Planning and Preparation
Planning the lawn area
Before commencing the laying of turf, decide upon the shape of the lawn, if necessary erring towards a larger profile, as the edges can always be trimmed back subsequently to create the shape which you decide upon. Similarly, shrub borders can be cut out at a later date after consideration has been given to their shape and dimensions. Although the area for the turf must have an even surface, gently sloping as well as flat areas, are suitable to receive turf.
Preparation of lawn area
The area should be well drained. Start by raking off all the large stones, bricks etc. as well as any non-organic debris which may be on the surface.
Where an existing lawn is being replaced, remove the existing grass to a depth of around 50mm.
Where a heavy clay soil is being worked, the addition of sharp sand, garden compost or well-rotted leaves, rotavated into the surface, will help break up and improve the texture of the soil.
A fine, workable depth of around 100-120mm. needs to be achieved, if necessary by rotavating, where the soil is consolidated. Most hire shops can supply a rotavator on a daily basis if required. Where smaller areas are involved, hand digging may be feasible, provided the soil is not too hard. Break up any large clods of soil that appear during the digging process, and remove any large stones, bricks and debris.
When an even, crumbly, soil surface has been achieved, rake the area smooth, starting at one end and working steadily across to the other. On some soils with an open texture, treading the whole surface and giving a final rake over can help avoid subsequent settlement. The application of a good general fertilizer at this stage to the soil surface will give the turf a good start in life.