How to lay lawn turf

1Prepare the area, levelling the ground and removing big stones. If the surface is uneven, wheelbarrow in some topsoil, pour it on top and even it out with a rake.

2Firm the soil surface by walking up and down on it taking small, heavy steps. Fill any freshly-created dips with topsoil and compress again with your feet. Give the surface a final rake over.

3Lay the turves on the soil, staggering the joints like brickwork. If it's a big area, work off a plank of wood to avoid walking on the turf. Leave awkward shapes to the end before trimming the turf.

4To create a clean edge, cut off any excess turf with a sharp knife. Bang the turves all over with the back of the rake to ensure it makes contact with the soil before giving the whole area a good water.

5It will take a few weeks for your lawn to establish and in that time it's essential you don't let the turves dry out; so water it regularly. Start mowing when the grass is 2.5cm - 5cm high, never removing more than one third of the total height of the grass at a time.