Just got Can Do Mate to lay some new turf down and want to keep it looking lush? Taking care of your freshly laid lawn is key, especially in Brisbane’s unique climate. It might seem a bit tricky at first, but with the right approach, your turf will thrive. Let’s dive into the best way to care for your new grass.
Watering – It’s All About Balance
Watering is a big deal when it comes to new turf. Freshly laid grass is thirsty, but it’s easy to overdo it.
- Right After Installation: Once the turf is laid, give it a good soak. Make sure the water reaches about 4-6 inches deep into the soil. This helps settle the roots and gets rid of any air pockets.
- The First Couple of Weeks: For the first two weeks, water your new lawn every day, ideally in the early morning before the sun gets too hot. If it’s a scorcher of a day, you might need to water twice. Just keep an eye out for puddles—overwatering can lead to soggy soil and fungus.
- After Two Weeks: Now’s the time to start cutting back. Water deeply, about 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a week. Deep watering encourages the roots to grow downwards, which makes your lawn more drought-resistant
- Don’t Forget Drainage: Brisbane weather can go from dry spells to heavy rain real quick. Make sure your lawn has good drainage, so it doesn’t become a swamp. If you notice water pooling, think about adding some features like a dry creek bed, or get some advice from a Can Do Mate.
Mowing – Timing is Everything
If you’re itching to get the mower out, hold off for a bit! Your new turf needs time to establish itself before you give it a trim.
- First Mow: Wait at least 3-4 weeks before the first mow. To test if it’s ready, give it a gentle tug. If it feels firmly rooted, you’re good to go.
- Mowing Height: For the first mow, set your mower on its highest setting to avoid stressing the new grass. Here’s a quick guide for different grass types:
- Zoysia: 2-5 cm in the sun, 5-7 cm in shaded spots.
- Buffalo: 2-5 cm in sunny/light shade, 5-7 cm in heavier shade.
- Couch: 2-4 cm.
- Kikuyu: 2.5-5 cm
“Regular mowing helps keep your lawn looking neat but go easy at first. Slowly bring down the height over time.”
Fertilising – Don’t Rush It!
Your new lawn needs a bit of a breather before you start feeding it.
- Hold Off on Fertilising: Give it 4-6 weeks before applying fertiliser. The roots need time to settle in and get comfy before they can handle the extra nutrients.
- When to Fertilise: In Brisbane, the best times are early April (Autumn) and early September (Spring). If your lawn looks a bit worn out, you can add an extra round of fertiliser.
- Which Fertiliser to Use: A slow-release, balanced fertiliser is the way to go for steady growth. Need a quick green-up? Look for a fertiliser high in nitrogen.
Aerating – Get Some Air in There
Brisbane soil can be pretty compact, especially after laying new turf. Aerating (or “spiking”) the lawn helps loosen up the soil, so water and nutrients can get down to the roots.
- When to Aerate: Wait a few months after installing the turf before aerating. This will allow water to seep into the soil more effectively and strengthen the roots, making your lawn more resilient.
- How to Do It: You can use aerator sandals or mechanical aerators to poke small holes in the soil. This not only boosts water absorption but also reduces runoff from fertilisers and helps your lawn grow strong
Wetting Agents – Supercharge Water Absorption
Some Brisbane soils can be hydrophobic, which means they repel water. Using wetting agents can make a big difference by helping the soil soak up water more efficiently.
- When to Apply: Use a wetting agent in early spring, early summer, and autumn. Water the lawn well after applying to wash the agent from the grass blades into the soil.
- Test for Hydrophobic Soil: Pour a bit of water on the soil’s surface. If it soaks in right away, you’re in good shape. If it beads up and sits on top, your soil is hydrophobic and needs a wetting agent
Wrap-Up
Taking care of a new lawn in Brisbane isn’t rocket science, but it does need some attention to get it right. Deep watering, careful mowing, and proper fertilising will set your lawn up for long-term success. Keep an eye on drainage and aerate the lawn when needed. If you ever get stuck or need advice tailored to your lawn, don’t hesitate to reach out to Can Do Mate if you need more help!
