New - from Turf

Turfing can be undertaken any time during the year, but March/April or Autumn are recognised as the optimum times. The secret to success is preparing the ground properly to produce a smooth, level surface beforehand.

Remove all the unwanted vegetation either by digging or by using a non-residual herbicide. With the latter give the area a couple of weeks after using the herbicide before you start any ground preparations.

Dig or fork over the area to a depth of about 12 inches, then rake as level as possible. Leave for 4 or 5 days then rake the area again.

Tread the area by foot to reveal any soft patches which can then be raked level. The surface should be firm, but not compacted. You should now be ready for laying your turf.

Get your turf from a reputable supplier. It should be weed free. Try and get it delivered for the day, or the day before you are going to be laying. Turf left rolled for a couple of days will begin to burn and die. If, for any reason, the turf is not laid within 48 hours, unravel the rolls and expose them to the elements.

When laying, if possible, use a board to work from and walk on. Start at one edge and work across the area laying the turf in a similar pattern to brickwork. Do not stretch the turf, and cut off any overlapping pieces with a half moon or knife.

Give it a good watering. Continue with watering, unless there is persistent rain, for the the next week. Keep an eye open for browning at the edges or seams, or lifting of the turf. This is a sign that it is drying out.

Providing the weather conditions are fine, give it a light cut after a week, just taking off the tops of the grass. Within two weeks the turf should be rooting nicely and you can continue with your usual maintenance regime.

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