How to grow a lawn

There are many types of turf available. These include sea marsh turf, meadow turf, purpose-grown and custom turf.

It is advisable to always purchase the turf from a reputable garden centre.

If possible check the condition of the turf before you buy it. Make sure there are no weeds, pests or diseases.

• Purpose-grown turf: contains various grasses and is widely available.
• Meadow turf: contains coarse grasses and broad leaved weeds such as daisies. This kind of turf is usually grown for agricultural purposes but is adequate for family use.
• Sea-Marsh turf: contains fine fescues and bents.

Turf is available in many sizes. The lower quality turf is normally supplied in 90 x 30 cm (3 x 1 ft) lengths. Higher quality turf is often sold in 30 cm (1ft) squares.

Turf is best lifted and then replanted on the same day. If for some reason there is a delay, lay turf flat with the grass up most. If possible do this in a shaded area and keep watered. Do not leave turf rolled up as the grass cannot receive light and will yellow, eventually dying.

Laying turf

Turf can be laid all year round except in extreme weather. It should be laid on moist, not wet soil, preferably when rain is expected.

1. Starting at the edge of the site lay the first row in a straight line.
2. Place a plank on this piece for you to stand on, and then lay the next row, adjusting the placement so that the turves interlock like brickwork.
3. Continue until the site is covered.

To shape the edge, use a taut string to mark the line, then a plank aligned to the string, cutting the turf along the edge using a half-moon edger. For curves use a piece of hose or rope to make the shape then cut inside it.

Roll the lawn with a light roller, or tamp it down, to remove any air pockets. In wet conditions wait until the turf has had a chance to root. Do not allow the turf to dry out. It needs to be watered thoroughly, so that the water reaches the soil underneath, to prevent the turves from drying and shrinking.

Grass seed is best sown in conditions that are moist and warm, to encourage quick germination. Early autumn is the best time, although spring planting is possible under the right conditions. Summer or hot weather is not recommended as young seedlings will suffer in the heat and may not survive.

Seed can be sown by hand or using a machine. Calculate the amount of seed needed by taking the size of the area in square metres (or yards) and multiply this by the manufacturers recommended rate. (The amount of seed required per square metre or yard.) Mix the seeds thoroughly before sowing to distribute the various seeds in the mix evenly.

Sowing by hand

1. Divide the site into small areas using string and pegs.
2. Measure the seed in batches for each section.
3. Take one batch and split it accurately in half.
4. Scatter half the seeds evenly in one direction over one section.
5. In the same section, scatter the other half of the batch at right angles to the previous.
6. Move on to the next section.

Sowing by machine

1. Calculate the amount of seed needed for the whole lawn then divide it in half.
2. Sow the seed evenly in one direction.
3. Take the remaining seed and sow a 90° to the previous batch.
4. Use Hessian or plastic sheeting at the edges to define them and collect seeds which spill over.

Aftercare

1. Rake over lightly.
2. Water thoroughly with a sprinkler, unless rain is forecast.
3. Protect seeds from birds using netting or brushwood until seedlings are established.
4. Water regularly in dry weather.
5. Germination should occur within 2 weeks, depending upon seed type and climatic conditions.
6. When growth has reached 5 cm (2 inches) cut down to 2.5 cm (1 inch) using a rotary mower for the first 2-3 cuts.(Cylinder mowers may tear the young leaves.)
7. Rake and remove clippings.
8. Mow as necessary until late autumn.