How To Lay Turf In 7 Easy Steps

Looking to elevate your outdoor space? True garden envy begins with luscious green grass that can be easily obtained by laying turf correctly, and we can show you how!

Taking on a project like laying a new lawn may seem a little daunting, but by breaking it down into easy to follow steps it will seem more manageable. Before you know it, you’ll have the best looking turf in your street.

Street view of house with freshly laid turf

Step 1: Plan Your Yard

Before diving into the many aspects of laying turf, take a moment to envision your dream lawn. Consider the purpose of the space – is it a play area for kids, an outdoor retreat, or perhaps a garden for entertaining? Sketch out a rough plan will help you determine the size and shape of the turf area, ensuring it aligns with your vision.

Measure out the area by length x width and this will be the square meters (m2) of turf required. Divide up the areas into rectangles if required to make it easier.

You can also use and online measuring tool to help determine the amount of turf you need. Simple follow the below steps:

Go to the Queensland Globe website and enter your address.
Click on the blue icon in the top-right corner, select the measurement option, and choose your preferred unit.
Draw around the area you want to measure, and note down the calculated area for determining the amount of turf needed.

A man kneeling on his front lawn checking his turf measurements

Step 2: Choose a Suitable Grass Type

Not all turf is made equal, some are easy to maintain while others require high constant attention to keep green all year long. Selecting the right grass type for your yard is crucial for a thriving lawn. Consider the leaf type (broadleaf turf or fine leaf lawn), cost, how much shade, the amount of wear expected on your turf and if you’re likely to get a drought.

All our turf suppliers list their wear, shade performance and resistance to droughts for drier climates for you to compare and find the right turf for your area. Warm-season grasses like Buffalo Grass, Couch Grass, Sir Walter Buffalo Grass or Zoysia Grass thrive in our subtropical Queensland climate.

Check with our turf varieties for what suits your yard and climate.

A person checking the quality of his freshly delivered turf

Step 3: Soil Check

Now, let's focus on your soil.

Use a pH testing kit to measure between 5.5 and 7. If it's off, don't worry, pH can be adjusted with some treatment.
A sand-soil base is always preferred. If you have a clay base you will need to de-compact this and add sand soil. If your base is already sandy, mix in some organics to boost nutrients.

View our top Lawn Care Products.

Someone using a PH testing soil kit to test their soil quality

Step 5: Getting Preparation Right

With measurements in hand, it is time to prepare the underlay:

Level the surface, removing rocks, roots, and debris.
Compact the soil gently to create a stable base. Consider incorporating a underdress soil mixed with a slow-release fertiliser such as Garden Mate or LSA Lawn Launcher to nourish the turf in its early stages. A well-prepared underlay ensures optimal conditions for root establishment.
Remember! Do not over-compact, you should be able to see a boot print but not the sides.

A landscaper evenly spreading their top soil in preparation to lay turf

Step 6: Laying Your Turf

Now comes the exciting part – laying the turf! Start along a straight edge, such as a driveway or pathway, to ensure a neat and uniform appearance.

Use full slabs or rolls around the edge creating a border as you go
Stagger your joints as it will establish together better and can prevent erosion on slopes. Always install across slopes
Regardless of shape, try to keep big pieces around the edge.
Use a spade, shears or a knife to cut turf slabs to shape, trying to avoid using cuttings up against hard surfaces.
Don't patch up larger areas with small pieces if you can avoid it, they simply dry out to quickly.

Step 7: Aftercare: The First 6 Weeks

The first six weeks post installation are critical for the turf's establishment. Water the lawn consistently to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. A good rule to go by is when you put a sprinkler on, dunk a towel in water at the same time and hang it on the clothesline. When the towel is dry, water the lawn.

Mow the grass when it reaches the recommended height for your chosen variety, ensuring not to cut more than one-third of the blade length. Avoid heavy foot traffic during this period to allow the roots to anchor securely.

What to Watch Out For:

Drainage: Consider water flow during base preparation. Ensure no water sits or flows towards buildings in heavy rain.
Timing Your Turf Order: Turf is perishable. Order when ready to lay it to prevent burning during idle time.
Drying Out: Early on, water your lawn consistently. If leaves show signs of drying, apply more water.
Seedhead: If your lawn produces a seed head, it's stressed. Apply fertiliser or more water based on its needs.

Laying turf is rewarding work, it transforms a barren patch into a lush, green oasis. By following these steps – from thoughtful planning to turf aftercare – you'll be on your way to enjoying a vibrant, healthy lawn that enhances your outdoor space.

A man helping a child water their turf and garden

Now, it's time to get out there and enjoy your lawn! Remember to fertilise every 8-10 weeks and water as required. Don't be afraid to contact us if you have any questions along the way!