As with any living plant, turf needs to be monitored and cared for following installation. You can ensure that your lawn establishes quickly and remains healthy by following the tips below.
WATERING
Please be aware that newly laid turf is extremely perishable.
– Before installation, make sure you have a hose and sprinkler ready to use.
– In warm weather, drench the turf with water immediately after laying.
– Be prepared to water the turf twice a day, early morning/late afternoon for 10 to 14 days.
– Make sure you have covered every piece of turf with water.
– Lift one corner of the turf to see if there is moisture all the way through.
– Check also that the soil underneath is wet.
– Use your judgement as to the amount of water needed, depending on temperature and soil type.
– You should water if the turf begins to look try and if the temperature drops below 10c.
– On dry, windy days, the turf will dry out even more quickly, so will need watering.
– On very wet days, nature will do the job for you!
– Once watered, do not walk on the turf.
WALKING ON TURF
Your new lawn is likely to be soft underfoot for the first 10 days, and needs time to form a new root system.
– If possible, do not walk on the turf for the first 10/14 days.
– Use boards to walk on until your feet leave no impression in the grass.
MOWING
If your turf has been laid during the Spring/Summer months and has been monitored and cared for correctly after installation, the grass should be ready for mowing.
– Use a mower on a high setting to begin with and then reduce the height a few days later.
– Mow once a week from Spring to Autumn.
– If possible, use a mower with a grass collector, as raking the cuttings can damage the turf.
– Petrol mowers give a better cut and finish than an electric mower.
– Don’t let the grass grow beyond a manageable height.
FERTILISATION
A lawn that has received the right nutrients at the correct time of year, is able to fight off weed infestation and disease.
– Over application of chemicals can cause the grass to die.
– Make sure you follow the manufacturers instruction to the letter when applying fertiliser.
– Grass plants need nitrogen-rich fertiliser during the Spring/Summer growing season
– Use phosphorus-rich fertiliser to help with root growth during late Autumn.
– Fertiliser should be applied every 8 to 10 weeks throughout the growing season.
– We would recommend using a lawn fertiliser instead of all-in-one weed and feed.
– Afterwards, apply weed killer to specific areas.
– Always use the fertiliser at least 2 weeks before any weed killer.