Installing garden grass, often in the form of turf, involves careful preparation and laying techniques to ensure healthy growth and a beautiful lawn. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Preparation is Key
- Choose Your Turf: Select a turf variety that suits your climate, soil type, and intended use (e.g., high-traffic areas).
- Timing Matters: Spring and autumn are generally the best times to lay turf because the weather is mild and the soil is moist. Avoid laying turf during extreme heat or frost.
2. Site Preparation
- Clear the Area: Remove existing grass, weeds, rocks, debris, and any large roots from the area where you'll be laying the turf. A spade or turf cutter can be helpful.
- Dig and Level: Dig over the area to a depth of approximately 15cm (6 inches). This loosens the soil and allows for proper root establishment. Remove any debris, large stones, weeds and old tree roots.
- Improve Soil Quality (Optional): If your soil is poor (e.g., heavy clay or very sandy), amend it with compost or topsoil to improve drainage and fertility. Incorporate the amendments thoroughly into the existing soil.
- Rake and Consolidate: Use a garden rake to create a level and even surface. Lightly compact the soil with a lawn roller or by walking over it, but avoid over-compaction. The surface should be firm but not rock-hard.
- Apply Pre-Turfing Fertilizer: A pre-turfing fertilizer provides essential nutrients to help the new turf establish quickly. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
3. Laying the Turf
- Start Strategically: Begin laying the turf along a straight edge, such as a path or fence.
- Butt the Edges Tightly: Lay the turf rolls snugly together, butting the edges and ends tightly to avoid gaps. Avoid overlapping the turf.
- Stagger the Joints: Similar to laying bricks, stagger the joints between rows of turf to create a stronger and more visually appealing lawn.
- Use Boards to Work From: Place timber boards (scaffold boards or gravel boards are suitable) over the laid turf to distribute your weight and avoid creating depressions as you work.
- Cut and Shape: Use a sharp knife or turf cutter to trim the turf around obstacles like trees, flowerbeds, or pathways.
- Roll the Turf: After laying a section of turf, gently roll it with a lawn roller to ensure good contact between the turf and the soil. This helps eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering and Aftercare
- Water Immediately: Water the newly laid turf thoroughly immediately after installation. The soil beneath the turf should be consistently moist.
- Water Regularly: Keep the turf consistently moist for the first two to three weeks, watering deeply and frequently, especially during dry weather. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal diseases.
- Avoid Walking on It: Minimize foot traffic on the new turf for the first few weeks to allow the roots to establish.
- First Mowing: After about two to three weeks, or when the grass has grown about 5-7cm (2-3 inches) high, give it its first mowing. Use a sharp mower blade and set the cutting height relatively high.
- Fertilize Regularly: Apply a lawn fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season to keep your lawn healthy and green.
By following these steps, you can successfully install garden grass and enjoy a beautiful, healthy lawn.
