How to Lay Turf

Laying turf gives you an instant lawn, but the results depend on good preparation. Skimp on the groundwork and the turf will struggle. Do it properly and you will have a lawn that establishes quickly and lasts for years.

When to lay turf

You can lay turf at any time of year when the ground is not frozen or waterlogged, but autumn and spring are ideal. The soil is warm enough for roots to grow, and rain reduces the need for constant watering.

Avoid laying turf in hot, dry summer weather unless you can water it thoroughly every day. In winter, turf will survive but will not root until spring.

Step 1: Clear and prepare the site

1. Remove existing grass, weeds and debris. You can skim off old turf with a spade or hire a turf cutter.
2. Dig or rotovate the soil to a depth of at least 15cm to break up compaction.
3. Remove large stones, roots and rubbish.
4. If the soil is heavy clay, work in sharp sand or grit to improve drainage.
5. If the soil is very sandy, add organic matter to help retain moisture.

Step 2: Level and firm the soil

1. Rake the soil to create a level surface. Work in different directions to avoid creating ridges.
2. Walk over the area with small shuffling steps to firm it down, then rake again.
3. The finished level should be about 25mm below any adjacent paths or edges to allow for the turf thickness.
4. Apply a pre-turfing fertiliser according to the product instructions and rake it in lightly.

Step 3: Lay the turf

1. Start along a straight edge – a path, patio or string line.
2. Lay the first row of turf, butting each piece tightly against the next.
3. Stagger the joints like brickwork – do not have joints lining up.
4. Work from a plank placed on the turf you have just laid to avoid compacting the prepared soil.
5. Press each piece down firmly with the back of a rake or by walking on it.
6. Use a sharp knife to cut turf to fit around edges and obstacles.
7. Avoid using small pieces at edges – they dry out quickly. Use full pieces at edges and put the offcuts in the middle.

Step 4: Finish and water

1. Brush fine soil or sandy top-dressing into the joints to help them knit together.
2. Water the whole lawn thoroughly. The soil underneath should be moist, not just the turf surface.
3. If you have a roller, give the lawn a light roll to ensure good contact between turf and soil.

Aftercare: the first few weeks

• Watering: Keep the turf moist for at least the first two weeks. In dry weather, water daily. Lift a corner to check – the soil underneath should be damp.
• Stay off it: Avoid walking on new turf for 2-3 weeks while the roots establish.
• First mow: When the grass reaches about 5cm, give it a light cut with the mower on a high setting. Do not remove more than a third of the height.
• Feeding: Wait 4-6 weeks before applying lawn feed.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Poor soil preparation: This is the main cause of turf failure. Compacted or uneven soil leads to poor rooting and an uneven lawn.
• Leaving gaps between turves: Gaps dry out and weeds grow through. Butt the edges tightly together.
• Not watering enough: New turf dries out quickly, especially in warm weather. If the edges curl up, it needs more water.
• Walking on it too soon: Give the roots time to anchor before using the lawn.