The Ultimate How to Lay Turf Guide

Choosing the Right Turf for Your Lawn

Let’s get down to business. When it comes to achieving a stunning and functional lawn, selecting the perfect turf variety is essential.

Sir Walter Buffalo turf is an excellent choice for year-round colour, drought tolerance, and shade resistance. Tiftuf grass is a beautiful fine grass with the first Smart Approved Watermark and looks stunning.

However, Eureka Kikuyu grass is also a popular option among homeowners due to its rapid growth rate and durability. So, which one should you choose?

If you’re still unsure, no worries. We’ve got an excellent guide on how to pick the best turf type based on factors like climate, usage requirements, and maintenance preferences. Head over to our Turf Varieties Guide at Grech’s Turf Supplies to become a turf-choosing expert in no time.

Laying Turf: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you’ve chosen the perfect turf variety for your lawn, it’s time to lay it down.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Prepare the soil surface by removing any debris, rocks, or existing lawn.
2. Turnover and loosen your soil and add turf underlay on top, then level the soil surface. The turf underlay should be a depth of at least 10cm to ensure there is good drainage for your new turf.
3. Start laying the turf along a straight edge, such as a driveway or path. Avoid walking directly on the soil surface or newly laid turf to prevent any damage.
4. Stagger the joints of the turf in a brickwork pattern to ensure a seamless finish. Use a sharp knife to trim any excess turf along the edges. Make sure you butt the edges up well.
5. Water the newly laid turf thoroughly, making sure to soak it to a depth of at least 10cm. Water the turf daily and keep moist for the first 10 days to help the roots establish.

By following these simple steps, you’ll have a beautiful and healthy lawn in no time.

Soil Preparation for Laying Turf: The Foundation of a Healthy Lawn

Let’s delve into the depths of soil preparation for a successful turf laying experience. Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of laying turf, it’s crucial to prepare your soil like a pro.

Why? Proper soil preparation is the key to ensuring your new lawn has a strong foundation for growth.

• Completely clear the area to be turfed of rocks and other debris.
• Remove existing lawn and/or weeds.
• The easiest way to do this is by using a Knapsack Sprayer using Glyphosate (Roundup or Zero) no less than 14 days before laying new turf. The recommended rate to mix will depend on the product purchased.
• Rotary hoe or till the soil to a depth of 100mm.
• Assess soil type and condition. If the clay content in the soil is high add Gypsum.
• Test the pH level of the soiland if less than 7.0 add 500grams of lime per 1m² and incorporate into the soil.
• Continue to rotary hoe or till the soil to an even consistency.
• Rake over to achieve a smooth surface and remove any further debris that may have been brought to the surface through rotary hoeing.
• If the existing soil is not deep applying a good quality sandy loam (weed free) turf underlay consisting of 80% sand and 20% soil. The underlay should be laid to a depth 100mm and kept 25 – 30mm lower than paths, paving, driveways, and mower strips to allow the turf to finish at the height of the path.
• Apply Sir Launcher pre-lawn fertiliserto the underlay and lightly rake in.
• Use rake or timber straight edge to achieve final levels and grades. Take extra time to ensure an even surface as this will result in a better appearance and a more even mowing surface.
• If required, roll surface, and regrade levels.

A good quality turf underlay is desired to achieve the best lawn. The Sir Walter root system has been found as deep as 600mm in good soil.

Bonus Tip: Test Your Soil pH Levels.

Did you know that different types of grass prefer specific pH levels? That’s right.

For example, Sir Walter Buffalo thrives in slightly acidic soils (6.0-7.0), while Kikuyu prefers neutral conditions (around 7.0). So, grab a soil test kit and make sure your ground is ready to welcome its new green inhabitants.

Now that you’ve prepped the ground, it’s time to set down some lush, fresh turf. Ready for more tips on laying and maintaining your perfect lawn?

Check out Grech’s Turf blog for expert advice and inspiration.

Laying Out Your New Turf: A Step-by-Step Guide

Let’s start this project. Creating a beautiful lawn may seem intimidating, but with this helpful guide, you’ll be enjoying it in no time. Ready?

Let’s dive right in:

Unrolling Turf Efficiently

• Start from the longest straight edge e.g., driveway, path, paved area, or fence.
• Roll out turf and make sure all joins are butted tightly together with no overlapping.
• Rows of turf should be in a brick pattern when laid to reduce the incidence of water erosion especially on steep slopes and grades.
• If laying turf on slopes, lay rolls across slopes rather than down. If slopes are very steep you may need to hold roll in place with a gal stake until root growth stabilisers turf roll.
• Cut turf roll with a sharp knife or spade when laying around odd shapes, trees, or garden beds.
• Smooth out any air pockets in the turf by rolling or tamping to ensure that there is good contact between the roots of the turf and the soil.
• A light top dressing may be applied after laying to fill joins and level any depressions. Washed river sand or turf underlay should be used for the top dressing and should be no more than 10-12mm thick. The leaf of the turf should be visible after top dressing.
• The turf will require watering immediately after it has been laid. The turf needs to be soaked through, you can lift the turf to make sure the water is also wetting the soil.
• After the initial watering, the turf should be watered early morning and late afternoon and kept moist for approx. 10 days.
• After the first 10 days you should notice that the turf has taken root and cannot be lifted. At this stage watering can be reduced to every second day depending on the weather for a further 7-10 days until it becomes an established lawn.
• Once the lawn is established, one of the most important things to remember is not to over water. A deep water once per week is usually adequate to keep turf in a good condition. You will know when it is thirsty as the leaves will shrink.

Maintaining Proper Alignment & Tight Joints

• TIP #1: To avoid gaps or overlaps between rolls, butt all joints tightly together without stretching them too much. Remember – tight seams are key.
• TIP #2: If you need to make adjustments, lift the turf gently and reposition it. Avoid dragging or pulling as this may cause damage.

Remember to avoid walking directly on the newly laid lawn, as this can cause damage to the turf and soil surface. Once you’ve laid your turf, it’s important to water it thoroughly and regularly to ensure proper growth.

There you have it. A straightforward guide on laying out your new turf like a pro. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying your beautiful lawn in no time.

Tips for a Thriving Lawn After Laying Turf

So, you’ve laid your new turf – congratulations. But, the work doesn’t stop there. Maintaining your lawn is crucial to ensure its long-term health and beauty.

Here are some essential tips for proper post-installation care:

Watering Schedules for Optimal Growth

The first few weeks are crucial for establishing strong roots. Water your lawn daily during the initial phase, then gradually reduce frequency as your lawn matures. This will encourage deep root growth and help your lawn withstand drought conditions.

To ensure that the roots develop a deep root system well, it is better to apply one deep watering in lieu of frequent shallow watering. In an average Sydney summer, you should apply 2-3 deep waterings a week to an establishing lawn and 1 per week in winter depending on conditions.

Avoid watering in the evening and at night as the lawn will remain wet, and this can encourage fungus and disease – the best time to water is early morning when less water will be lost through evaporation.

Mowing Techniques Based on Grass Type

The turf roots should have established in about 140 days in warmer weather. You can test this by lifting the turf slightly and the turf cannot be easily lifted – the first mow should be left until the grass blade length is about 60-70mm in length.

Mow along the turf rolls until you are satisfied that the lawn has established and then for subsequent mowing vary the cutting direction to promote evenness. Make sure your mower blades are sharp to provide a clean even cut. The general rule of thumb for mowing is never to remove any more than a third of the blade length in any single mowing.

The optimum mowing height for most turf types is around 25mm. In winter it is advisable to increase the mowing height another 10-15mm.

Fertilising Your Lawn for Continued Health

A well-fed lawn is a happy lawn. Fertilise your lawn using slow-release granules or liquid feeds. This will provide your turf with the necessary nutrients to grow strong and healthy.

Prior to laying, the soil should be fertilised and again two weeks after installing, then every eight weeks for the first twelve months. Correct fertiliser recommendations vary depending on climate, region, and soil type. Generally, a slow released balanced NPK lawn food is best, such as Sir Walter Fertiliser.

It is best to spread your fertiliser with either a handheld spreader or a push along spreader. See our online store for our fertiliser spreaders.

Bonus Tip: Keep an Eye Out for Pests and Diseases

Regularly inspect your turf for signs of pests or diseases that could hinder growth. Catching these issues early will help you take appropriate action and keep your lawn in tip-top shape. By utilizing these straightforward strategies, you’ll be well on your path to having a lush, verdant lawn that will make the entire area envious.

Troubleshooting Common Turf Problems

It’s an undeniable fact that sometimes the desired outcome isn’t achieved. Even with the best care and attention, your new turf may encounter some common issues like pests, diseases, or uneven growth.

No worries. We’re here to aid you in spotting these issues early on, so that you can act quickly and prevent any lasting harm.

Identifying Common Pests Affecting your Lawn

A healthy lawn is a happy lawn, but unfortunately, pests love them too. Common culprits include grubs, and sod webworms that can wreak havoc on your precious grass. To combat these pesky invaders, apply natural or chemical treatments specifically designed for the type of pest affecting your turf.

Recognising Signs of Disease in Your Lawn

Disease outbreaks are no fun for anyone – especially when they attack our beloved lawns. Brown patches, rust spots, and powdery mildew are just a few common signs of disease. Treat affected areas promptly with fungicides or organic alternatives to prevent further spread.

Addressing Uneven Growth Patterns

Is your lawn looking a bit patchy or uneven? This could be due to poor soil conditions, inadequate watering, or even mower issues. To remedy this situation, try topdressing, air rating, adjusting your irrigation system, and ensuring proper mowing techniques are being used.

Remember: early detection is key. Keep an eye on your Lawn’s health, and take action when needed to maintain that lush green landscape you’ve worked so hard for.

Seasonal Lawn Care Tips: Adapting to Nature’s Changes

Let’s face it, your lawn is a living thing and needs different care depending on the season. To keep your newly laid turf looking its best all year round, follow these seasonal tips:

Springtime Preparations for Vibrant Summer Lawns

Step 1: Start by raking away debris, such as leaves and twigs that accumulated over winter.

Step 2: Apply a slow-release fertilizer to give your grass the nutrients it needs for healthy growth during spring.

Step 3: Begin mowing at a higher setting, gradually lowering the blade height as temperatures rise throughout the season.

Summer Care Tips to Combat Heat Stress

Tip: Increase watering frequency during hot summer months but water early in the morning or late evening to minimise evaporation loss.

Winter Tasks Promoting Winter Resilience

Bonus Tip: Remember, each turf variety may have specific seasonal care requirements. Be sure to consult our helpful experts at Grech’s Turf when you purchase your new turf.

No matter the season, adapting your lawn care routine will ensure a healthy and attractive landscape all year round. Happy gardening.

FAQs in Relation to Lay Turf Guide

Lay Turf Guide: Tips for Homeowners, Renovators, and Landscaping Contractors

If you’re looking to install new turf, it’s important to follow a step-by-step guide to ensure success. Here are some tips to help you lay turf like a pro:

Choose the Right Grass Type

Before you start laying turf, consider the climate and usage needs of your lawn. Some popular grass types include Sir Walter Buffalo, Tiftuf Bermuda, and Eureka Kikuyu turf. Choose a grass type that will thrive in your situation.

Prepare the Soil Properly

Remove any debris and weeds from the area where you’ll be laying turf. Loosen the topsoil layer using a rake or tiller tool. If needed, add a quality turf underlay to improve drainage and soil quality.

Install an Efficient Irrigation System

Choose a watering method that works best for you and your lawn, an Automatic Irrigation System with pop ups and a rain sensor to help save on water, sprinklers or manually water.  Make sure your irrigation system is installed properly before laying turf.

Lay the Turf

When laying turf, start by unrolling the sod pieces onto the prepped surface. Be sure to cut precisely around any obstructions. Stagger the brickwork-style rows, starting each row with a half piece of sod to offset the joints from one another. Making sure they are butted up closely together.

This method ensures even coverage and promotes better root establishment between adjacent turf rolls.

Water and Maintain

After you’ve laid the turf, water it regularly according to recommended schedules based on the grass type. Follow proper watering and mowing techniques to keep your lawn healthy and green.

For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips, refer to our detailed Lay Turf Guide above. Whether you’re a homeowner, renovator, or landscaping contractor, our step-by-step guide will help you achieve a beautiful and healthy lawn.

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