A flawless turf installation goes beyond choosing the right turf; it requires well-prepared groundwork that provides a strong foundation for a long-lasting and thriving lawn. Before installing your turf, read our guide on the essential steps for perfect groundwork.
Why is Groundwork Essential
Effective Drainage
A well-prepared ground allows for effective drainage. This is crucial during rainy seasons as inadequate groundwork leads to waterlogging during Winter increasing the possibility of root rot and fungal growth.
Longevity
By preparing your ground before installing, you are creating a strong foundation for a healthy lawn. When done correctly, groundwork preparation provides an even source of nutrition and water availability for your lawn. Neglecting these steps results in patchiness and underperforming unhealthy grass.
Enhanced Aesthetic
The aesthetic of your lawn is heavily dependent on the preparation. Levelling the surface during groundwork preparation ensures a smooth and uniform surface. This not only makes your lawn more appealing and easy to mow but also provides a stable surface for lawn furniture and activities. Lawns with dips from uneven surfaces can pose a hazard and make mowing more difficult.
Steps to Ensure Successful Turf Installation
Site Preparation
It is crucial to ensure the area is free from debris, weeds, and plant matter before installation.
Our Farm Manager – Clayton Philip, who has over 30 years of experience, advises:
“Clear any vegetation and debris from the site to ensure proper drainage.
Amend the soil with a quality topsoil, if required, up to 100mm deep.
Level the area, making sure that you allow for the thickness of the turf.
Apply a good soil wetter and starter fertiliser before laying your turf.”
Irrigation
With Perth’s dry windy summer season, irrigation is a must to keep your lawn moist and healthy. Irrigation correctly installed provides even coverage, avoiding patches drying up and dying.
Installing Your Lawn
It is recommended that your new lawn is laid as soon as possible following delivery, as freshly harvested turf does not have a root system (think of freshly cut flowers). Lay the entire perimeter tamping as you progress, then using a staggered brick-like pattern, lay remaining turf rolls, firmly butting rolls together by pushing, avoiding stretching the rolls. If your new lawn area is large, then commence watering as soon as a sufficient quantity of lawn is on the ground. Once all of the lawn is installed, irrigate the area for approx. 30 minutes, then compact using a plate compactor or roller for a premium finish.
“Compacting the turf after installation ensures that the turf has good contact with the soil; this will aid the turf to establish well.”
Watering and Mowing
Watering is essential to prevent drying out during the initial days of installation. Ensure you have your water exemption permit (Watercorp/google water exemption) to avoid any fines for watering outside of the allowed watering days. It is recommended to apply 10ml of water three times daily (6am, 10am and 2pm), gradually reducing as the lawn establishes. Once your lawn is established, apply 10ml of water twice weekly. Mowing requirements vary depending on the season and the growth of your lawn.
Regular mowing reduces thatch in your lawn, encouraging a firm surface. Always remove mowing clippings as leaving them on the lawn encourages pest and disease.
Choosing Carabooda Lawn
Carabooda Lawn is your local Perth Metro trusted business when it comes to turf suppliers providing premium turf varieties, from Sir Walter Buffalo to Winter Green turf, all suited to WA’s climate and perfect for your outdoor space. Alongside our turf, we also offer a range of products that are extremely useful for first-time and seasoned installers, making it both convenient and easy to have your lawn looking amazing. Ready to start installing your lawn? Contact our team today to find the perfect turf for your property.