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How to Lay Turf

Laying turf

Start by laying the first roll of turf along the longest straight side ideally furthest away from your house or path. Continue laying this first row ensuring the end of each roll of turf is tightly butted up against the previous one. Once the first row is complete roll out a new full roll and cut this in half; use this half to start the second row. This will stagger the joints across the rows and if shrinking occurs will avoid long gaps. When laying the second row ensure the edges are butted up against the first row. If adjustments are required remember to always push the turf which will avoid stretching and tears.

Laying the first roll of lawn turf Stagger the joints when laying turf Butt turf edges together

It is advised to place planks of wood along the length of the previous row of turf that has been laid which can be walked on while laying the next row. This will avoid walking directly on the new turf, avoid having to walk on the prepped soil and will help to ensure good contact between the underside of the laid turf and the topsoil. Once a row is complete move the planks across.

Continue laying the lawn alternating the first roll in each between a full and half roll to stagger the joints. A spade, half moon or turf saw can be used to cut the ends of each row to length and can also be used to cut in rolls around trees, washing lines and any other obstacles or irregular shapes on your lawn.

Use boards when laying lawn turf Cutting in turf with a half moon, spade or turf saw Freshly laid lawn turf

More hints and tips for laying your turf

  • Ensure to rake out any footprints in the soil prior to laying the next row.
  • Any gaps that do appear in the turf can be filled in with some topsoil.
  • Where your garden has a wall try and to start turf along this as it will avoid having to cut in the final row along it which can prove tricky.
  • While turfing, if any humps or bumps appear where the soil hasn't been trodden in properly simply add a touch more soil and firm down with your feet.
  • If your garden has any curves or circles then a string line or hose pipe can be used to mark out and cut in the shape.
  • Don't use small pieces of turf to patch in or on the edges of your garden as they have a tendency to dry out and will create gaps.

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