How to Care for New Turf: A Step-by-Step Guide
Congratulations on your new turf! A fresh lawn transforms any outdoor space, but proper care is essential to ensure it establishes well and grows lush and healthy. Here’s our comprehensive guide to help you care for your newly laid turf.
1. Watering: The Lifeline for Your Lawn
Proper watering is crucial in the early stages to encourage root establishment.
First 2 Weeks: Water daily, ensuring the soil stays moist. The best time to water is early morning or late afternoon to minimize evaporation.
Week 3–4: Gradually reduce watering to every other day. Adjust based on weather conditions—hot, dry days may require more frequent watering.
After 4 Weeks: Transition to a regular watering schedule (2–3 times per week), ensuring deep soaking to promote strong root growth.
2. Mowing: Timing is Everything
Your new turf needs time to root before it’s ready for mowing.
First Mow: Wait 3–4 weeks before the first cut. Check if the turf is rooted by gently pulling on it—it should resist.
Cutting Height: Set your mower to a higher setting for the first mow and only remove the top third of the grass. This reduces stress on the lawn.
Regular Mowing: Gradually lower the cutting height with each subsequent mow until it reaches your desired length.
3. Fertilizing: Feed Your Lawn
New turf needs nutrients to thrive.
Starter Fertilizer: Ideally applied during the installation process, this promotes root development.
Follow-Up Fertilizer: Apply a slow-release fertilizer 6–8 weeks after installation to support ongoing growth.
Tip: Always water the lawn after fertilizing to prevent nutrient burn.
4. Protecting Your Turf
Your lawn is delicate in the early stages, so take precautions to avoid damage.
Foot Traffic: Minimize walking on the lawn for the first 2–3 weeks.
Heavy Objects: Avoid placing outdoor furniture or other heavy items on the turf for at least 4 weeks.
Pets: Limit pets’ access to the new turf to prevent digging or trampling.
5. Weed Management
While fresh turf often comes weed-free, occasional weeds may pop up.
Hand-pull any weeds that appear during the first few months.
Avoid using herbicides until the lawn is fully established, usually after 3 months.
6. Long-Term Care Tips
Once your turf has rooted and established, regular maintenance will keep it looking great.
Aeration: After 6–12 months, aerate your lawn to improve soil health and allow better water and nutrient absorption.
Top Dressing: Add a thin layer of topsoil or sand after 12 months to level the surface and enhance soil quality.
Seasonal Fertilizing: Feed your lawn every 2–3 months with a suitable lawn fertilizer to keep it green and lush year-round.
Signs of a Healthy Lawn
A well-cared-for lawn will show:
Strong, deep green blades.
Firmly rooted turf that resists pulling.
Even growth across the lawn.
Caring for new turf may take some effort, but the reward of a vibrant, healthy lawn is well worth it. Follow these steps, and your lawn will soon become the envy of the neighborhood!
If you have any questions or need professional advice, Coastal Lawn Solutions is here to help. Contact us for expert tips or additional support. 🌱
Happy lawn care!
The Coastal Lawn Solutions Team
