How to Lay Your Turf to Achieve the Best Results

Laying turf is a game of timing! Spring and summer offer the best conditions for your new green to settle in. Autumn is also a go, but remember, the cooler temps mean slower growth. We advise against winter installations—frost and snow are no friends to fresh turf!

Timing isn't just about the season. Once your turf lands at your doorstep, you've got a 24–48-hour window to get it down, weather permitting. Prepare your ground ahead of time—the effort you invest initially pays off in lush, even growth.

Step 1: Clear & Prepare

• Out with the Old: Strip away any old grass and weeds. Dig out about 1.5 inches of soil along with the vegetation.
• Prep the Soil: Use a spade to turn over the bare soil to a depth of 3-6 inches, breaking it up to enhance aeration and drainage. Larger spaces? A mechanical rotovator might speed things up, though manual digging works just as well.

Step 2: Perfect Your Base

• Compact and Level: Walk over the soil with your heels to compact it, then rake over multiple times from different directions to level. Remove any debris like stones or roots.
• Build Up: Now's the time to add topsoil if needed. Repeat compacting and raking until the surface is firm and even.

Step 3: Roll Out the Green Carpet

• Start Right: Begin turfing from the farthest point to avoid walking over fresh turf.
• Lay and Align: Roll out each turf strip snugly against the previous one, ensuring tight seams. Stagger the ends like bricks for a uniform look.
• Secure the Turf: Use the back of a rake or a board to press down the turf, focusing on the joints to ensure root-to-soil contact.

Step 4: Watering Wonders

• Soak It Up: Give your turf a thorough watering with a hose. Continue daily watering for the first 10 days to help the roots settle. Watering is best done when temperatures are cooler – in the morning or evening. If you are laying turf in summer, watering twice a day is recommended.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Lush Lawn!

• Keep Off: Avoid walking on your new turf for at least 10 days.
• Check the Roots: Lift a turf corner after 10 days to check for fresh, white roots penetrating the soil. Once established, you can reduce watering frequency.

• Fertilise Annually: Treat your lawn each spring to keep it vibrant and healthy.
• Regular Mowing: Keep your grass trim and tidy for the best appearance and health.