Using a turf cutter is an effective way to remove sections of grass and the underlying root structure from an area. It involves preparing the ground, setting the machine's cutting depth, and guiding it across the lawn to lift strips of turf.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Turf Cutter
Operating a turf cutter typically follows a structured process to ensure efficient and effective turf removal.
1. Preparation
Before you begin cutting, it's crucial to prepare the area:
- Clear the area: Remove any obstacles like stones, toys, hoses, or debris that could damage the machine's blades or impede operation.
- Mow the lawn: Cut the grass relatively short (but not scalped) to make it easier for the machine to feed and the blades to reach the soil.
- Water the lawn (optional): A slightly moist lawn can sometimes make cutting easier, but avoid making it too wet, as this can cause the machine to bog down or the soil to clog the blades. Dry ground can also be difficult to cut. Aim for Goldilocks conditions – not too wet, not too dry.
- Wear Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as sturdy boots, long trousers, and eye protection.
2. Set the Cutting Depth
Turf cutters have adjustable blades that control how deep they cut into the soil.
- Adjust the blades to the desired depth. This setting depends on the thickness of the turf and the depth of the root system you need to remove.
- A common starting point is around 1-2 inches (2.5-5 cm), but this may need adjustment.
3. Make the First Pass
- Start the turf cutter according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Engage the cutting blades and begin moving the machine forward in a straight line.
- Guide the machine steadily across the area you want to clear.
4. Check the Depth and Adjust
- After you've undertaken the first pass with the turf cutter, just check that it's at the right depth. This is a critical step.
- Lift a section of the cut turf strip to inspect the depth.
- You want it to have taken off the roots. If the roots are still largely in the ground, the depth is too shallow. If you're cutting too deep into the soil below the roots, you might be making the job harder and removing unnecessary material.
- Adjust the blade depth on the machine if needed, then continue cutting.
5. Continue Cutting
- Continue making parallel passes across the area, slightly overlapping the previous cut to ensure no strips are missed.
- Plan your cutting pattern to avoid having to turn the heavy machine unnecessarily. Often, cutting the longest dimension first is efficient.
6. Remove the Turf Strips
- Once the turf is cut into strips, you can roll them up or cut them into smaller, manageable sections using a spade.
- These strips can then be relocated, composted, or disposed of.
7. Clean Up
- Once the area is clear, clean any excess soil or debris from the turf cutter before returning or storing it.
Tips for Effective Turf Cutting
- Maintain a steady pace: Moving too fast can cause the machine to jump or miss sections, while moving too slow can bog it down.
- Overlap passes: Slightly overlapping each pass ensures complete removal of the turf layer.
- Handle turns carefully: Turf cutters are heavy. Plan your cuts to minimize tight turns. You may need to lift or tilt the blades when turning.
- Listen to the machine: The sound of the engine and blades can indicate if the machine is struggling (too deep, hitting an obstacle) or operating smoothly.
By following these steps and incorporating safety precautions, you can effectively use a turf cutter to remove unwanted grass and roots.
