The best time to lay a new lawn is typically in the spring or fall. During these seasons, the soil is moist, temperatures are mild, and the grass has ample time to establish roots before the hot summer or cold winter arrives.
However, before you lay a new lawn, there are several steps you need to follow to ensure that it grows well and stays healthy. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you lay a new lawn:
Prepare the ground for your new lawn:
The first step in laying a new lawn is to prepare the ground. This involves removing any old grass, weeds, or other vegetation. You can use a sod cutter, rototiller, or a shovel to do this. After removing the vegetation, level the ground using a garden rake and make sure it is smooth and free of any large rocks or debris.
Test the soil:
It’s important to know the pH level and nutrient content of your soil before you lay the new lawn. You can do this by taking a soil sample and sending it to a lab for testing. Based on the results, you can then amend the soil with fertilizer, lime, or other soil amendments as needed to ensure that it’s suitable for growing grass.
Choose the right grass for your new lawn:
When it comes to laying a new lawn, using pre-grown grass and indigenous is a great option for those who want a fast and hassle-free solution. In South Africa, there are several varieties of pre-grown grass that are suitable for different climates and soil types. Here are some of the most popular options:
When choosing pre-grown grass, it’s important to consider the climate, soil type, and amount of sunlight your lawn will receive. You can consult with your local garden center or nursery to get recommendations on the best variety of pre-grown grass for your area.
- Kikuyu grass: Kikuyu grass is a hardy, drought-tolerant variety that is well suited to South Africa’s hot and dry climate. It has a lush green appearance and is known for its fast growth and high wear tolerance, making it a popular choice for lawns and sports fields.
- Buffalo grass: Buffalo grass is another popular option for South African lawns. It is known for its soft, fine blades and its ability to thrive in dry and hot conditions. Buffalo grass has a natural drought tolerance and requires minimal maintenance, making it a low-maintenance option for homeowners.
- Couch grass: Couch grass is a low-growing, dense variety that is commonly used for golf courses and sports fields. It has a fine texture and a lush green appearance and is known for its high wear tolerance and ability to recover quickly from damage.
Lay the pre-grown grass
Once you have chosen your pre-grown grass, the process of laying it is straightforward. You simply need to prepare the ground by removing any existing vegetation and levelling the ground, and then lay the grass on top of the soil. Be sure to water the grass thoroughly after laying it to help it establish roots and avoid drying out.
Mow:
Once the grass is about two inches tall, it’s time to start mowing. However, it’s important to be gentle at first and mow only a little bit of the grass at a time. Gradually increase the height of the mower each time you mow until you reach the desired height.
Fertilize:
Fertilizing your lawn is important to keep it healthy and encourage growth. A good time to fertilize is in the spring and fall, but remember to keep the lawn well watered when the grass is actively growing. Be sure to use a fertilizer that’s appropriate for the type of grass you have.
In conclusion, laying a new lawn can be a big project, but with proper preparation and care, it can be a rewarding experience that gives you a beautiful and healthy lawn. Just remember to choose the right time of year, prepare the ground, choose the right grass seed, spread the seed evenly, keep the ground moist, mow the grass gently, and fertilize as needed. With these steps, you can lay a new lawn that will be the envy of your neighbourhood.
