You’ve just laid down fresh sod grass lawn and want to ensure it gets the best possible care.
Installing new sod grass can be a rewarding project when done right.
Basic lawn care after you lay sod will give your grass the best chance for success.
The most important part of caring for new sod is; giving your grass lots of water.
Proper watering is a task that takes consistent time and effort.
The most efficient way to water your turfgrass is with lawn sprinklers.
Sprinklers make watering easy.
Having the right irrigation system for your lawn can lead to a healthier and greener yard.
But what kind of sprinkler should you use?
The perfect watering system should be tailored to your individual watering needs, from coverage area to water pressure.
Luckily, there are plenty of great options out there for you to choose from.
best sprinklers for new sod
There are multiple types of sprinklers available with different features.
The type of sprinkler you need depends on the size of your yard, the type of grass you have in your yard, and the type of soil in your yard.
How to Choose the Best Lawn Sprinklers For New Sod
Choosing the right sprinkler features for your newly installed sod grass can mean the difference between a lush lawn and one that’s struggling. A quality lawn sprinkler will help you ensure that your sod grass gets enough water to take root and grow properly. But, with so many contrasting types of sprinkler, it can be extremely confusing and difficult to decide which one is best.
When selecting a lawn sprinkler for new sod, take these factors into account:
- The specific water requirements of the type of grass you have.
- The size of your lawn area that needs irrigation.
- The location of your water supply.
- The water pressure and amount of water you need to use.
Spray Coverage
Theoretically, the most important factor to consider is spray coverage. Spray coverage is how far and how many times the water will spray. The wider the water spread, the more area your sprinkler can cover in one pass.
Spray patterns are also important when choosing a sprinkler; some may be better for certain locations than others. For example, use a 90-degree or 180-degree angle or adjustable spray pattern if you have a square or rectangle area. For circular areas, use a cone spray pattern.
Coverage distance
Coverage distance is determined by the type of irrigation system and the water pressure you have at your property.
Start by calculating the square footage of the area that needs irrigation.
Once you know the area and square footage, you can accurately calculate how many sprinklers you need.
You’ll need one sprinkler per 100 square feet of lawn.
In-ground sprinkler heads usually deliver longer-distance spray coverage.
However, if your lawn is larger than that, then consider adding more sprinklers.
Sprinkler Durability
Sprinkler durability is a key consideration when you’re buying one.
When you spend money on a sprinkler, you want to ensure it will perform effectively.
The best sprinklers are those that are well-made and can be used over and over again without breaking down or malfunctioning.
Some factors to consider when examining the durability of a specific model include the following:
- The materials used to make the device; metal is generally stronger than plastic.
- A warranty; if your manufacturer offers an extended warranty, it’s generally indicative of higher-quality products.
- Reviews; if many people have complained about poor durability in particular models, it may be best to avoid them.
- Consider heavy-duty models that are built to last.
Water Management
Use a sprinkler that conserves water.
Look for a sprinkler that uses less than 1.5 – 3.5 GPM when possible.
Types of Sprinklers
There are many types of sprinklers on the market:
Pop-up Sprinklers
Pop-up sprinklers come in in-ground and above-ground models.
They’re available in several different sizes, but all function similarly.
They have a spring that causes the head to rise above ground level when it’s triggered by water pressure, then fall back down when it runs out of water.
Pop-up nozzles are ideal for watering new sod grass because they create tiny mist and fine water droplets that spread over a wide area and penetrate deeply into the soil to reach roots efficiently.
Oscillating Sprinklers
Oscillating lawn sprinklers are a convenient and efficient way to water your garden or lawn.
These sprinklers bring the convenience of watering your garden with a push of a button, allowing you to spend less time worrying about the condition of your yard.
Oscillating sprinklers operate just like pop-ups; when triggered by water pressure, they rise above ground level; when they run out of water, they fall back down again.
They offer superior coverage for larger areas compared to other types of sprinklers and help conserve water by delivering precise amounts in specific spots..
Rotor Sprinklers
Rotor sprinklers are a great option for watering newly-sodded grass.
They provide an even, uniform distribution of water across the entire area, ensuring that all parts of your lawn get the moisture they need.
These rotating sprinklers are specifically designed to work with any size yard and in any climate, making them a reliable choice for many homeowners.
With rotor sprinklers, you can customize irrigation settings to meet the needs of your specific landscape.
This allows you to set each zone individually according to how much water is needed, considering soil type and slope as well as sun exposure and wind resistance.
The adjustable nozzles on these systems allow you to target areas that need extra attention while avoiding those already receiving adequate hydration.
Pulsating Sprinklers
Pulsating sprinklers are one of the best types of sprinklers for new sod grass.
They are designed to provide even, uniform water coverage over a large area; and are ideal for newly laid sod.
Pulsating sprinklers come with various features such as adjustable spray patterns and arc lengths, allowing you to tailor their performance and placement to your needs.
The rhythmic pulsating action of the spray head helps distribute the spray evenly.
This helps reduce runoff and conserve water by ensuring that only the necessary areas receive water.
In-ground vs. Above ground lawn sprinklers
There are two types of lawn sprinklers: in-ground and above-ground.
In-Ground Sprinkler Systems
An in-ground sprinkler system is a form of irrigation composed of a complex network of piping, valves, nozzles, risers and sprinkler heads that distribute water to designated areas.
In-ground sprinklers are more durable, water efficient and can be adjusted to fit your yard.
The system is buried underground and protected from the elements to help ensure it will work when you need it.
All components are designed to work together to deliver the right amount of water at the right time.
They all operate by pushing water through the pipe using pressure created by your home’s water supply; and come with various types of heads, including rotary heads, oscillating, and pulsating.
Installing a system can be complicated, but the process can be much simpler with the right product and knowledge.
Above-Ground Sprinklers
Above-ground sprinklers are an ideal irrigation solution for newly installed sod grass.
This system is easy to install, cost-effective, and can be set up effectively to provide a consistent source of hydration for your new lawn.
Above-ground sprinklers help promote healthy growth through even water distribution around the sod, reducing stress on the turf and leading to a lush, green landscape in no time..
An above-ground sprinkler system acts like an automatic sprinkler hooked up to your home’s water supply or hose.
Above-ground sprinklers are easier to install since they don’t require digging into the soil. This makes them ideal for people who aren’t confident with their DIY skills or don’t want to deal with any potential damage caused by digging too deep into the ground (like breaking pipes).
Best In-Ground Sprinkler System
The best in-ground sprinkler system can be installed quickly and easily.
It provides water for your entire yard and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.
It comes with an anti-siphon valve to prevent water loss due to backflow, it has an LCD display that makes programming easy even if English isn’t your first language, and it won’t clog like some other systems do over time!
Here are the best in-ground irrigation systems.
- Rain Bird Sprinkler System
- Hunter Irrigation System
- Orbit Sprinkler System
- Toro Sprinkler System
The Rain Bird SST Series irrigation timers are easy to use and program. is excellent because it has all the features you’ll need in a top-of-the-line sprinkler system.
Best In-Ground Sprinkler System
The best in-ground sprinkler system can be installed quickly and easily.
It provides water for your entire yard and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance.
It comes with an anti-siphon valve to prevent water loss due to backflow, it has an LCD display that makes programming easy even if English isn’t your first language, and it won’t clog like some other systems do over time!
Here are the best in-ground irrigation systems.
- Rain Bird Sprinkler System
- Hunter Irrigation System
- Orbit Sprinkler System
- Toro Sprinkler System
The Rain Bird SST Series irrigation timers are easy to use and program. is excellent because it has all the features you’ll need in a top-of-the-line sprinkler system.
Best Above-Ground Lawn Sprinklers
Above-ground lawn sprinkler systems are great if you don’t want to dig trenches and your yard.
They’re easy to install, cost-effective, and don’t require professional installation.
The best above-ground lawn sprinklers are the ones that get the job done with minimal effort.
They use less water than other types of sprinklers; and won’t cause damage to your yard or home.
They should provide ample coverage for your entire yard.
- Orbit Brass Impact Sprinkler
- Melnor Oscillator Sprinkler
- GrowGreen Rotating Lawn Sprinkler
- Gilmour Spot Sprinkler
Best Lawn Sprinkler for Large Lawns
A single sprinkler will not be sufficient if you have a large yard.
The best lawn sprinklers for new sod grass will cover most of the area without breaking the bank.
These types of lawn sprinklers include:
- Rain Bird
- Hunter
- Orbit
Best Lawn Sprinkler for Medium Lawns
For medium lawns, any of the in-ground or above-ground options will work for your lawn.
Best Lawn Sprinkler for Small Lawns
Consider a simple portable garden hose sprinkler or hand-held sprinkler if you have a small lawn.
These are easy to use and inexpensive, making them the perfect choice for anyone who wants their yard to look great without spending much money.
Because they’re portable and lightweight, so they can be moved around easily.
This makes them ideal for medium-sized yards with enough water pressure from your home’s faucet but not so much that it would break if someone accidentally bumped into it while walking past!
Use a little sprinkler for smaller lawns or water by hand. A hand-held sprayer on your hose makes an easy-to-use sprinkler you can use.
The Orbit Gear Driven Portable Lawn sprinkler:
Best Lawn Sprinklers for New Sod
Rain Bird In-Ground Automatic Sprinkler System Kit
This set from Rain Bird is a great choice if you’re looking for an easy way to set up an automatic sprinkler system. It allows you to create a new irrigation system in minutes and comes with everything you need for installation.
You’ll get the controller and timer included with this kit and other adapters that make it compatible with 3/4 inch pipes and 50 PSI maximum pressure.
The controller can be easily programmed via an app on your smartphone or tablet, so you can adjust the watering schedule whenever necessary—all without having to leave home!
Orbit Brass Impact Sprinkler
The Orbit Brass Impact Sprinkler is a good choice if you’re looking for an easy-to-install sprinkler that won’t break the bank. It’s made from solid brass and has an adjustable arc pattern, so you can adjust it to your lawn’s needs and ensure it’s watering evenly across your grass.
If you have a large lawn, this will be more than enough; the Orbit Brass Impact Sprinkler flow rate is also adjustable; and can spray water up to 40 feet away!
The Orbit Brass Impact Sprinkler is easy to install and can be done within minutes after reading the instructions on how to do so.
Melnor Oscillator Sprinkler
The Melnor Oscillator Sprinkler is an excellent choice for lawns of all sizes, from small to large. So whether you need to water a medium-sized lawn or keep a huge one healthy and green, the Oscillator will get the job done. It’s easy to install, so you can use it any season without hiring someone else to do it for you. You can also adjust its height depending on how much water your plants need at any given time of year, making sure that everyone’s happy!
Gilmour Spot Sprinkler
The Gilmour Spot Sprinkler has four wheels and can easily move around any area of your yard. It’s also adjustable and can be set at any angle or distance from the house. The design is simple: attach it to a hose, turn on the water pressure and point it where you want to water!
The Gilmour Spot Sprinkler is best suited for small gardens or lawns under 1/4 acre; it’s not designed for large areas because of its limited water capacity (about half an inch per second).
Conclusion: What is the Best Lawn Sprinklers for New Sod?
The best lawn sprinkler is the one that fit the needs at your property location. There are many types of sprinklers available for different situations.
For small yards, an above ground sprinkler will work fine. Get one that can connect to your hose. There are many brands available and you can find one at your local garden center, hardware store or big box store.
You can even order oline from Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Amazon.
If you have a large area, and don’t want to connect hoses everywhere; install an in-ground system.
You can choose from a variety of designs, including oscillating and impact rotors.
The choices include above-ground or in ground, plastic or metal, and other features such as durability and conservation.
