Preparing for and Laying Turf
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Turf is probably best being installed by professionals, however it's good to understand the process - especially if you want your turf to stay looking its best long after the installation.
1. Soil Preparation
The area should be cleared and all weeds removed. If you use a chemical spray such as Glyphosate it's extremely important to wait 7-14 days after spraying before laying the turf.
Improving the soil isn't usually considered necessary, however if you intend to there are a few things to consider. Any landscape mixes shouldn't be laid directly on top of the soil but should instead be mixed through with the top 200mm of soil, to ensure that when the turf is laid it establishes a solid root system. It's also suggested that you should apply a wetting agent to the soil and water it in, as this will help the soil to retain moisture better.
2. Levelling the area
Less bumps, lumps and uneven patches you have on the ground before laying the turf will equal a smoother lawn afterwards. To help aid this you can remove any rocks or debris from the soil and should then smooth it to the desired levels.
The recommendation is that, after smoothing, the surface should be 25-30mm below any edging or pavers you might have. Once smoothed the soil should be quite firm - this can be achieved using rollers and by lightly watering the area.
3. Laying the turf
The first step is to find the longest edge, such as a fence line or your driveway, and run the turf in a straight line along it. You should then continue unrolling and laying the turf beside this first line in a staggered, brick-like fashion. It's important to have each section closely butted against the next - there should be no gaps.
Tip: If you're laying on a slope, position the turf across the slope, rather than in strips running up and down the hill. This will help to prevent water from running down the hill and away from your turf.
If you reach an edge or a sprinkler you may need to trim the lawn to fit around it. This can be done easily using a sharp knife or spade.
After the turf is laid, you can run over it with a roller to remove any air pockets and ensure it is sitting flat. A small amount of sand can be used as filler between the pieces of turf and will help to prevent the edges from drying out.
4. Watering
The first two weeks after laying your turf are its most crucial. In this time it needs to be watered frequently to help it knit together and establish a solid root system.
Within an hour after the turf has been laid it should be given a thorough water. After that you should water your lawn 2-3 times per day for the following week and then gradually ease this off over the next 7 weeks. You may want to consider laying your turf in Spring to take advantage of the cooler weather and better rain.
5. Maintaining your new lawn
The new lawn should be first mown between 1-2 weeks after laying. It is important to wait until the lawn has properly rooted and is secure. It should only be a trim - removing less than a third of the grass height - and the mower blade must be kept sharp.
Once the lawn is completely established it can be kept at the height you like. The lawn will need to be watered, although this will be dependent on your area's climate. You should also fertilise your lawn four times a year, watering immediately after to prevent the grass being damaged.
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