The British may, according to the old adage, be obsessed with lawned gardens but there are actually many good reasons for turfing the space surrounding your home, irrespective of its size or shape. Not only do they look attractive and provide a haven for a variety of wildlife but lawns also help to maintain the fertility of the soil, absorbs ambient noise and reduces carbon dioxide levels in the environment.
Laying turf is straightforward if you follow some simple steps methodically.
Calculating the amount of turf
Making sure you have the correct amount of turf is important to ensure that you avoid costly wastage. Calculate the area of the lawn in metres by multiplying the length and width and allow an extra 5-10% for shaping if you intend to have wavy edges which can provide a more natural look.
Preparing the ground
Turf needs to root to flourish and it is important to provide it with good quality soil to a depth of 4-6” which should be dug over and levelled with a rake. All stones and weeds should also be removed. This is a time-consuming task which will produce far better results if completed with diligence.
Once you have turned over the soil, tread it lightly and rake it level before watering plentifully for a day or two to provide adequate moisture for the roots when the turf is laid. Preparing the ground in spring or autumn is the ideal time to avoid potentially damaging winter frosts or summer heat.
Choosing and laying the turf
In order to lay your lawn you should obtain good quality turf from a reputable supplier.
Garden turf at Wickes is tested independently by the Sports Turf Research Institute to be 99.9% weed-free so you can be confident of an exceptional look and minimum maintenance once your lawn is laid. Wickes’ Rowlawn Medallion turf is supplied in 1m² lengths.
Turf should not be stored for long periods as when it is rolled it cannot receive the sunlight necessary to maintain its condition and colour. Laying the turf on the day of delivery is advised.
Use a plank of wood to ensure you start laying the turf along a straight edge. Ensure close contact between the ends of each strip and press down all over to encourage the roots to bed into the soil. When you start the second row, arrange the turf in a brickwork pattern and nudge each piece into place to maintain contact between the strips.
A long knife or cutting spade can be used to shape the turf around the edges or other ornamental features.
Sprinkle topsoil or compost along all of the joins and water the entire lawn thoroughly.
Caring for your lawn
You should water the lawn daily, preferably in the evening but twice a day if the weather is especially warm, until it is established. Avoid using the lawn for the first few weeks but give it a light cut to help it to grow more productively. The
gardening section of the BBC website offers useful tips for keeping your lawn in tip-top condition throughout the year.