Dreaming of a lush, green lawn but don’t want to wait for seeds to sprout and grow? Instant lawn, also known as turf, is the perfect solution. It provides an immediate transformation, giving you a beautiful, established lawn in hours. While it might seem daunting, laying instant lawn is a project many homeowners can tackle themselves with a little preparation and know-how. At Layalawn, we’re passionate about helping you achieve the garden of your dreams, so here’s our step-by-step guide to installing instant lawn like a pro.
- Preparation is key:
- Measure Your Area: Accurate measurements are crucial to ensure you order the correct amount of turf. Measure the length and width of your lawn area and multiply them to calculate the square meterage. It’s always a good idea to add a little extra (around 5-10%) to account for cuts and wastage.
- Clear the Area: Remove any existing grass, weeds, rocks, debris, and old paving. A spade or turf cutter can help remove existing grass. Aim for a clean, level surface.
- Soil Preparation: This is arguably the most important step. Instant lawn needs a healthy foundation to thrive.
- Dig: Turn over the soil to a depth of at least 15cm (6 inches). This will loosen the soil and improve drainage.
- Improve: Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil structure and fertility.
- Level: Rake the soil to create a smooth, even surface. Use a level or long piece of wood to check for any dips or bumps. The finished level should be slightly below any paving or pathways.
- Firm: Lightly compact the soil with a roller or by walking over it. This will create a firm base for the turf.
- Water: Lightly water the prepared soil to help it settle and provide moisture for the new turf.
- Laying the turf:
- Start Straight: Begin laying the turf along a straight edge, such as a path or fence. This will ensure a neat finish.
- Butt Joints Tightly: Roll out the turf, carefully butting the edges together tightly without overlapping. Avoid stretching the turf.
- Stagger the Joints: Lay subsequent rows in a staggered pattern, like brickwork. This will help to create a stronger, more visually appealing lawn.
- Cut to Fit: Use a sharp knife or Stanley knife to cut the turf to fit around obstacles such as trees, flowerbeds, or paving.
- Roll and Settle: Once a section is laid, gently roll it with a lawn roller to ensure good contact between the turf and the soil. This will help the roots establish quickly.
- Watering is crucial:
- Water Immediately: As soon as you’ve laid a section of turf, water it thoroughly. The soil beneath the turf should be moist, but not waterlogged.
- Keep it Moist: For the first two weeks, water the lawn regularly, especially during dry weather. The goal is to keep the turf and the soil beneath consistently moist. You should be able to lift a corner of the turf and see moisture underneath.
- Water Deeply: After the first two weeks, gradually reduce the frequency of watering, but water more deeply each time. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil.
- Aftercare:
- Avoid Heavy Traffic: Keep foot traffic to a minimum for the first few weeks to allow the roots to establish.
- First Mow: Wait until the turf has rooted firmly before mowing for the first time. This is usually around two to three weeks after installation. When you do mow, set the mower blades high to avoid scalping the new grass.
- Fertilise: After the first mow, apply a lawn fertiliser to provide the turf with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Final words
Installing instant lawn is a rewarding project that can transform your garden in a matter of days. By following these steps and providing proper care, you can enjoy a lush, green lawn for years to come. If you’d rather leave it to the professionals, Layalawn offers a complete instant lawn installation service. Contact us today for a free quote and let us take the hassle out of creating your perfect lawn! We can also advise on the best type of turf for your specific needs and conditions.