March 06, 2023 Turf Tips
We get it – when you see that final roll of turf laid out, completing your lawn or the last part of your landscaping project, all you want to do is run around and celebrate on it! But with fresh new turf, this is the last thing you should be doing.
We need to remember that turf has been cut and removed from its original source, with limited access to water, oxygen and nutrients during its commute to its new home. So, it needs to play catch-up once it’s been rolled out, in order to become fully established. Once your turf has been moved to its new spot, there are a few things you need to consider before it can be used.
As long as the soil where your turf is being laid has been properly prepared, your fresh new lawn will take about 2 weeks to grow shallow roots and up to 6 weeks to be fully settled. How fast it roots depends on many factors including the type of turf, soil conditions, the weather etc. but the more time you can allow your grass to bed in, the better.
Ideally, you should wait 3 weeks before allowing yourself to feel the grass beneath your feet! However, we understand you may have to walk on your lawn to reach certain points of your garden or to even water the new turf itself. If this is the case, try and walk on it as little as possible and avoid walking the same path. Also, wear smooth-soled shoes to reduce heavy tread or pressure points which could result in uneven surfaces.
Put simply, yes. New turf needs watering twice a day within its first week and then 2-3 times a week from then on, especially in the dryer summer months. If you need to walk on your grass to ensure every inch has had a drink, again, we recommend wearing smooth-soled shoes and treading lightly as you go. Although tempting, avoid jumping, running or twisting on your new lawn as this can disturb and damage the establishing seeds.
This usually takes around 3 weeks but essentially once your turf has rooted, you can start mowing. A good way to test this is by turning up the edge of your turf and if it doesn’t lift, it’s well-anchored and ready to mow. If it lifts easily, leave it a bit longer to knit a stronger root system. For your turf’s first trim, we recommend using the highest mower setting to just cut the top of the grass, this’ll help the grass grow stronger. Also, make sure your mower’s blade is sharp, as a blunt blade will damage your new grass leaves.
Turf goes through a lot when it settles into a new location. That’s why we make it our mission to move turf as quickly as possible to reduce any further stress and give your lawn the best chance to thrive. But depending on your location and type of soil, your turf may need some help. If you spot signs your turf is in trouble, you can use fertiliser to feed it after its first cut to help it recover and grow. If you’re unsure of which fertiliser is best, get in touch with one of the team today and we can find the best solution for you.
Whether you’re looking to revamp your garden, put down a luscious lawn for a commercial project, or upgrade a sports field ready for the next season, we can help. Our range of turf and landscaping materials means you have everything you need to create your ideal outdoor space. For more information, get in touch with the GDT team today.
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