Seven practical steps to help fresh turf root quickly and establish into a healthy, resilient lawn.
Arrange delivery for the right day
Choose a day when you can begin laying the turf promptly. Fresh turf is a living, perishable product and should not be left rolled up while other work is completed.
- Finish planning and ground preparation before ordering.
- Keep the installation area clear and make sure water is available.
- If work is delayed, unroll the turf in a cool place and keep it moist.
Prepare the ground before delivery
Clear weeds and debris, cultivate the soil, firm it gently and rake it level so the turf can be installed as soon as it arrives.
- Remove stones, old roots and perennial weeds.
- Create a firm base with approximately 10–15mm of loose surface tilth.
- Correct bumps and hollows before laying begins.
Handle and install carefully
Move rolls carefully, lay them tightly together and avoid pulling or stretching the turf into position.
- Lay perimeter pieces first and stagger joints like brickwork.
- Use boards to spread your weight across newly laid turf.
- Press the turf into close soil contact without compacting it heavily.
Keep the turf moist
Water thoroughly after laying and maintain consistent moisture while the roots establish, especially during warm, dry or windy weather.
- Check the soil beneath the turf rather than judging the grass surface alone.
- Pay extra attention to edges, corners and areas beside paving.
- Avoid leaving the lawn waterlogged or sitting in standing water.
Keep off while it establishes
Limit foot traffic for the first two to three weeks. Young roots and wet soil are easily disturbed by repeated walking, pets and garden furniture.
- Use pressure boards if access is unavoidable.
- Wait until the turf resists lifting before returning to normal use.
- Keep pets and energetic play away during establishment.
Make the first cut carefully
Once the turf has rooted, mow for the first time with clean, sharp blades set high.
- Never remove more than one-third of the grass height in one cut.
- Use a grass box during the early cuts.
- Reduce mowing height gradually over several cuts.
Enjoy and maintain your lawn
With consistent watering, sensible mowing and seasonal feeding, your new lawn can establish into a healthy green space.
- Respond to weather rather than following a rigid watering timer.
- Feed with a product suitable for the season.
- Deal with compaction, thatch and drainage before they become serious.
