Cultivated turf allows you to enjoy an instant lush green lawn in just a few hours. In order for you to achieve the perfect lawn just follow these simple steps for preparation and installation.
Step 1 – Measuring
Before considering a new lawn it is advisable to spray the ground with a good weed-killer, ensure that it is not a residual weed-killer. Your local garden centre should be able to advise you on what product to use. Leave the area for 2-4 weeks before installing your new lawn.
Measure the length and width of the area you plan to turf. It is often advisable to order an extra 5% to cover for edging losses.
Step 2 – Soil Preparation
Then rake over and smooth the soil, removing any stones, debris, roots etc.
Roll the area lightly with a lawn roller, this will firm the surface and reveal any low areas that need to be filled.
Step 3 – Pre-Turfing Fertiliser
You can purchase a pre-turfing / pre-seeding fertiliser from Evergreen Lawns or your local garden centre. Apply over the soil before laying the turf sods.
Step 4 – Ordering Lawn
When you have measured and prepared the soil you are now ready to order your turf. You can order via e-mail or telephone and our staff will be more than happy to answer any queries or questions you have.
Step 5 – Turf Installation
Lawn turf needs to be installed within 12 hours of delivery.
Start by laying the first row along the longest straight line and work across the area staggering the joints in each row. Butt and push the edges against each other tightly without over stretching the turf. Use a board if you are working on the new turf to distribute the pressure evenly as this avoids indentations or pockets.
Use a sharp knife to trim corners etc, and avoid using small strips of grass along edges as they can dry out. When working on a slope place the pieces of turf across the slope. Turf can be staked (stakes are available upon request).
Never use a roller on your new lawn. If you are not satisfied with the levels of your lawn rectify them by top-dressing with fine sand or soil.
Step 6 – Watering
A newly laid lawn must be watered within half an hour of installation. Water daily, keeping turf moist until it is firmly rooted. Allow 3-4 weeks for the root system to take to the soil underneath.
Weather conditions will dictate whether the lawn requires watering or not. In hot, dry weather try to water your new lawn at least twice daily (morning and evening).
Step 7 – Mowing
During the first 4-6 weeks it is recommended that you avoid heavy or concentrated use of your new lawn. This gives the roots the opportunity to take to the soil underneath and for each of the strips to knit together, giving you a smooth, well established lawn.
To check whether the lawn has rooted or not, lift a corner of the turf. If it does not come away easily your lawn has rooted and is ready for it’s first mowing. For the first two months of mowing set your lawn mower to a high setting as it is important you do not cut too low, then gradually lower your mower over the growing season.
The general rule is to remove no more than a 1/3 of the grass height each cut.
Step 8 – Feeding
It will not be necessary to feed your lawn in the first 6 weeks if you have used a pre-turfing fertiliser. Fertiliser and chemical applications will depend on climate, sod type, soil, insects, weed and disease conditions. For advice on fertiliser and chemical treatment contact our office.