Laying turf is more straightforward than many people expect, but the preparation stages are critical. Rush the groundwork and the finished result will show it. Follow these steps carefully and you will have a lawn that looks professional and establishes strongly.
Step 1: Prepare the Ground
Remove all existing vegetation and rotovate the soil to a depth of 15cm. Incorporate well-rotted compost if the soil is poor. Rake level, removing all stones over 2cm, and firm by treading systematically across the area.
- Remove all existing weeds and vegetation — treat with weedkiller if needed
- Rotovate or dig to 15cm depth
- Incorporate organic matter and pre-turfing fertiliser
- Rake to a fine tilth, removing stones
- Firm by treading in overlapping rows
- Final rake to a level, crumbly surface
Step 2: Laying the Turf
Start from a straight edge — a path, fence or string line. Lay rolls in a brick-bond pattern (joints staggered like brickwork) and butt them tightly together with no gaps. Work from boards laid on the turf to avoid compacting areas already laid.
Step 3: Aftercare
Water immediately after laying and continue daily for the first two weeks — more frequently in hot or windy weather. Stay off the turf for at least three weeks. Make the first cut when the turf resists gentle pulling — set the mower to its highest setting.
A&T Landscapes lays high-quality turf across Hampshire, Dorset and Wiltshire with thorough ground preparation as standard. Call 07735 916029 for a turf quote.