LAWN TURF PREPARATION AND AFTERCARE                 

If you’ve taken the time to invest in a new garden and lay new turf then you’ll understand that it needs time to knit with the soil.

Once it’s taken root, though, it’s now time to care for your lawn to give it the best chance possible of it becoming a green, healthy garden that everyone can enjoy.

LAYING YOUR TURF

Before you lay your turf there are a few key steps to take. Preparation is everything when it comes to laying turf, so make existing grass is fully removed with a spade or turf cutter. Turn over your soil to a depth of approximately 15cm and clear the area of debris such as stones and weeds.

Apply a pre-turfing fertiliser and rake the soil to provide a smooth surface, making sure it’s firm, but not too compact. When laying your turf remember not to stretch it, and keep edges close to each other.

WATERING YOUR NEW LAWN

When it comes to maintaining your new lawn regular watering is key to any success you may have. If you have access to a sprinkler system then even better; try and consistently water each area of your new lawn for approximately 30 minutes at a time.

Make sure edges and corners don’t miss out – watering the entirety of your lawn is essential to how well it beds into the soil. If your turf is close to pathways or the side of your home make sure it gets a little bit more water, as reflected heat can dry those areas out quicker.

Watering your lawn will also depend on weather conditions. Don’t overwater it if it’s raining; if possible lift up pieces of turf early to see if the water is penetrating the turf effectively.

NEW LAWN MAINTENANCE

The first three or four weeks are critical when it comes to a new lawn. If possible try not to walk on it or put unnecessary weights onto the turf while it’s bonding with the soil. The turf’s roots knit within the first few weeks making it an essential time for the future of your garden.

After laying the turf and waiting for a few weeks, you can look to mow it, preferably on a higher level as mowing new turf on lower settings presents the danger of scalping. It’s also advisable not to use a strimmer during this time as the grass is still establishing itself.

The best times to lay new turf are during the spring and summer months, with colder conditions and a lack of light during autumn and winter months not doing much to benefit a new garden.

If there are a couple of uneven patches on the turf where the soil has become a bit lumpy then don’t be scared to roll it to make it more even.

Above all, though, the advice is simple. Give it time to knit, give it plenty of water, and remember to enjoy it when it’s ready to use!