The best time to fertilize new sod is typically about 30 days after installation. This waiting period allows the sod to develop enough roots to effectively use nutrients, preventing damage from fertilizing too soon. Before that, the focus should be on consistent watering rather than immediate fertilization. Here are key fertilization guidelines for new sod:

• Wait 30 days after laying sod before the first fertilizer application.
• Use a starter fertilizer with balanced nutrients or higher phosphorus content (e.g., 16-16-16 or 10-20-10) to promote root development.
• Apply fertilizer at a rate of about 0.5 to 1 pound of nitrogen per 1,000 square feet.
• Water the sod thoroughly immediately after fertilizing.
• After the initial fertilization, continue with monthly applications during the growing season for optimal growth.

If the sod was fertilized before installation, the first post-installation feeding should still wait until about the 30-day mark to avoid overwhelming the new grass. In cooler seasons or dormant periods, it's best to delay fertilization until active growth resumes. For new sod care, watering is the critical priority in the first few weeks, with fertilization starting once roots are well established and the grass is actively growing.