What Should You Know About Growing New Lawns In Your Property?

A dull, tiring and unhealthy-looking lawn will depress you every morning and make you think about getting new lawns prepared. These new lawns become a necessity when you have renovated your property or shifted to a new one. In all these situations, getting new lawns constructed would be more than just necessary or mandatory. Things will be complex and sophisticated when getting this thing done right from scratch, and in this situation, the content present in this article will be beneficial. We have covered some important topics on laying a new lawn and what you must know about this process.

LAYING A NEW LAWN – WHAT YOU MUST KNOW?

Before starting lawn preparation or buying a new turf grass in Sydney, it is essential to consider some crucial points discussed here.

WHAT IS THE LAWN GOING TO BE USED FOR?

This might sound like a very odd question, but the purpose of the lawn will help you determine the suitable turf grass in Sydney. 

Are you looking for a purely ornamental lawn or a lawn for springtime and summer activities?

The usage level will determine the perfect type of soil you need and what process to use to lay turf.

WHAT TYPE OF SOIL YOU HAVE?

In most parts of Australia, the predominant soil type ranges from heavy clay to sandy. Before growing new lawns, you must recognise your soil type, as it will help you choose the new turf grass in Sydney. This will also give you an idea of how the turf grass will survive and what fertilisers are needed to improve soil quality.

WHAT IS CLAY SOIL?

Clay soil is rich in nutrients, but the downside is that it is moisture-retentive, and this means that this soil definitely has all the nutrients for healthy new lawns. But at the same time, it will require regular aeration to improve the drainage system and prevent flooding.

WHAT IS SANDY SOIL?

Sandy soil is known for its high-quality drainage and doesn't require as much aeration as clay soil. The downside of good-quality drainage is that the nutrients get washed away quickly, and in this situation, regular fertiliser application becomes mandatory.

WHAT IS SILT SOIL?

Silt soil is light and fertile, but at the same time, it is moisture-retentive as well and compacts very easily. The downside of compacted earth is that it inhibits the growth of deep root systems and reduces the resistance of grass plants.

WHAT IS THE NECESSITY OF ADDING ORGANIC MATTER?

While getting new lawns installed, organic matters like compost and leaf mould will improve soil quality and consistency. Another benefit of organic matter is that it loosens up the clay soil and improves its drainage, and in the sandy soil, it helps in moisture retention.

WHAT IS THE SIMPLEST WAY TO DETERMINE YOUR SOIL TYPE?

The process is easy; you just have to take the following steps.

• Take a handful of soil

• Squeeze it in your palm for a couple of seconds

• Release your palm

• If it falls apart again, you have light, sandy soil

• You have heavy clay soil if the earth holds together in your inner clenched fist

WHAT TYPE OF GRASS SEED SHOULD BE USED IN NEW LAWNS?

Once you have established the soil type and the reason behind new lawns, it's time to decide about purchasing the grass seeds. Different types of grass seeds are available in the markets, and you will definitely get dragged towards the cheapest brands. But you need to understand that cheap seeds have a low germination rate, and they will not be of as good quality as expensive seeds. It is recommended to invest in good-quality seeds as they offer high-resistance lawns that continue for years and years.

WHAT STEPS ARE INVOLVED IN CREATING NEW LAWNS?

• Remove weeds

• Remove old turf

• Low and level the soil

• Fertilise the soil

• Sow your new grass

• Press the grass seed

• Water lightly four times a day until the seeds germinate

• Reseed the bald spots two weeks after initial germination

• The first mowing after 21 days

• Limit lawn treading for the first season

WHAT ARE NEW LAWN AFTERCARE STEPS?

To maintain your new lawns, ensure that you:

• Mow regularly

• Fertilise three to four times a year

• Neutralise acidity with lawn lime once a year

• Scarify every year (or every other year)

• Overseed whenever bald patches appear

• Water your lawn during dry spells