How To Lay Turf In 7 Easy Steps

Researching how to lay turf? You've come to the right place!

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.

Step 2: Choose the right grass for your yard.

There are many different turf varieties out there, some being easier to maintain while others 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 resistance to droughts for drier climates, so you can compare and find the right turf for your area. Warm-season grasses like Buffalo Grass, Couch, TifTuf, Ironcutter, Native Zoysia or Zoysia Grass thrive in our subtropical Queensland climate.

Check out our turf varieties to see what could suit your yard and 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. 

Get sandy soil already? Great – 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 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 help them work 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, as they simply dry out too quickly.

Step 6: Aftercare: The First 6 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.

Step 7: Keep your lawn looking great.

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.

Laying 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.

Now, 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.