Turf Laying in Townsville

Watering requirements for your lawn once established will vary with soil type and weather, but we recommend at least one good soaking per week in full-sun areas and less in shady spots. Keep in mind a newly laid lawn can take six to twelve months to fully establish, so watch for yellow patches during this time as they usually signal a lack of moisture. Adjust your watering to suit the seasons, watering in the morning during winter to avoid stunting growth, and in the early evening during summer to reduce evaporation. Always check and follow any local council water restrictions.

Start mowing once the turf has rooted, allowing about two weeks to be safe, and keep the first couple of cuts as light trims by mowing high. When the lawn is established, aim for a mowing height of roughly 30 to 50 mm in full sun and around 60 to 70 mm in shaded areas, increasing height as shade increases so the leaf can capture enough light. Regular mowing helps control weeds and encourages the lawn to thicken, but make sure your mower is in good condition because blunt blades can tear the grass and stunt growth. Adjust mowing heights with the seasons too, raising the height in winter when lower sunlight and cooler temperatures reduce photosynthesis, then lowering the height and mowing more often in summer to suit faster growth and minimise thatch build-up.

Thatch is a tightly intermingled layer of living and dead stems, leaves and roots that builds up between the actively growing grass and the soil below. A small amount is normal in healthy turf, but if it becomes too thick it can restrict air, water, fertiliser and other nutrients from reaching the roots. Heavy thatch weakens the lawn and makes it more prone to pests, disease and harsh weather. For long-term control, mow the lawn lower than normal at least once a year, but do it gradually to avoid stressing the grass. Reduce the mowing height over two to three cuts spaced about a week apart, then return the lawn to its usual height once the thatch is removed.

We recommend fertilising four to six weeks after laying your turf, then continuing every eight to twelve weeks for the rest of the year. Applying a good quality slow-release fertiliser in May and again in July will help keep your lawn healthy and green through the cooler months.

Be mindful of lawn grubs, particularly through summer and early autumn, as they can damage a lawn quickly. Watch for freshly chewed leaves, and if you suspect an issue, flood the area with soapy water and see if grubs surface. If they do, you may need to treat the lawn with an appropriate control spray. Lawn grub treatments are readily available at most hardware stores and garden centres.