Turfing Your Garden
The following turf laying tips have been provided by John Ransley of Ransley Turf, based on over 33 years of experience — from the farms where turf is grown to the gardens where it is installed.
Turf is a living product. Unlike factory-produced products it has its own characteristics. There are no absolutes — circumstances such as weather, soil types and general TLC can change the outcomes. There is no substitute for common sense. Experts don't exist.
Prepare the Soil
You need 150mm depth of loose, fine and clean topsoil. This can be achieved by digging, rotovating, adding fresh soil, or a mixture of both. Remove any debris and vegetation so the turf can have intimate contact with the soil. Adding a pre-turf fertiliser gives added results. Rake and level the soil to a fine tilth as if preparing a seed bed.
Dampen the Ground
In especially hot and dry weather, it is a good idea to dampen the ground prior to installation. Do not water the turf before laying.
Lay the Turf
Start from one side of the garden and lay one full row of turf. Use boards (scaffold or ply) to lay on the turf, then add your next row whilst compacting what you have already laid. Stagger the joints like brickwork. Move the boards as you continue working across the garden.
Cut to Shape
For small borders, it's easier to cut these to shape once the lawn has established. For larger borders, use string lines or marker paint and cut the turf to shape. The best tool to cut turf with is a knife with a serrated edge — quickest and gives a smart edge.
Water Thoroughly
Most people underestimate the amount of water needed. 15 litres of water per square metre is required to equal 12mm of rainfall. An oscillating sprinkler will cope with an average garden. Stand a small container near the sprinkler to monitor the amount of water applied. If the weather is hot and dry, water the turf directly after installation.
150mm soil depth
15 litres per m²
Stagger joints like brickwork