Lawn Installation Guide
A simple process to ensure the successful installation of your new lawn.
Step One
Spray
The site first if weeds are a problem using Roundup or a similar non-residual herbicide.It is preferable to leave this for 7 – 14 days to ensure that an adequate result has been achieved. In some instances, a follow up spray may be required.
Step Two
Cultivate
The site by digging or using a rotary hoe to a depth of 100mm. This is often avoidable on new sites where fresh topsoil has been applied.
Step Three
Level
The site using a board, rake or screed. If necessary, add topsoil to fill any hollows or low spots. Allow 5 – 10mm around your edges to allow or the thickness of the turf.
Step Four
Consolidate
The area by tramping by foot or using a light garden roller. This is a very important part of the process to ensure that moisture retention is adequate. This ensures that the surface does not deteriorate after installation. Once this has been completed, it may be necessary to give the soil a final rake to smooth out any foot prints or imperfections in the surface.
Step Five
Fertilise
The entire area with an even application of Preplant fertiliser at 4kg/100m2 which is available from Finelawn. Just enquire from one of our friendly staff when you place an order.
Step Six
Lay
Your turf in a staggered brick like fashion , preferably starting from a straight edge.The turf must be laid immediately upon delivery. It should be stored in a cool or shady site. Ensure that all edges and ends are tightly butted together. Cut and trim any extra ends by using a sharp knife.
Step Seven
Roll
Your lawn after installation to ensure that there is good contact between the turf and the soil. This is best achieved by using a light garden roller.
Step Eight
Water
The turf within 30 minutes of installation. Maintain watering up to saturation point until the turf is firmly rooted. Ideally, watering should occur in the morning with a light spray at the hottest part of the day (2-3pm) during summer, just to remove the heat from the surface. Avoid ponding of water, especially on hot sunny days as that water will heat up and scorch the grass.
Finelawn offers irrigation design and irrigation installation - so get in touch to discuss a solution for you.
Step Nine
Mow
Your new lawn little and often after installation. The first cut should occur within seven (7) days of installation with ideally follow up cuts occurring every 5-6 days. Always remove the litter by using a catcher. Ensure that the mover blades are sharp so that the leaf blade is cut rather than torn. As a rule of thumb, remove no more than 20% of the total leaf area with each cut and maintain cutting heights as the recommended height.