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How to Care for New Lawns

Dec 17, 2018

Watering, mowing and fertilising practices are important for a newly laid lawn.
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Short Term Care for New Lawns

A newly laid lawn should not be allowed to dry out over the first couple of weeks. Once established, you should first mow your turf when it has grown to 6cm high remembering never to mow more than 1/3 of the leaf. We also recommend using a fertiliser to keep your lawn green and healthy.

Watering

It is essential that for the first 7-14 days, or until the turf has taken root, you keep the soil moist. This will ensure your new lawn can establish a good root system and will help it last through hot and dry weather.

After your lawn has taken root you shouldn’t be able to pull corners of the turf up, water carefully for the next 3 weeks.

Mowing

New turf must be firmly rooted before you can start mowing. The first mow happens when the lawn reaches about 6cm in height, do not let it grow higher than this before the first mowing.

Subsequent mowings, while the turf is still establishing, should not be done below 4cm.

Fertilising

Remember to never mow more than 1/3 of the leaf. We recommend you fertilise your lawn six weeks after laying, followed by a deep watering. This will help give the new turf the nutrients it needs to grow into a strong and healthy lawn.

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Long Term Care for Established Lawns

Maintaining a regular lawn maintenance routine will ensure your established lawn continues to thrive.

Watering

Once established, your lawn only needs watering when necessary. This is usually one deep watering a week, about 25mm is sufficient, and will help to produce a more drought tolerant lawn. Remember, sandy soils may need a little more watering.

Mowing

Weekly mowing is recommended during the summer months as this when your lawn will grow quickest. As the growth pattern slow, less mowing is required. Always remember not to mow more than 1/3 of the leaf.

Fertilising

Though an established lawn doesn’t require it as often, we recommend spreading a fertiliser across the turf during the spring, summer and autumn months.

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How Do I Know When I’ve Watered My Lawn Enough?

By placing a container on the lawn when watering, you can take note of the time it takes to collect around 25mm in the container. This will give you a good idea of how long it takes to water your new lawn.

How do I deal with Broad-Leaf Weeds?

Clover, bindii and oxalis are some of the most common household weeds that may impact your lawn. Watch the video below for advice on how to deal with these potential threats.

Do Different Turf Varieties Need Mowing at Different Heights?

Our recommended mowing heights are as follows:

What Should I do if my Lawn Goes to Seed?

If your lawn starts going to seed, it may be a result of lack of water or nutrients. Watch the video below to see how you can rectify this situation.

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How Often Should I Fertilise an Established Lawn?

If you’re using a granular fertiliser, we recommend you fertilise your lawn in spring, summer and autumn.

For an organic (liquid) fertiliser, we recommend a monthly application during spring, summer and autumn.

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