Growing, Maintaining and Harvesting Turf
Have you ever wondered what goes on behind-the-scenes of a working turf farm. It’s a lot more than just watching grass grow, it takes years of experience and dedication to develop the skills required to grow and harvest quality turf.
Toolbox Meeting
Every day is different, but on a normal day on a turf farm generally at the start of the week, staff will get together for a toolbox meeting. Workers gather to discuss the tasks and goals for the day, ensuring everyone is aligned and aware of their responsibilities. This coordination is crucial for smooth operations and efficient workflow.
Field Inspection
One of the first tasks of the day is field inspection. Skilled workers walk through the turf fields, carefully observing the health and condition of the grass. They look for signs of pests, diseases, or any other issues that may require attention as this can dictate some of the tasks required for the day.
How Grass is Planted on a Turf Farm
Most turf varieties in Australia will be planted by sprigs, which are small sections of mature grass stems. These sprigs are carefully placed and pressed into the soil, allowing them to take root and establish themselves.
Water is essential for the growth and establishment of sprigged planted turf. Workers operate irrigation systems to water the fields, ensuring the grass receives the necessary hydration. They monitor the water distribution, adjusting as needed to prevent overwatering or under-watering.
Workers regularly inspect and repair any issues with the irrigation infrastructure, such as broken sprinkler heads or damaged pipes.
Application of Fertilisers, Herbicides and Pesticides
Another essential task on a turf farm is the application of fertilisers. Workers carefully measure and apply the appropriate fertiliser blends to provide the grass with essential nutrients. This step contributes to the vibrant colour and overall health of the turf.
Pest and weed control are also a crucial aspect of turf farm management. Workers monitor the fields for any signs of pests or insects and implement targeted control measures.
Mowing of Turf Paddocks
Mowing the turf paddocks is a big task that is undertaken in some cases a few times a week to maintain the desired height and uniform appearance. Skilled workers operate tractors with large cutting decks to carefully trim the grass, promoting denser growth and a neat, manicured finish.
How Do You Harvest Turf?
Daily turf harvesting is an integral part of a turf farm’s activities and is usually started very early in the morning. When the turf reaches its ideal maturity, it’s time for a paddock to be opened for harvesting.
Skilled workers use advanced turf harvesting machines featuring robotics. These machines carefully cut the mature grass into turf rolls or slabs and stack it on a pallet. This task requires precision and attention to ensure the turf is harvested in optimal condition before loading onto trucks for delivery.
Machinery Cleaning and Maintenance
The day concludes with equipment maintenance. Workers clean and inspect the machinery, ensuring they are in optimal condition for the next day’s tasks. Regular equipment maintenance prolongs its lifespan and guarantees smooth operations.
We this gives you a good idea of how extensive turf farming can be and what goes into supplying premium quality turf. If you are in need of some turf, get in touch with your local Lawn Solutions Australia Accredited turf suppliers here.
You can find more lawn care tips and advice on our website here.
