The lawn is a key component to any garden. With it being the centre to most gardening and outdoor activities, you will want to ensure that when constructing and maintaining a new lawn, it is done correctly.
To help make this process as easy as possible, here are some tips for building a new lawn:
Preparation
Remove old turf and fix any gradient problems.
Aim to create a perfectly level seedbed, whether you are using seed or turf. The area will need digging over to loosen the surface soil and then any debris, stones and weeds should be removed, to leave a clear surface.
Construct a firm, flat surface by rolling the area or walking over it, breaking down any large lumps. Then with a fine rake or loot (special tool for levelling soil), level the area getting a nice flat surface.
Soil Replacement
Sometimes the quality of the existing soil isn’t workable and if this is the case a nutrient rich topsoil should be applied across the area at a depth of 25mm or 30mm. Furthermore, by adding topsoil it will enable the grass seed or turf to quickly get established. Earth Cycle’s Topsoil Supreme or Rootzone are all suitable for this application, available here.
Once the soil has been improved and the surface is level, the area is now ready to grass seed or apply turf. When laying the turf, it is best not to walk on the prepared soil, but instead work from a pair of short planks, allowing you to spread your weight.
As soon as your lawn is completely laid, water it generously, then be sure to water it daily (it should be moist, not sloppy). Also, try not to walk on it until the roots have bedded in, you’ll know once the roots have started to bed because you won’t be able to lift the corner of the turf as easily, this could take up to six weeks.
Turfing
Get hold of some high-quality rolls of turf to cover the entirety of your lawn. Make sure you have enough to spare. See our TGA quality standard turf here to find out more.
Place the turf in position, roll out and butt joints tightly together, ensuring no gaps are left.
Lay the following row butted up to the first so that joints are staggered, like a brick work pattern.
Repeat the previous step until all areas are covered.
Summary
As you’re working along the turf, we would recommend having a load of spare soil available, so that you are able to fill any hollows you notice as you lay. Earth Cycle’s Topsoil Supreme can also be used for this and is ideal for filling in any tiny gaps. Once finished, make sure the area is well watered and don’t hesitate to water again in dry spells, until the grass is well established. Most importantly, this will ensure that your new lawn is ready for everyone to enjoy.
Shop our turf products found in the turf products section here.
