How to prepare for your natural turf

1. Clear existing space
   If you are removing an existing lawn, first spray herbicide to kill the vegetation. After the vegetation has died, remove it and any other debris (sticks, stones etc). Do not lay turf on existing grass.
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2. Test your topsoil
   Test the pH of your topsoil. pH stands for the ‘potential of hydrogen’ and is a scale of acidity from 0 to 14. The correct pH of your topsoil should be between 5.5 and 7.0. For acidic soils (pH below 6) add lime, for heavy clay soils add gypsum.
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3. Adding topsoil
   If you need to add topsoil, we recommend purchasing weed free sandy loam topsoil. Most Garden Supply stores have a ‘turf underlay’ product. A minimum topsoil depth of 150mm is required.
   
   Rake the topsoil level. Be sure to leave your topsoil 20mm-30mm below adjoining footpaths and driveways to allow for the depth of your new lawn (10mm-20mm).
   
   
4. Irrigation
   If you are installing an irrigation system, this can be done in conjunction with the topsoil. Water is used to consolidate the topsoil and it is important to have moisture in the topsoil when laying turf. Check water is penetrating the topsoil evenly. If not, apply Yates Waterwise wetting agent.
   
   
5. Aeration and Drainage
   It is important your topsoil is well aerated and well drained. The roots need a balance of oxygen and water. If your topsoil is compacted, you will need to till the soil (turn over and break up the soil) to relieve the compaction. You can increase drainage via the installation of pipes or creating a slope.
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6. Fertilisation
   You may choose to apply Yates Dynamic Lifter to increase the retention of moisture and nutrients in your topsoil. A definite head-start for your new lawn.

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Having prepared your site, you are now ready to measure your lawn area and order your new lawn.

All lawn areas can be divided into common shapes.

Marking the shapes on the ground with spray paint will help you correctly measure out your lawn area. Remember to allow an extra 5% if you’re unsure of your measurements.

One roll of turf measures approximately 2500mm in length and 400mm in width, or one square metre.

Be careful not to over order, unused rolls are unable to be returned. 

If you need help to measure your lawn area, please Contact Us. One of our experienced turf experts will be able to assist you. 

You can order online or over the phone.

The ideal time to order your new lawn is in spring or autumn. This is because the temperatures are milder in these seasons. The rolls of turf are less likely to stress.

We do also supply turf in winter and summer, and we take additional care at these times of year. If you order in these seasons, you will need to lay your turf as soon as it is delivered. If it is not laid the same day, the turf may lose colour and start to stress.

When ordering in advance, ensure you have allowed enough time to adequately prepare your space so that you are ready to lay your new turf as soon as it arrives.