Preparation is the key to maintaining a magnificient instant lawn
for a long period. The following steps must be taken to ensure this is achieved ;
- A soil test is recommended prior to commencing all works. It is best to take several small samples taken at a depth from 0-150mm (avoid taking samples near concrete as this can lead to inaccurate results). Fill a small margarine container for your local nursery to complete the testing. The recommendations should be followed accurately. A CSIRO soil test kit could be purchased at your local nursery.
- Weed Control - Weed control is very important in the preparation process because persistant weeds such as couch or kikuyu can return if these are not chemically sprayed. Products such as “Round Up” are extremely safe and very effective at controlling the above types of weeds. Always follow the directions on the pack.
Soil Preparation
- Soil Preparation - The aim of soil preparation is to improve the structure of your current profile (if undesirable), improve soil aeration and improve drainage. Rotary hoeing of the area to a depth of 150mm is an acceptable method of cultivation. At this point the soil can be amended with organics such as “Dynamic Lifter”, topsoils can be incorporated to assist in improving drainage and the installation of drainage/irrigation can be completed. The soil, once tilled, should be of a fine tilth but not pulverised to the state of powder.
Removal of debris and Levelling
After cultivating, the next task is to rake the area to remove any excess debris that exists.
We recommend the following process:
- Rake the area removing any large rocks, clumps of weeds or grassess
- As you rake, level the soil/sand as you go
- Once completed, stand back an access the area and determine where levels need to improve
- Rake the high patches into the low patches and only add soil/ sand if necessary
Consolidation
- Consolidation of the area is an important part of the ground preparation as this determines how the site will settle. The most commonly used method is by rolling the area with a water filled roller. These are called landscape rollers and are easily hired from most hire outlets. The aim is to ensure the soil is firm, but not packed, to enable good root and water penetration.
- One final pass over with the rake to complete levelling and remove any small pieces of debris is recommended.
- The Instant Lawn is approximately 15mm thick so the soil height should be set appropriately to ensure the turf sits flush with the required end levels.
Once these works are completed please click on
Laying Instant Lawn for more information. |
Evergreen Instant Lawn Seed
Ground Preparation for Instant Lawns
Sprigging or Stolonising
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