Laying turf at your home can transform your outdoor space into a vibrant and welcoming landscape. Whether you’re a homeowner dabbling in DIY projects, a tradie looking to refine your skills, or a business enhancing property aesthetics, mastering the art of turf laying is invaluable.
This comprehensive guide from our team at Australian Lawn Concepts will walk you through the process, ensuring you get professional results with your turf installation.
Understanding the Basics of Laying Turf
Before you begin, it’s essential to understand what makes turf laying successful. The key lies in preparation, choosing the right type of turf for your climate and soil, and caring for the newly laid turf post-installation.
Choosing the Right Turf
Selecting the appropriate turf involves considering your local climate, the soil type, and the amount of sunlight your lawn will receive. At Australian Lawn Concepts, we offer a range of turf types suited to various conditions, ensuring you find the perfect match for your home.
Preparation for Laying Turf
Proper laying lawn turf preparation is crucial and can significantly impact the health and longevity of your new lawn. Here’s how to prepare your site effectively for laying grass turf:
1. Clear the Area
Remove any existing grass, weeds, or debris. This might involve using herbicides or manual tools, depending on the area’s condition, whether it’s sandy loam or existing vegetation.
2. Improve the Soil
Conduct a soil test to determine its quality and nutrient content. Depending on the results, you might need to add topsoil or organic matter to improve soil base, fertility and drainage.
3. Level the Ground
Ensure the area laying your turf is level and smooth. This helps prevent water pooling and ensures an even growth pattern for your turf.
4. Compact the Soil
Lightly compact the soil to eliminate any air pockets and provide a solid base for the turf. Be careful not to over-compact instant turf, as this can hinder root growth.
Best Way To Lay Turf
With your site prepared, it’s time to lay the turf underlay soil. Follow these steps for the best results:
1. Lay the First Row
Start from a straight edge, such as a driveway or garden path. Roll out turf edges on the first turf strip, ensuring it’s flat against the soil with no air gaps.
2. Stagger the Joints
Like brickwork, stagger the joints of the turf strips. This helps prevent lines and assists in root establishment.
3. Trim the Edges
Use a sharp knife or edger to trim any excess turf around garden beds existing lawn,, paths, or obstacles.
4. Roll the Turf
Once all the turf is laid, use a roller to gently take fresh turf and press it down into the soil. This enhances contact between the turf roots and the soil, encouraging faster establishment.
Root Establishment and Maintenance
Watering
Water is critical in the early stages of turf establishment. Water your new lawn deeply immediately after installation to encourage deep root growth. Continue to water daily for the first couple of weeks, then gradually reduce the frequency as the turf establishes.
Fertilising
Apply a starter fertiliser during preparation and again a few weeks after laying the turf. This will provide essential nutrients to the turf delivery support growth.
Mowing
Wait until the turf is well-rooted before mowing. Typically, this is when the grass reaches about a third higher than your desired mowing height. Use a sharp blade to avoid pulling up the new turf on first mow.
The Best Time to Lay Turf
One of the best things about laying turf in South East Queensland and Northern New South Wales is that you can do it year-round. Our temperate climate is perfect for grass growth no matter the month. So long as you carefully monitor watering during the hot summer months and have the patience for slightly slower growth throughout winter, you can establish your lush new lawn at any time of the year.
Cost Considerations
The cost of laying turf varies depending on the turf type, the area size, and whether you require professional installation. Doing it yourself can save on labour costs, but investing in quality turf and proper soil preparation will pay off in the long run. We offer a range of services, from planning and supply to installation.
Partner with Australian Lawn Concepts
At Australian Lawn Concepts, we’re not just suppliers; we’re your partners in landscaping. We offer high-quality turf suited to a variety of Australian climates and provide expert advice on installation and maintenance. Whether you’re updating your backyard or embarking on a large commercial project, we have the expertise and products to ensure success.
Contact us for more information on our turf varieties and to get personalised advice for your turf laying project. Let us help you create a stunning green space that you’ll enjoy for years to come.