Installing turf rolls, also known as sod, is a practical way to achieve an instant lawn. The process involves preparing the ground, laying the rolls correctly, and ensuring proper contact with the soil for successful growth.
Preparing the Area for Turf
Before you lay a single roll of turf, thorough preparation of the ground is crucial. This sets the stage for a healthy, thriving lawn.
Ground Leveling and Soil Prep
Start by clearing the area of any existing grass, weeds, rocks, and debris. Then, level the ground, ensuring a smooth, even surface. It's often beneficial to improve the soil structure by incorporating compost or topsoil, especially if your existing soil is poor. Aim for a depth of 4-6 inches of prepared soil.
- Clear existing vegetation.
- Remove stones and debris.
- Level the ground.
- Amend soil if necessary.
- Compact lightly (but not excessively) so you don't sink more than half an inch when walking on it.
Final Raking
Before laying the turf, give the area a final rake to create a fine tilth. This provides a good base for the turf roots to establish quickly. Water the prepared area lightly if it's very dry.
Laying the Turf Rolls
Once the ground is ready, you can begin laying the turf. Work from the longest straight edge of the area, such as a driveway or patio, to make the process easier.
Unrolling and Positioning
Unroll the first strip of turf, laying it carefully on the prepared soil. Avoid walking on the prepared soil as much as possible while laying.
- Start along a straight boundary.
- Lay the first roll flat without stretching or creasing.
- Work your way across the area.
Butting the Edges
This is a critical step for a seamless lawn. Butt the edges of the turf rolls tightly against each other without overlapping, ensuring there are no gaps between the rolls. Stagger the joints in subsequent rows like brickwork. This helps the lawn knit together evenly and prevents visible seams later.
Cutting and Shaping
Use a sharp utility knife or a specialist sod cutter to trim rolls to fit edges, curves, or around obstacles like trees or garden beds.
Finishing the Installation
After all the turf is laid, there are essential steps to complete the installation and encourage healthy root development.
Rolling the Turf
After the turf is laid, roll it after installation to eliminate air pockets. Use a lawn roller (often available for rent from a local garden center) that is about half full of water or sand. Rolling helps push the turf roots firmly into contact with the soil below.
- Use a lawn roller.
- Roll gently over the entire newly laid area.
- Address any remaining small gaps by filling with topsoil and pressing the turf edges together.
Rolling serves multiple purposes: it helps flatten small bumps, ensures even soil-to-turf contact which is vital for root growth, prevent water pooling, and encourage even growth across the entire lawn.
Initial Watering
Water the newly laid turf immediately and thoroughly. The soil beneath the turf should be moist to a depth of several inches. Proper initial watering and continued irrigation are key to successful establishment.
Installation Checklist
Here's a quick checklist to ensure you cover the main steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| Preparation | Clear, level, and amend soil. Rake smooth. |
| Laying | Start edge, lay rolls, butt edges tightly. |
| Cutting | Trim edges and shapes. |
| Rolling | Use roller to remove air pockets and ensure contact. |
| Watering | Water immediately and thoroughly. |
By following these steps, incorporating the technique of tightly butting edges and the crucial post-installation rolling, you can successfully install turf rolls for a beautiful, new lawn.
