Your success in having a lush green lawn is determined from the very beginning when you're laying down the turf. How well you follow the instructions and pay attention to precautions is the first step to succeeding. Below are key precautions you should consider when preparing the ground and laying down your lawn.  

Clearing the Ground

Clearing the area where you're going to lay your turf cannot be overemphasized. Remove any weeds, rocks, tree stumps and any form of dirt and waste on the surface. Also, organize your lawn by cutting out the edges and paths and identifying where underground pipes pass through if any. Identifying where the pipes are prevents damaging them during lawn maintenance and also helps you to do any repairs required in the future without difficulty.

In case there are some remnant roots of weeds and other plants, you should spray a herbicide to kill the roots. Afterwards, ensure you remove the dead roots because they will tamper with the growth of your new turf's roots. Be cautious because living weeds will grow along with your turf, which will affect its health and quality.

Soil Preparation

You should prepare the soil carefully and as required for the type of grass you plan to plant. For example, if your soil is too sandy or too acidic to sustain the tuft you're laying, then treat the soil or use new soil. Consult your turf supplier about the grass and get a qualified person to test the soil for you before planting.

Make sure you break down the soil into a fine finish. Big soil lumps will prevent root penetration, and you also risk having patches of dead parts on your lawn. It's highly recommended you use a starter fertilizer or organic material to enrich the soil. Inquire from your turf provider, which is the best fertilizer and be sure to follow instructions on how to apply it.

The Laying Process

Take good care of the turf once it's delivered to avoid damaging it or parts of it. Often the turf will be delivered in rolls, so ensure you lay the turf uniformly without leaving out any spaces between the strips. Remember that turf should not be laid on dry soil, so dampen the area before laying down your turf.

Roll the strips of the turf out carefully without pulling, tearing or stretching. If a part of the strip folds, avoid pulling it to straighten. Instead, it's best that you lift it up and lay it again. Don't overlap the strips, and if there are parts of the turf hanging outside the perimeter, trim the edges. You can trim the edges using a shovel or knife.

A new lawn requires a good start to help it grow well from the beginning. After laying your turf, top dress it with a lawn mix if there is any unevenness and then water it immediately