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Overview
Laying lawn turf is one of the simplest ways to remedy a tired, shapeless patch of grass or to create a new lawn. It may be a little more expensive than sowing grass seed, but the benefits outweigh the cost - you'll have an instant, usable area of lawn with no weeds or moss to spoil the effect. The best time to do this is during a warm spring or autumn when plenty of rain will help the new grass establish roots in time for summer sun or winter frosts.
Do it:
March - April, September - October
At its best:
June - August
Takes just:
1 weekend
How to do it
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Prepare 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. -
Firm 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. -
Lay 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. -
To 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. -
It 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.
"Spread a general-purpose fertiliser over the ground one week before laying the turf."
