How to Keep New Sod Corners From Curling

New sod brings instant transformation to a yard, creating the look of a lush, established lawn almost overnight. However, shortly after installation, some homeowners experience the corners of the sod pieces curling up—exposing soil, breaking uniformity, and potentially affecting how well the grass takes root. These lifted edges can make your new lawn look patchy and unfinished, even when most of the grass appears healthy and green.

The most common reason for this issue is dry sod, especially around the corners, which tend to lose moisture faster than the center. However, even well-watered sod can curl under certain conditions. Curled corners often signal overlooked problems like poor soil contact, air pockets, or sod installation errors. Understanding what causes these edges to lift—and how to fix them early—will help your lawn grow evenly and successfully.

Why Sod Corners Curl: The Problem Usually Starts with Dryness

New sod is extremely vulnerable to drying out—especially at the corners. These areas naturally dry faster than the center of the sod pallets because they’re more exposed to air and often make less contact with surrounding soil. Once they begin to lose moisture, they can peel up or become stiff and brittle.

Look for signs like:

• Corners lifting and curling upward

• Yellowing grass blades at the edges

• Sod pieces that feel light or dry when you touch or lift them slightly

The solution? Prioritize deep watering from the very beginning. A good rule of thumb when caring for new sod is to water it deeply enough to moisten the top 3 to 4 inches of soil, especially during the first 10 to 14 days after installation. This helps sod roots grow downward and establish contact with the soil. You’ll likely need 2 to 3 watering sessions per day in the beginning—morning, midday (if possible), and late afternoon, depending on the weather and your irrigation system. A timed sprinkler can help maintain consistency, but hand-watering corners may be helpful to prevent them from drying out between cycles.

Moisture Isn't the Issue? Here's What Else Causes Sod Corners to Curl

Sometimes your new lawn looks green and healthy on the surface, and you’re giving it all the water it needs—but the corners are still curling. In these cases, the issue usually stems from poor installation or soil contact problems, not moisture alone. Common culprits include:

• Lack of soil contact

• Air pockets underneath the sod

• Poor installation techniques, such as not pressing down the edges

Poor Soil Contact and Air Gaps Can Lift Sod Edges

Even if your sod is moist, it can still curl if the bottom layer isn’t making solid contact with the soil. This happens when the ground isn’t prepped properly or when the sod isn’t pressed down during or immediately after installation. Air pockets prevent roots from reaching the soil, allowing corners to dry out faster.

How to fix it:

• Use a lawn roller after installation to press the sod firmly into the soil.

• Step gently on curled corners to reestablish contact, especially after watering when the sod is soft.

• Add a thin layer of topsoil or compost to weigh down the lifted edges and help retain moisture.

If left alone, these gaps can lead to uneven growth or even root rot if excess moisture gets trapped without proper root penetration.

Gaps and Uneven Trimming Can Cause Dry Edges

Proper sod spacing is crucial for retaining moisture and preventing weeds. If sod pieces are installed with visible gaps, the exposed edges are more likely to dry out quickly, curl, or fail to root. Inconsistent or rough cuts made during trimming also leave flaps that peel back more easily.

Always trim your sod to fit snugly together like puzzle pieces. There should be no bare soil showing between seams. Tight-fitting pieces retain moisture more effectively, creating a smooth, seamless surface.

Foot Traffic Too Soon Can Disrupt Rooting

New sod needs time to root firmly into the soil. If someone walks over it—especially along the edges—it can compress the ground unevenly or lift the corners unintentionally. This creates an opening for air and dryness, which can stop sod roots from developing as they should.

To prevent this, avoid walking on the sod for the first 2 to 3 weeks. Use visual markers or light fencing to keep children, pets, or guests off your new turf. Schedule non-essential activities, like mowing or lawn games, only after the sod shows signs of rooting—when it resists gentle tugging.

Curling Can Still Happen Weeks After Installation

Even after your sod has started rooting and appears to be growing well, curling at the corners can still occur. At this stage, the issue is often caused by uneven settling of the soil, underlying compaction, or changes in your watering habits that leave certain areas drier than others. These conditions prevent proper root development at the edges, making the sod more likely to lift or curl over time.

To correct this, gently lift the curled section and examine the soil beneath. If it feels hard or compacted, loosen it lightly with a hand rake to improve contact. Then, reposition the sod, press it firmly into place, and water it thoroughly. You can weigh it down with a small object or a light layer of topsoil to help it stay flat. This simple fix supports healthy growth and helps the sod re-establish its connection with the soil.

Start with Quality Sod for Long-Term Success

A crucial step to preventing issues like curling is to begin with high-quality grass sod from a trusted sod farm. Bethel Farms provides professionally grown sod, harvested with care to increase success during establishment. Because sod is essentially mature grass, it has a greater chance of developing strong roots right from the start—especially when paired with proper installation and consistent sod care. Compared to starting from seed, sod establishes more quickly and is more resilient to changes in weather, giving your new lawn a stronger foundation from day one.

Before installing, always prepare the site thoroughly: test and improve soil quality, level the ground, and ensure proper drainage to prevent soggy soil and other conditions that can sabotage growth. Check out our more comprehensive guide on laying new sod.

FAQs

1. Can I just step on the lifted corners to fix them?

Yes, gently stepping on curled corners can help re-establish soil contact—especially right after watering when the sod is soft and pliable.

2. Is curling a sign my sod is dying?

Not necessarily. If the sod is still green and has moisture, curling is often just a sign of poor contact or early stress. Fixing it early prevents long-term issues.

3. What’s the best time to water sod to prevent drying at the edges?

Early morning is ideal, followed by light watering in the afternoon if needed. Use timed sprinklers for even coverage and hand-water trouble spots.

4. Will curled corners flatten on their own over time?

Sometimes—but it’s best to press them down and monitor closely. If they stay lifted, they could dry out and die, especially during hot weather.

Final Thoughts

Curled sod corners might look alarming, but they’re usually an easy fix with the right care. Whether the cause is dryness, poor installation, or early foot traffic, each issue can be corrected with attention and consistency. By focusing on deep watering, firm soil contact, and gentle handling in the first few weeks, you’re setting your new lawn up for long-term success.

From choosing premium grass sod for sale at a reputable sod farm to establishing a reliable irrigation system, every step in your sod care routine plays a role. When done right, your lawn will root evenly, grow strong, and deliver the thriving lawn you’ve been hoping for.