How to look after my new lawn

 

Caring for a newly laid turf lawn requires careful attention to watering, mowing, and aftercare practices to ensure it establishes well and remains healthy. Here’s a guide on how to care for your new turf and recommendations for the best sprinklers:

 

 

How to care for your newly laid turf lawn

 

1. Watering:

   • Initial Watering: Water immediately after laying the turf. Ensure the soil beneath the turf is moist to help the roots establish.
   • Frequent Watering: For the first 2-3 weeks, water daily (unless it rains heavily) to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
   • Gradual Reduction: After the initial establishment period, gradually reduce the frequency to every other day, then twice a week, as the roots start to penetrate deeper into the soil.

2. Mowing:

1. • First Mow: Wait until the grass reaches about 7-10 cm in height before mowing for the first time. Ensure the soil is dry to avoid damaging the turf.
   • Mowing Height: Set your mower to the highest setting for the first few cuts. Gradually lower the height over the next few mowing sessions.
   • Regular Mowing: Maintain a regular mowing schedule, never removing more than one-third of the grass blade length at a time.

3. Fertilising:

1. • Initial Fertilisation: Apply a balanced fertilizer about 4-6 weeks after laying the turf.
   • Regular Feeding: Feed your lawn every 6-8 weeks during the growing season (April-September) with something like Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food*

4. Aftercare:

1. • Weed Control: Remove any weeds that appear manually until the lawn is well-established.
   • Aeration: Consider aerating your lawn in the September after it was laid to improve soil compaction and root growth.
   • Top Dressing: Apply a light top dressing of sand or compost after aeration (in September/October) to improve soil structure and drainage.

*Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Lawn Food

• Description: A water-soluble fertilizer that provides quick results and is easy to apply.
• N-P-K Ratio: 24-8-16 (Balanced nutrients for overall growth)
• Benefits: Immediate nutrient availability, supports fast greening and growth.

 

 

Best sprinklers for watering a freshly laid lawn

 

Gardena Aqua Zoom Maxx Oscillating Sprinkler: Easy to store.  Covers a large area.  Easy to use.

Nelson Raintrain Traveling Sprinkler: Unique sprinkler that moves along a hose track, ideal for large lawns with complex shapes.

Tips for Using Sprinklers

• Even Coverage: Ensure your sprinkler provides even coverage without leaving dry spots or causing puddling.
• Timing: Water early in the morning or late in the evening to reduce evaporation and ensure it has enough moisture throughout the day.
• Adjustments: Regularly check and adjust your sprinkler settings to ensure optimal coverage and efficiency as your lawn grows and seasons change.

 

 

By following these aftercare guidelines and using an effective sprinkler system, your new turf lawn will establish quickly and thrive, providing a lush and healthy green space.

 

Article created July 2024.