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Site prepClear the ground completely
Strip out old grass, weeds and roots to a depth of around 10-15cm. Dig out any rubble, roots and stones as you go, so nothing sits between the new roots and the soil. -
Soil prepBreak up and feed the soil
Fork or rotovate compacted ground to loosen it, then work in a soil improver or well-rotted compost. This gives new roots something to grip onto and grow through. -
Soil prepLevel, firm and rake to a fine tilth
Rake the area level, then firm it by walking over it in a shuffling, waffle-like pattern to remove air pockets. Rake again to leave a fine, crumbly surface, free of footprints.
For a textbook demonstration, take a look at the 'Penguin March' on our instagram page. -
Soil prepFeed the soil before you lay
Apply a pre-turfing fertiliser evenly across the area. It gives the turf a store of nutrients right where the new roots will be reaching, from day one. -
Delivery dayCheck the turf as soon as it arrives
Unroll a corner of a few rolls. Look for even green colour and moist soil. Turf is a living product, so plan to lay it within 24 hours of delivery. -
LayingLay the first row along a string line or your straightest edge
Ideally set out a string line, or lay against a patio, path or fence line. Butt each roll tightly against the next, no gaps and no overlaps, and keep joins as tight as a stitched seam. -
LayingStagger every joint, brick-bond style
Lay each row so joints fall in the middle of the row before, like bricks in a wall. Work off boards laid on the turf so you're never compacting or kneeling on ground you've already laid. -
WateringWater thoroughly within 30 minutes
Soak the turf until water reaches the soil beneath, not just the surface. This is what welds roots to soil, so don't be shy with the hose, especially at the edges. -
Soil prepKeep off it, then give it its first cut
Avoid walking on the new lawn for 2-3 weeks and keep watering daily for the first week. Once it's rooted (give it a gentle tug test), give it a first light mow, blade set high.
