Clear the site of weeds and existing lawn, particularly those different to your new turf. Kikuyu and couch’s can be very persistent. This is best done by spraying with a Glyphosate type knockdown herbicide. A minimum of 10 to 14 days prior to laying the turf is recommended. Tip – it’s always best to spray actively growing plants for chemical efficacy. Don’t spray plants that are frosted, waterlogged or drought stressed. If in doubt, use a professional.
- It is always best to prepare your site well in advance of your turfs arrival.
- Rotary hoe or cultivate the soil to a depth of 10cm or more.
- Remove debris including sticks, stones and roots.
- Smooth the soil by raking.
- For large areas, hiring a bobcat operator can be very cost effective.
- Allow for a finished height, once your new turf is laid alongside paths and other features. Typically, our turf will be 3-5cm thick. Allow the desired height in relation to your paths etc.
- Assess soil condition and type and apply fertiliser. Myer Bros landscape supplies can help with advice, call 02 6964 9133.
Soil types
Most turf types prefer and perform best on a light sandy loam soil.
Some building sites may have had their top soil removed. Compaction from heavy equipment may also be a problem. This hard pan will have to be broken up. In situations where the clay subsoil is exposed, a direct application of natural gypsum at a rate of 1 kilogram per square metre is desirable. Backfilling with a top soil may be recommended by your landscape supplier.