the most important steps in helping your new lawn settle in.
With the right timing, sharp blades, proper fertilization, and a gentle approach, your sod will root faster, stay greener, and grow into the Green, Thick and Healthy lawn you deserve.
If you ever need personalized advice or want help keeping your new lawn in top shape, our LawnSavers experts are here to help. Contact us or request a quote to partner with a local, family-run team that truly cares about your success.
