How To Lay Turf In 7 Easy Steps

Wondering how to lay turf? Whether you're working with bare dirt, tired grass or just want a more consistent look, laying turf is a great DIY project that can instantly lift your outdoor space.

While it might seem like a big job, breaking it into simple steps makes it much more manageable. Whether you're a first-timer or just want a refresher, we’ll walk you through exactly how to lay turf like a pro – no professional experience required.

How do I lay turf?

Step 1: Start with a solid plan.

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

Measure the area by length and width; this will be the square meters (m2) of turf required. If necessary, divide the areas into rectangles to make it easier.

You can also use our Turf Calculator to help determine how much turf you need when first learning how to lay turf. 

Step 2: Choose the right grass for your yard.

There are many turf varieties out there, some easier to maintain and others that require a lot more attention to keep green year-round.

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 is needed, the amount of expected wear on your turf and if your area is prone to drought.

All our turf suppliers list their wear, shade performance and drought resistance for drier climates, so you can compare and find the right turf for your area. Warm-season grasses like Buffalo Grass, Couch, TifTuf, Ironcutter and Native Zoysia thrive in our subtropical Queensland climate.

Step 3: Test and improve your soil.

Now, let's focus on your soil. Use a pH testing kit to measure between 5.5 and 7. If your soil is too acidic or too alkaline, don't worry – pH can be adjusted with some treatment.

A sandy soil base is always best, as it helps with drainage and encourages strong root growth. If you have clay soil, you’ll need to loosen it up and mix in some sandy soil to improve how it handles water. 

Got sandy soil already? Just add some organic matter, like compost, to boost nutrients. A well-balanced base like this gives your turf the best chance to take root and thrive.

Step 4: Get your preparation right.

With measurements already sorted, it’s time to prepare the underlay (the foundation for a healthy lawn):

Level the surface by removing rocks, roots and debris. Then, lightly compact the soil to stabilise it, but don’t go overboard. You should be able to see a clear boot print, but not the sides of your footprint.

To give your turf the best possible start, consider incorporating an 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.

Step 5: Lay your turf.

Now comes the exciting part – laying the turf.

Start along a straight edge, such as a driveway or pathway, to keep everything neat and uniform, and use full slabs or rolls around the edges to create a strong border. 

As you move along, stagger the joints so the pieces lock together more effectively and help prevent erosion, especially on slopes. When you're learning how to lay turf, always lay it across the slope rather than down it. 

Use a spade, shears or a sharp knife to shape each slab, avoiding small offcuts against hard surfaces where possible. Try not to fill larger gaps with tiny pieces, as they tend to dry out too quickly and won’t establish as well as full sections.

What aftercare does my new turf need in the first six weeks?

The first six weeks post-installation are critical for the turf's establishment. 

• Keep the soil moist (not soggy) to support root development. A handy trick: when a wet towel hung on the clothesline has fully dried, it’s time to water again.

• Stay off the lawn as much as possible to prevent damaging the soft new roots.
  Mow only when needed – wait until your turf reaches the recommended height, then mow gently, never cutting more than one-third of the blade length at a time.

How do I keep my lawn looking great long-term?

Once your turf is established, it’s time to switch from nurturing to maintaining. Here's how to keep it looking its best:

• Switch to less frequent, deeper watering to promote strong root systems. Watch for signs of dryness, like curled or faded blades.

• Stick to the one-third rule when mowing and keep mower blades sharp to avoid stressing the grass.

• Fertilise every 8–10 weeks with a lawn-specific fertiliser to support ongoing health.

• Aerate high-traffic zones or compacted spots to improve air and water flow.

• Topdress if needed, especially during warmer seasons, by adding a light layer of compost to boost soil structure.

Learning how to lay turf is rewarding work as you get to transform 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.

For extra guidance on lawn care, watering and long-term maintenance, you can also check the Queensland Government’s advice on lawn care.

Now that you've learned how to lay turf, it's time to get out there and enjoy your lawn! And if you need any help, don't be afraid to contact us if you have any questions along the way.