Why Caring for Your Lawn Properly After Installation Is Critical

You’ve laid the turf - now the real work begins. New turf needs consistent care in the early stages to establish strong roots, adapt to its new environment, and grow into a healthy, lush lawn. Without that early attention, even the best turf won’t reach its full potential.

The good news? Post-installation care doesn’t have to be complicated — just consistent. When done right, you’ll end up with a lawn that’s not only beautiful but also drought-tolerant, hard-wearing, and the envy of the street.

Why Are the First 8 Weeks So Important?

Think of the first 6 - 8 weeks as the turf’s settling-in period. During this time, your new grass is building connections with the soil below. It’s not yet self-sufficient and needs a little help to get there.

Regular watering, timely mowing, and careful fertilising are the keys to success. When you get the early steps right, you’re laying the groundwork for long-term lawn health, from better drought resistance to faster recovery from wear.

Watering Your New Lawn

Watering is the most important job in the early days of lawn care. Here's how to get it right:

First 2 Weeks:

• Keeping your turf consistently moist but not soggy is extremely important in the first 2 weeks of your new turf’s life.
• Adjust your watering according to the weather (temperature, relative humidity, and wind).
• Water in the morning and evening, with extra watering during the day on hot days if needed.

Week 3 - 4:

• Gradually reduce to once per day.
• Begin allowing the surface to dry slightly between waterings to encourage root growth.

Week 5 onwards:

• Reduce to 2 - 3 deep waterings per week, depending on weather.

What to watch for:

• Too little water: Edges curling, turf feels dry, colour dulling.
• Too much water: Mushy texture, discolouration, or signs of fungal growth.

Turf Type Matters

• Buffalo: Prefers less frequent, deeper watering
• Kikuyu & Couch: More drought-tolerant, but need moisture to establish
• Tall Fescue: Needs consistent moisture and prefers cooler conditions

When to Mow Your New Lawn for the First Time

You’ll usually mow your new lawn for the first time around Week 3 - 4, but always check that:

• The turf is firmly rooted (try lifting a corner - if it lifts easily, wait)
• Grass blades are around 6 - 7cm tall

Mowing Tips

• Use a mower with sharp blades set to the highest setting for the first mow
• Only remove one-third of the grass blade at a time
• Collect clippings to avoid smothering new shoots
• Mow when the grass is dry, not wet

Regular mowing helps your lawn thicken and encourages horizontal growth. Once the lawn is established, you can begin to reduce mowing height gradually based on the turf type.

When and How to Fertilise a New Lawn

Fertilising too early can damage young turf, but waiting too long can delay establishment. A balanced approach is key.

When to start:

• Apply your first fertiliser around Week 5–6 after installation

What to use:

• Use a starter fertiliser or slow-release blend designed for new turf
• Follow label directions carefully - too much can burn new roots

Turf-specific tips for fertilising

• Buffalo: May benefit from a slightly slower approach; check for growth before feeding
• Kikuyu & Couch: Faster growing and may respond quickly to feeding
• Tall Fescue: Feed consistently to maintain colour and density

Protecting Your Lawn from Foot Traffic

It’s tempting to step on your new lawn, but resist the urge in the early weeks. New turf is fragile and needs time to anchor into the soil.

Traffic tips:

• Avoid foot traffic for the first 3 weeks.
• Delay play, entertaining or pet activity until the lawn is fully established (usually after Week 6).
• Use temporary barriers or stepping stones for necessary access.

Every step on a new lawn risks damaging the root zone and causing uneven patches. A bit of patience now leads to better performance long-term.

Common Signs Your Lawn Is on Track (Or Needs Help)

Here’s a quick reference to help you spot whether your lawn is thriving or needs attention.

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Establishment Checklist

Week 1 - 2:

• Water 1 – 2 times daily
• Keep off the lawn completely
• Monitor edges and corners for signs of drying

Week 3 - 4:

• Reduce watering to once daily
• Mow when turf is firmly rooted and approximately 6 - 7cm high
• Begin planning for fertiliser

Week 5 - 6:

• Apply starter fertiliser as directed
• Begin mowing more regularly
• Limit traffic, but start easing into light use

Week 7 - 8:

• Reduce watering to deep sessions 2 – 3 times per week
• Resume regular mowing and light lawn use
• Watch for weeds or signs of bare patches

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