Home > Projects >

How to turf a lawn

You will need: Spade, rake, turf, board.

Laying turf to create a lawn gives an instant effect and laying it properly means it will be easier to look after for years to come. Seek out good quality turf, preferably from a specialist and choose a time when the weather is mild and the soil warm.

Best time to do it:

Step 1

A good lawn is a long-term project, so start with a good base. Good drainage is essential, so dig over (if necessary) to loosen the soil, then rake to level it and remove stones. Add fertiliser and rake lightly into the soil.

Step 2

Starting at the furthest point, unroll the turf and lay it along a straight edge. It should be green and healthy-looking, not yellow.

Step 3

Lay brick-pattern, so the joints are staggered and press firmly so each roll is in good contact with the soil beneath.

Step 4

Use a board to firm the grass and save damaging it or creating depressions. Work loose soil into the joints to help the turves knit together quickly. Water well after laying to stop the turf drying and shrinking.

Related FAQs

Ask a gardening question:

Latest Gardening News

Hosepipe Bans Continue Across Southern England

Autumn Estate Tractor and Trailer Tours launched at Blenheim Palace

Give the Gift of Nourishment to Garden Birds This Christmas With Peckish and Gardman

Essential Gardening Jobs for Late Summer

Gardening Projects for December

---

How to take Hardwood Cuttings

How to Protect Containers

How to Protect a Climber

How to clean your pots

Latest Gardening Videos

---

How should I overwinter a potted Canna lily?

How do I treat liverwort?

Moving House and Taking the Garden with You | Garden Ideas | Val Bradley

Why are there brown / black marks on my Hellebores?

How can I stop my roses suffering from wind-rock?

Growing Geraniums

All Videos

Explore Gardens from Around the World

Pukekura Park
New Plymouth, New Zealand

Butchart Gardens
British Columbia, Canada

Lalbagh Botanical Garden
Bangalore, India

The New York Botanical Garden
New York, United States

Nongnooch Tropical Garden
Pattaya, Thailand

Humble Administrator's Garden
Suzhou, China