If you've been staring at patches of dirt in your yard and dreaming of a lush, green lawn, you're not alone. Sod installation is one of the fastest ways to transform your outdoor space—but timing is everything.

At Epperson Landscape, we get asked this question a lot:
“When should I install new sod?”

And our answer is simple:
After the last late-season freeze—but before summer heat kicks in.

Let’s break that down so you can plan with confidence.

Why Timing Matters for Sod

Sod might look like an instant lawn, but it still needs time to grow roots and settle into its new home. For that to happen, it needs just the right conditions—not too cold, not too hot, and definitely not frozen.

Installing sod too early in the season (while overnight freezes are still possible) can shock the new grass and keep it from rooting properly. On the other hand, laying sod in the middle of a blazing Tennessee summer? That’s asking for a stressed-out, thirsty lawn that’s tough to keep alive.

That’s why there’s a sweet spot, and we aim for it every year.

Step One: Wait Out the Freezes

Spring can be tricky in Tennessee. One week it's sunny and warm, the next we’re dipping back into the 30s overnight.

Even if the days feel mild, wait until the risk of late-season frost has passed—usually sometime in late March to mid-April, depending on the year.

If we lay sod too soon, a surprise cold snap can damage those tender roots before they’ve had a chance to settle in.

Step Two: Don’t Wait Too Long

Once we’re in the clear from freezes, the clock starts ticking. We want to get that sod installed before the summer heat hits full swing—ideally by late May or early June.

Why? Because:

• Sod needs consistent moisture during the first few weeks.
• Hot weather dries out the soil faster (and runs up your water bill).
• Heat-stressed sod is more prone to disease and bare spots.

By installing in spring’s mild window, you give your new lawn the best chance to root deeply, grow evenly, and stay strong all summer long.

Pro Tip: Prep Makes Perfect

Great sod installation isn’t just about timing—it’s also about site prep. Before we lay a single piece, we’ll make sure your yard:

• Has proper grading and drainage
• Is free of weeds and debris
• Has healthy, loosened soil ready to receive new roots

This part is just as important as the sod itself—and it’s something our crew takes seriously every time we’re on-site.

When You Work With Epperson, We Handle the Hard Stuff

We know your yard is an investment—and we treat it that way. When you call Epperson Landscape, you’re not just getting sod. You’re getting:

• Honest advice on the best time to install
• Full-service prep and installation
• Follow-up care tips to keep your lawn thriving

We’re based right here in Tennessee, so we know the soil, the weather, and the real-life challenges that come with growing grass in our climate.

Ready for a Fresh Lawn This Season?

If you’ve been thinking about sod, now’s the time to start the conversation. We’re already scheduling installs for the spring window, and spots fill up fast.

Contact us here to get a free estimate or ask us your sod questions—we’re happy to help.

Let’s turn that patchy yard into a beautiful green space you can actually enjoy this year.