Starting with The Soil: Laying Turf Preparation

The key to a new, thriving lawn is proper soil preparation. Laying turf preparation isn’t something you want to overlook, not if you want a healthy lawn. As well as assisting with establishment, good soil preparation will also make sure you have a level lawn. Although they are important components, soil preparation is more than just clearing debris and adding topsoil.

Depending on your current soil’s type and quality, you may need to take steps to improving it. However, if it is beyond help, you’ll need to excavate and install new soil. Good soil will be nutrient rich and won’t be compacted. This means the lawn’s roots will have access to water, air and nutrients.

To test the nutrients levels, you should do a pH test. Most lawn varieties, including DNA Certified Sir Walter grass, prefer a pH level between 6 and 7. If it is below 6, the soil is too acidic and can be treated with lime or dolomite. However, if it is above 7, it is too alkaline. A sulphur-based product will help you correct your soil in this case.

If you are installing new soil, check what type is best for your turf variety. Generally, it is a sandy loam, made up of 70% sand and 30% soil. The sand component allows for more air and water movement. When working out how much to purchase, simply multiply the area by the depth needed.

Once all the other preparation is done, spread out the soil evenly. Then level it out with rakes. Use a hand roller to give it a slight compaction and final level.

Add the topsoil and your yard will be ready for laying your new lawn.