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

Bloom and Brilliance: The 2026 Harrogate Spring Flower Show

Royal Horticultural Society shares plants for birds as feeding advice changes

STIGA secures triple victory for Robotic Innovations and Digital Experience

Rhododendrons for non-acid soils

Gardening Projects for May

---

Hows to take Leaf Cuttings

How to: Maintenance Pruning

How to Maintain a container plant

How to take Dahlia cuttings

Latest Gardening Videos

---

Is it safe to compost rhubarb leaves?

How can I get rid of a red ant nest in my lawn?

How can I get rid of mushrooms growing in my lawn?

How to Grow Perennial Scabius

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

How do I protect my tulips from squirrels and other pests?

All Videos

Explore Gardens from Around the World

Kenrokuen Garden
Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan

Gardens of the Generalife, Alhambra
Granada, Spain

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens
Tokyo, Japan

Ritsurin Garden
Takamatsu, Japan

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Cape Town, South Africa

Saint Petersburg Botanical Garden
Saint Petersburg, Russia