Sarah, Author at Lawn Solutions Australia

Ultimate Guide to Mowing Your Lawn

Posted on August 23, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

As the temperatures are set to rise over the coming weeks, your lawn will start to actively grow. With this, your grass will need more frequent mows to keep up with growth. To help we take a look at a few tips and tricks, this will get the best cut when mowing your lawn.

Lawn Mowing Height

You may have noticed that your mower allows you to adjust and change the height you can mow at. On a typical rotary mower, a lever is located near one of the wheels, allowing you to raise and lower the mowing deck.

As a general rule of thumb, it is best to mow lower during warmer months and higher during cooler months.

Mowing Height for Different Grass Types

Green couch: 5 to 30mm

Buffalo grass (Sir Walter): 30 to 50mm

Kikuyu: 30 to 50mm

Zoysia matrella (Sir Grange): 5 to unmown

Queensland blue couch: 5 to 30mm

Broadleaf carpet grass: 30 to 50mm

Hybrid Bermuda (TifTuf): 5 to 30mm

Fescue: 30 to 50mm

The One Third Rule of Grass

A common question we get is, “how often should I mow my lawn?” The answer to this is dependent on your turf variety and local climate. For example, if you are in a warmer climate like Queensland with a fast-growing grass like couch, you will need to mow more frequently than someone in a cooler climate like Tasmania with a slower-growing grass like buffalo.

To answer the question, mow your lawn frequently enough so that you remove no more than one-third of the leaf with each pass. Cutting this way will limit the amount of stress caused to the plant and help avoid scalping.

Sharpen Your Mower Blades

Ensuring your mower blades are nice and sharp will help your grass look better after a mow and help keep your lawn healthier.

We recommend checking your mower blades at the start of every growing season to ensure they are in good shape or need sharpening.

If the blades have any cracks, bends, extremely thin blades, or even holes in the blades fin, then your blades need to be replaced.

If there is still plenty of meat left on your blades and they are in their correct shape, they may simply need to be sharpened.

For most people, the easiest fix is to have your mower blades looked at by a professional.

Tips for Mowing Your Lawn

Mow when the lawn is dry and try to avoid mowing when the lawn is wet
Mow at the same length and keep it consistent
Switch mowing directions
Mow in the mornings or afternoons. Avoid mowing in the middle of the day
Keep at a consistent pace

Different mower types

There are a few different mower types that are on the market.

A popular option for the home lawn is a rotary mower. These mower types have spinning blades rotating on a vertical axis under a cutting deck. They work best on a medium to high cut and are now available as both petrol and battery powered. Some trusty rotary mower brands to look out for include Honda, Victa, Toro, Bosh, Ryobi, Masport, Ozito, Makita and Husqvarna.

If you want to get a clean low cut, you will want to look at using a cylinder mower. There are a few different choices available. There are cheaper models available like the Ozito Cylinder Mower. Bigger cylinder mowers like Scott Bonnar, Protea, Swardman and Bushranger tend to be priced at the higher end.

Automowers are one of the new types of mowers on the market! These mowers will often require installation but will be able to maintain your lawn without the effort of a traditional mower. One of our favourites is the Husqvarna Automower.

For more mowing tips and lawn care advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

Removing & Preventing Lawn Grubs and Weeds | Oxafert & Acelepryn GR

Posted on August 23, 2022November 13, 2024 by Sarah

We love spring here at Lawn Solutions Australia! Spring is when your garden and lawn grow with more exuberance, and the greenery comes to life. But so do many warm-season weeds and some turf-related pests. In this blog, we look at the best way to prevent lawn grubs and weeds from infiltrating your lawn.

Preventing Turf Weeds

You can prevent annual summer and winter grass weeds with a pre-emergent herbicide like 3kg Oxafert and 20kg Oxafert Plus. Pre-emergent herbicides work by targeting seasonal grass weed seedlings during germination, stopping them before they appear on your lawn. As a bonus, both Oxafert and Oxafert Plus contain a fertiliser component that provide nutrients to the lawn and help keep it healthy! Oxafert Plus also contains an additional insecticide component.

When applying Oxafert and Oxafert Plus it is best to time your applications just before the seedlings are set to germinate. To stop seasonal summer weeds like Summer Grass and Crowsfoot it is best to apply in spring before the temperatures rise. For seasonal winter weeds like Winter Grass, best to apply in autumn when the temperatures are getting cooler in your area. The exact time to apply pre-emergents will depend on your local climate and current weather conditions.

Pre-emergent herbicides work by creating a barrier at the soil level. This barrier affects the germination of any new seedlings. Remember, it won’t kill existing weeds; it will prevent germination. So, as the temperatures warm up and the weed seed springs to life, Oxafert kills them before they emerge.

To prevent Summer Grass and Crowsfoot weeds, use 3kg of Oxafert per 100m2. To prevent Winter Grass and Creeping Oxalis weeds use 4kg of Oxafert per 100m2. Spread the granules evenly over dry foliage, and water in after application with at least 10mm of water.

Preventing Lawn Grubs

Grub Guard Ultimate, Acelepryn GR and Acelepryn Liquid provides safe and effective control of a wide range of insects while minimizing environmental impact and non-target organisms like Bees and Earthworms. Acelepryn works by targeting a specific muscle receptor that is common in damaging causing insects. Other non-target organisms like Bees, Earthworms, Birds, Fish, and mammals don’t use the same muscle receptors, making it one of the safest insecticides on the market!

Acelepryn targets pests such as Black Beetle, Stem Weevil, Cut Worm, and Army Worm. The great thing about Acelepryn GR compared to other pesticides is that it’s not only curative but also preventative.

Acelepryn is best applied at six monthly intervals to provide year-round protection. We recommend using Acelepryn in September/October and again in March/April as a general guide. These two applications will prevent lawn grubs throughout the entire year.

Grub Guard Ultimate

For treating Lawn Curl Grub, Argentine Stem Weevil larvae and Billbug larvae, spread the granules evenly 750g – 1.5kg per 100m2. We recommend using a calibrated spreader to ensure the granules are spread evenly to the lawn. After the granules have been spread out, lightly water in immediately after application.

For treating Caterpillars including Lawn Armyworm, Black Cutworm, and Sod Webworm, spread the granules evenly 750g per 100m2.We recommend using a calibrated spreader to ensure the granules are spread evenly to the lawn. After application, delay mowing and watering for 24 hours. After 24 hours have passed, water the granules in.

Acelepryn GR Granules

For treating beetle larvae including African black beetle, Argentine Scarab, Argentine Stem Weevil larvae and Billbug Larvae, spread the granules evenly, 1-2kg per 100m2. We recommend using a calibrated spreader to ensure the granules are spread evenly to the lawn. You can also spread the granules by hand. After the granules have been spread out, give the granules a water in with a minimum of 3mm irrigation.

For Caterpillars including Cutworm, Armyworm, and Sod Worm, spread the granules evenly, 1kg per 100m2. Again, we recommend using a calibrated spreader for an even application. You can also spread the granules by hand. After application, delay mowing and watering for 24 hours. After 24 hours have passed, water the granules in.

Acelepryn Liquid

For treating Lawn Curl Grub (Beetle larvae including: African Black Beetle larvae Argentinian Scarab larvae), Argentine Stem Weevil larvae and Billbug larvae, you can apply through a garden sprayer or watering can. For a garden sprayer use 8 – 15 mL per 5-10 L of water per 100 m2. For a watering can, mix 1.5 mL in 9 L of water and evenly apply to 10 m2. Apply the higher rate for up to 6 months residual protection, cases of high pest pressure, and late in season when mature grubs are present. Lightly water in immediately after application when applying by garden sprayer.

For treating Caterpillars including Lawn Armyworm, Black Cutworm, and Sod Webworm, apply through a garden sprayer. Use 8 mL per 5-10 L of water per 100 m2. To ensure optimum control, delay watering or mowing for 24 hours after application.

With these tips you will be able to prevent lawn grubs and weeds throughout your lawn.

For more lawn care tips and advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

Outdoor Heating Solutions for Winter

Posted on July 26, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

When it comes to outdoor heating, you probably think of a trusty fire pit or an old patio heater. However, with new outdoor heating options, there is now a great range of options to help you keep you warm when enjoying the outdoors. This blog will share some of our new favourite outdoor heating options.

We will be focusing on three main types of outdoor heating options. These are gas heaters, electric heaters, and firepits.

Outdoor Gas Heaters

A wide range of gas heating options are available to suit all budgets. Prices generally start from $179 and can go up to $800 (or higher). When looking at gas heaters for your area, you will need to consider the size and space you want to heat, the assemble required and the design.

Mimosa Black Panoramic Powder Coated Short Area Heater

The Mimosa Black Panoramic Coated Short Area Heater is a portable, stylish, and functional outdoor heater. However, this heater does require some assembly.

Affordable price point $199
Body level heating coverage
Adjustable heat settings
Easy to assemble
Flame failure & tip over safety features

This heater has received positive reviews, with customers liking that it was easy to assemble and provided significant warmth.

Jumbuck Charcoal Gas Patio Outdoor Heater

The Jumbuck Charcoal Gas Patio Outdoor Heater is a portable and functional outdoor heater.

Classic design
Heats up to 17 m2
Push button ignition system
Temperature settings knob
Safety tip over switch
Wheels for easy mobility
Affordable price point $179

This product received primarily 5-star reviews. Users noted that assembly was time-consuming and additional sand was required to stable the base. But it produced a great amount of heat and made spending time outdoors more enjoyable.

Heatstrip Portable LPG Outdoor Heater

The Heatstrip Portable LPG Outdoor Heater is a modern, stylish, and elegant outdoor gas heater.

Electronic finger pull ignition
World class wind protection rating at 16km an hour
Heater head made from high quality stainless steel with high temperature paint coating
Ideal for outdoor alfresco, balcony and patio areas
Parts are sub-assembled for easy instillation
Premium price point of $839

This heater has seen many good reviews. Its wheels make it easy to move, and it produces a lot of heat while being stylish. However, one review noted that there were no temperature control options.

Outdoor Electric Heaters

Outdoor heaters are another great option to look into. These heaters can be mounted onto a wall and do not need gas bottles to be replaced.

Jumbuck 2000W Radiant Patio Heater

The Jumbuck 2000W Radiant Patio Heater is a great outdoor heater to help keep you warm during cool winter nights.

Free standing and wall mount option both included
3 power settings
Easy to use, plug in and switch on for instant heat
Adjustable height
Affordable price point $89

This heater has mostly good reviews. Consumers liked that it was easy to set up, included both the stand and wall mount, and worked well heating smaller areas. However, if you have a larger area, it was recommended to look at using multiple heaters across the space. A few reviews mentioned that this heater is better suited for sheltered areas away from the wind.

Heatstrip Intense Black Infrared Electric Outdoor Heater

The Heatstrip Intense Black Infrared Electric Outdoor Heater is a stylish indoor and outdoor heater that can instantly provide a heating solution.

Easy DIY installation with included brackets
Ideal for protected and semi exposed areas
High quality construction with hexagonal grille
Priced at $499

Consumers were happy with the quality and durability of the product. They liked the strong heat it could reach and maintain on cold winter nights. Customers were also pleased with the stylish black design against the orange light.

Heatstrip 2400W Classic With Remote

The Heatstrip 2400W Classic With Remote is a sleek and attractive outdoor and indoor heater, great for alfresco areas, verandas and pergolas.

3 temperature settings
Slim and compact design
Convenient DIY instillation
24-hour timer
Premium price of $598

This heater has received mostly 4–5-star reviews. Customers liked the stylish design that blended in well to the ceiling. It was noted that the area needed to be sheltered away from wind to provide effective heat.

Fire pits

An effective way of heating is to use a fire pit for open outdoor spaces. When using fire pits out on the lawn, there are a few extra steps to take to ensure you are protecting your lawn from the heat. Check out our blog here for more information here.

Mimosa 52cm Small Euro Fire Pit

The Mimosa 52cm Small Euro Fire Pit has a stylish modern design that will help bring some warmth into your outdoor area.

Made from heavy duty cast iron
Grey finish
Easy to assemble
Affordable price $55

This product has seen great reviews from customers. They have liked that it was easy to assemble and is heavy enough to be stable.

Jumbuck Fuoco Standing Grill and Fire Pit

The Jumbuck Fuoco Standing Grill And Fire Pit doubles as a fire pit and grill, perfect for keeping warm and cooking outside.

Bottom wood storage area
Removable cooking grill
Powder coated steel construction
Priced at $199

Customers have loved the combination of the grill and fire pit, but they would have liked to have had a cover created for it.

Fire Globes Australia

FireGlobes Australia specialises in hand-drawn and hand-cut bespoke fire pits. These fire pits are custom-made and are totally unique.

Full and half size pits available
Come with a stand and fire grate
Available in 7 different sizes
Custom designs
Premium price point

Fireglobes have great reviews. Customers have loved the ability to have their own creative input and love how it looks both during the day and when lit at night.

If you need to get your lawn looking great quickly for when entertaining outdoors, why not try a lawn pigment product like ColourGuard Plus!

For more outdoor inspiration for your backyard and garden, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

Guide to the Best Outdoor Winter Party | Winter Warmer Recipes

Posted on July 26, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

Are you looking to take your backyard party to the next level? We share some of our favourite winter warmer recipes to help you get the party going in winter when enjoying the backyard and lawn.

Hot Chocolates for the kids and parents

Hot chocolates are the ultimate crowd favourite across all ages! One of our favourite hot chocolate choices here at Lawn Solutions Australia is the Cadbury Drinking Chocolate! Simply whisk milk and your favourite hot chocolate mix over a stove top until warm, then serve.

For the parents, you can add some of your favourite spiced rum, Kahlua, Baileys, or chocolate liqueur for an extra twist!

If you have some free time when preparing for your guests, why not give making hot chocolates from scratch a try!

What you will need:

½ cup sugar
¼ cup baking cocoa
Dash of salt
1/3 cup hot water
4 cups milk
¾ teaspoon vanilla extract
Optional – miniature marshmallows, sweetened whipped cream or cinnamon sticks

In a saucepan, combine sugar, cocoa, and salt. Add water; bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Stir in milk; heat to serving temperature (do not boil). Remove from the heat; stir in vanilla. Whisk until frothy. If desired, garnish with marshmallows, cream, or cinnamon sticks.

Recipe by Taste of home

Mulled Wine (adults only)

Mulled wine is another easy to make drink that is great when entertaining outdoors. This is traditionally seen at Christmas markets across Europe, but is more commonly consumed here in Australia throughout winter. It is easy to make recipe and is best shared with a group of family and friends, especially on a cool winter night.

Ingredients:

2 oranges
1 lemon
1 lime
200 g caster sugar
6 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
3 fresh bay leaves
1 whole nutmeg, for grating
1 vanilla pod
2 bottles Chianti or other Italian red wine
2 star anise

Method:

Peel large sections of peel from the oranges, lemon and lime using a speed-peeler.
Put the sugar in a large saucepan over a medium heat, add the pieces of peel and squeeze in the orange juice.
Add the cloves, cinnamon stick, bay leaves and about 10 to 12 gratings of nutmeg. Halve the vanilla pod lengthways and add to the pan, then stir in just enough red wine to cover the sugar.
Let this simmer until the sugar has completely dissolved into the red wine, then bring to the boil. Keep on a rolling boil for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until you’ve got a beautiful thick syrup. The reason I’m doing this first is to create a wonderful flavour base by really getting the sugar and spices to infuse and blend well with the wine. It’s important to make a syrup base first because it needs to be quite hot, and if you do this with both bottles of wine in there you’ll burn off the alcohol.
When your syrup is ready, turn the heat down to low and add your star anise and the rest of the wine. Gently heat the wine and after around 5 minutes, when it’s warm and delicious, ladle it into heatproof glasses and serve.

Recipe by Jamie Oliver

Roasted Leg of Lamb

When entertaining you can’t go wrong with a roasted leg of lamb and veggies. If it’s your first time cooking a leg of lamb, don’t be intimidated, it is a simple and easy dish to cook up especially when preparing for a crowd on a cold winter night.

This recipe uses the Weber barbecue. You can use this recipe for a normal oven, but you may need to adjust your cooking times.

Ingredients:

1 x 2 to 2.5 kg leg of lamb
3 garlic cloves, sliced
Fresh rosemary sprigs
½ lemon
Sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions:

Prepare the barbecue for indirect cooking over medium heat (190°C to 230°C). If you are using a Weber Q barbecue, set up your barbecue with a convection tray and trivet.
Using a sharp knife, cut 10 to 12 small slits into the flesh of the lamb. Push a piece of garlic and a small sprig of rosemary into each slit.
Squeeze the lemon juice all over the lamb. Season with salt and pepper.
To estimate the cooking time, measure the meat through its thickest part and cook for 1 minute per millimetre for medium. For example if the roast is 90mm thick, cook for 90 minutes.
Roast the lamb over indirect medium heat for 1 ¼ to 1 ½ hours, with the lid closed, or until cooked to your liking.
Once the lamb has cooked, remove from the barbecue and leave to rest for 15 minutes before carving.

Recipe by Weber

Dessert

Now time for everyone’s favourite, dessert! This caramel pear self-saucing pudding recipe is just the right mix of warm and sweet for a cool winter night. Here’s what you will need…

Ingredients:

Caramel sauce:

1/2 cup (110g) firmly packed brown sugar
3/4 cup (180ml) boiling water
50 gram butter, chopped

Caramel pear self-saucing puddings:

425 gram can pear slices in natural juice, drained
3/4 cup (110g) self-raising flour
1/3 cup (75g) firmly packed brown sugar
20 gram butter, melted
1/3 cup (80ml) milk
1/3 cup (40g) pecans, chopped coarsely icing sugar, for decorating

Method:

Preheat the oven to moderate (180°C / 160°C fan-forced). Grease four shallow ovenproof dishes (1 1/4cup / 300ml capacity). Place dishes on an oven tray.
Divide pear slices among dishes.
Combine flour, sugar, butter, and milk in a small bowl; mix well. Spread the mixture evenly over pear slices in dishes. Sprinkle batter with pecans.
To make caramel sauce, combine all the ingredients in a medium heatproof jug; stir until sugar is dissolved and butter melted.
Pour caramel sauce slowly over the back of a spoon over mixture in dishes. Bake in a moderate oven for about 25 minutes or until firm.
Dust lightly with sifted icing sugar, serve immediately with cream or ice-cream, if desired.

Recipe from Womens Weekly

If you need to get your lawn looking great quickly for when entertaining outdoors, why not try a lawn pigment product like ColourGuard Plus!

We hope these winter warmer recipes give you some inspiration for when you are hosting your party or gathering this winter. Make sure you check out our other blogs for more yard inspiration here.

Grasses in Winter | A Geographical Guide

Posted on July 26, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

As we are in the cooler months, most lawns across Australia will be slow in growth and can lose some colour. This is mainly due to the drop in soil temperatures and the reduced amount of direct sunlight. However, as Australia is such a large continent, different areas will face different conditions at each time of year. This article looks at what is expected to happen with your lawn type in your area during winter.

For this article, we will be separating Australia into three regions. The first Canberra, Melbourne, Adelaide, and the Southern regions of Australia. The second Sydney, Newcastle, Gold Coast, and areas north of Canberra. The third Darwin, Perth, Cairns, and areas north of Brisbane.

Canberra, Melbourne, and Adelaide

These regions are generally the hardest hit by cooler temperatures. These regions will usually experience multiple frosts per year and have bigger temperature variations. The hot summers and cold winters can make it challenging to find a turf variety that suits these conditions year-round.

Most of the common grasses here in Australia are warm-season grasses. This includes Buffalo, Couch, and Kikuyu. In winter, they can slow in growth, and some colour loss is expected. Whilst they do lose colour, they will always naturally bounce back in colour and health once the weather warms up.

Frosts cause damage to turf when the moisture inside the leaf blade freezes and expands. This causes the cell wall of the grass to rupture, damaging the turf. Frost can also cause significant discolouration to the leaf as the damaged cell walls slows down photosynthesis.

Couch and Kikuyu grasses like Eureka Kikuyu and TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda have a fast-growing nature, making them able to bounce back quickly once the warmer temperatures start in spring.

Buffalo grasses usually need a few weeks of warmer temperatures to return to their former colour.

Zoysia grasses are generally slower growing grasses, so they will take the longest to bounce back from frost damage once the warmer temperatures come.

Fescue, Rye Grass, and cool-season blends are common around this region. These grasses will hold better colour during cooler conditions as they contain proteins that prevent them from freezing. However, during the warmer months, these grasses will require significantly more water than warm-season grasses to stay green and healthy. Cool season grasses also have poor weather tolerance and are susceptible to grub damage.

Sydney, Newcastle, and Gold Coast

Sydney, Newcastle, and Gold Coast areas will notice a drop in temperatures over winter. Over winter these areas will encounter very few frosts. Lawns will mostly lose colour and will be impacted by shorter hours of sunlight.

Like in Canberra, Melbourne, and Adelaide, you will mostly find warm season grasses like Buffalo, Couch, Kikuyu, and Zoysia. As these grasses are warm-season varieties, they will slowdown in growth and can lose some colouring.

Cool-season grasses are not as common in this region. This is due to the warmer winters and warmer summers compared to southern regions. As a result, cool-season grasses will struggle and require more water to survive and thrive than warm-season varieties.

Sun loving turf varieties like couch and kikuyu will primarily be impacted by the shorter hours of sun during the day. These varieties need around 6 hours of direct light per day. When this is reduced and shade levels are increased, this can interrupt the turf. If your lawn lacks sunlight throughout winter, prune back any surrounding trees and shrubs to allow more sunlight to reach your lawn.

Buffalo like Sir Walter DNA Certified and Zoysia grasses like Sir Grange Zoysia are generally more shade-tolerant turf varieties, needing around 4 + hours of direct light.

Darwin, Perth, and Cairns

These regions usually have warm temperatures throughout winter with the occasional cool day. Therefore, in these areas warm-season grasses like couch, zoysia, buffalo and other broadleaf grasses like carpet grass are primarily grown.

These regions will still experience warmer temperatures and are often unaffected in winter.

If you want to up your lawn game and keep it green over winter, we recommend applying a lawn pigment product like ColourGuard Plus. ColourGuard Plus is a 100% natural grass colourant. It is safe to use on all lawn types, year-round and safe to use around pets and children.

For more lawn care tips and advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

How do they make new ‘hybrid’ grasses? | TifTuf ‘Hybrid’ Bermuda

Posted on July 26, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

Some of you may be familiar with new superior grass varieties like TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda. But what does the hybrid mean, and how are grasses like this created? In this blog, we’ll explain how…

Hybrid Turf Varieties

Technically all turfgrass varieties are hybrid varieties, in that they are seedlings that are the result of cross-pollination of plants with different DNA.

Interspecific hybrids are seedlings from cross-pollination of plants of different species.

F1 hybrids are the first seed from a selective cross-pollination of the same or different species. They may or may not be capable of producing seed. F2 is the second generation of these fertile F1 seedlings.

Seeded Hybrids

Seeded hybrid varieties are developed by natural cross-pollination of two or more parental lines.

Turfgrass Hybrids

Turfgrass hybrid varieties do not breed true, meaning that the seedlings they produce are different and not physiologically the same. With every seed being genetically different, over time you will see segregated patches which gradually become visible, especially during the cooler months.

This means that hybrid varieties require vegetative propagation to maintain the original plant’s phenotype or DNA. These are known as clonal varieties. Those that are hybrid varieties vegetatively propagated from clonal plants or an individual seedling selection.

Vegetatively propagated couch hybrid varieties are developed by a selection of superior plants from established seeded or vegetatively propagated plantings.

Triploids

This is where things get a little bit more scientific, but we’ll try to keep it simple…

The branded varieties are primarily known as triploids, which have 3 sets of chromosomes. This includes hybrid couch or bermuda grasses, like TifTuf.

TifTuf has proven itself to be the very best couch grass available through extensive trials and testing throughout Australia and the US where it was bred.

The name “triploid hybrid” comes from its two sets of C. dactylon (N=36) and one set of C. transvaalensis (N=18) chromosomes.

The couch triploid hybrids are Interspecific hybrids developed by cross-pollinating plants of Cynodon dactylon known as Bermuda grass and Cynodon transvaalensis, known as African Dogtooth grass.

Propagation

These hybrid plants are sterile and incapable of producing seed.

This means the commercial production of these triploid couch hybrids needs to be entirely vegetative as instant turf, sprigs, or plugs.

So, if we specifically look at TifTuf for example. TifTuf has uneven sets of chromosomes being a Triploid, does not produce pollen and is considered sterile. If by chance TifTuf produced a seed, it would not replicate TifTuf’s phenotype.

Turf quality of vegetatively propagated couch triploid hybrids is consistently higher than the quality of seeded common couch hybrids.

Therefore, commercial hybrid turfgrass varieties, that are kept physiologically the same in replicated tests, are consistently superior to seeded varieties.

TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda

All accredited TifTuf turf suppliers in Australia grow all their material from foundation plant material that is then sprig planted and established.

This ensures TifTuf’s trueness to type. It is an incredible grass with a specific set of traits that make it stand above all others, so it’s important that it’s kept genetically the same.

Certified TifTuf turf fields are then audited and assessed for genetic purity to ensure that the grass harvested is 100% pure TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda. This is conducted through AusGAP, Australia’s Genetic Assurance Program for turfgrass.

To make sure you are getting the real deal when it comes to the turf variety you buy, make sure you buy it from an accredited turf supplier who can supply the AusGAP Certification certificate for proof of authenticity.

For more lawn care tips and advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

How to Back Lap a Cylinder Mower

Posted on July 25, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

If you have a cylinder mower, a sharp reel is important to ensure a nice clean cut to your grass. But, do you know how to Back Lap a Cylinder mower? This blog looks at how to sharpen the blades on a cylinder mower.

What is back lapping?

If your reel and bedknife are not working as they should, your grass blades will be torn rather than cut. This isn’t great for the appearance of your lawn and is also not ideal for plant health.

Back lapping is the process of maintaining the sharpness of your cutting cylinder blades. This helps to ensure your reel and bedknife are bedded together and cut evenly, providing a sharp and even cut. Once the cylinder edge has been lost, you will need to have the cylinder re-ground.

Before you undertake the following back lapping process, it’s extremely important that you handle the machine safely and wear suitable protective equipment. Make sure you are wearing gloves, you are not wearing any bagging clothing, particularly long sleeves, and have a safe working area clear of clutter and away from others.

Step 1 –

The first thing you want to do is make sure that the machine won’t function. Turn the on/off switch to off and for extra safety remove the spark plug.

Step 2 –

Tip the cylinder mower backwards so that the reel and bedknife are easily accessible.

Step 3 –

Use a Mill Bastard file to take the round edge off the bed knife. As you do so, move the cylinder reel away from the pinch point. Using the file to put a sharp cutting edge on the leading edge of the bedknife.

Step 4 –

Use a cordless drill or back lapping machine and socket to turn the cylinder reel backwards.

While it is spinning, wet down the reel and bedknife lightly with water. A spray bottle will make this easier to get a nice even coverage of water across all elements.

Step 5 –

Next, apply back lapping compound or paste. This paste is a water-soluble grinding paste designed specifically for sharpening blades.

Apply back lapping compound evenly using a small to medium-sized paintbrush with a long handle while the reel is spinning. Using a piece of PVC pipe over the handle can help extend the length of the handle so your hands are kept at a distance from the blades.

The brushes only need to flick the reel blades as they spin lightly brushing as it goes around. Do not allow the brush to enter too far into the cylinder.

Important note: It is extremely important you are paying full attention while doing this and keep your hand as far away from the spinning reel as possible.

It is suggested to allow the cylinder to spin backwards after applying the grind paste for 5 minutes.

Step 6 –

Once the blades have been coated, wash off the paste using a hose.

Step 7 –

Adjust the cylinder position evenly to the bedknife, ensuring both sides and just touching the bedknife and the cylinder is spinning smoothly and not too tight.

Make sure the cylinder adjustment lock nuts and loosen prior to adjusting.

Step 8 –

Check with paper for sharpness. Checking cutting cleanly right across all the reel blades. The paper should cut easily like it would when using sharp scissors.

Once you have completed this process spray your cylinder, bedknife and other moving parts with WD40 or a lanolin spray like Inox to stop corrosion and rust.

Now you know how to Back Lap your Cylinder Mower. You should now have your cylinder perfectly balanced, sharp, and ready perfectly cut your lawn.

For more lawn care tips and advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.

Lawn Care Product Bundles

Posted on July 20, 2022November 15, 2024 by Sarah

Great value lawn care product bundles to help you get a better lawn now available!

Weed and Feed Bundle

The Weed and Feed Bundle includes:

Lawn Solutions Premium Fertiliser 10kg
Lawn Solutions Lawn Kelper
Lawn Solutions All Purpose Weed Control
Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner
Lawn Solutions Gardening Gloves

This Weed and Feed bundle contains a great combination of products to help get your lawn back on track for spring and summer. Best results for your lawn are achieved by applying dedicated premium herbicides and fertiliser products separately. This is why our Weed and Feed Bundle contains both All Purpose Weed Control herbicide for treating broadleaf weeds and Lawn Solutions Premium Lawn Fertiliser for feeding your lawn.

We also include our brand-new Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner to help you know what lawn care activities and products to apply to your lawn throughout the year.

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Grub Treat and Protect Bundle

Lawn Solutions Grub Guard Ultimate
Lawn Solutions Battle Insecticide
Lawn Solutions Gardening Gloves
Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner

Protect your lawn from lawn pests with this one-two punch to treat an existing infestation and protect your lawn for up to 6 months. If you have noticed damage to your lawn caused by black beetle larvae or Army worm, this bundle provides Battle Insecticide for a fast knock-down treatment, along with Grub Guard Ultimate powered by Acelepryn – the best product on the market for lawn pest prevention in lawns.

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Weed Prevention and Fertiliser Bundle

The Weed Prevention and Fertiliser Bundle includes:

Lawn Solutions Oxafert 3kg
Lawn Solutions Premium Fertiliser 10kg
Landscaper Pro Hand-Held Spreader
Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner

This bundle has a great combination of spreadable granular products plus a quality spreader to spread them out evenly across your lawn with.

We also include our brand-new Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner to help you know what lawn care activities and products to apply to your lawn throughout the year.

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Liquid Lawn Lover Bundle

The Liquid Lawn Lover Bundle includes:

Lawn Rescue
2L Lawn Soaker
Exceed Liquid Fertiliser 2.5Ltr Concentrate
Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner

Do you prefer to use liquid lawn care products? Well, this bundle has every liquid you need to help maintain the health of both your lawn and the soil that it relies on. With a combination of products, including soil conditioners with seaweed extracts, wetting agents to assist in water permeability, and liquid nutrient for foliar fed nutrition, you can ensure your lawn has all the liquid treatments it needs.

We also include our brand-new Year-Round Lawn Care Program Spinner to help you know what lawn care activities and products to apply to your lawn throughout the year.

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The Lawn Solutions Australia App

Posted on July 13, 2022October 17, 2023 by Sarah

Are you looking for lawn care advice? We have heaps of info all available on our new app!

Have you got a weed, lawn pest or disease you can’t identify? Our app is full of resources to help, or you can submit an enquiry with one of our experts and we can offer free identification and advice for treatment.

Looking to learn more about lawn varieties or find a local accredited supplier? The LSA App has a feature linking to all our turf varieties and accredited Lawn Solutions Australia Members.

Plus never miss a Lawn Store Promotion or Giveaway with app notification alerts!

We also provide regular seasonal tips through an in-built calendar!

Available to download today on both the Apple Store and Google Play Store.

Download the Lawn Solutions Australia App today!

US Turf Experts Tour Down Under

Posted on June 30, 2022November 25, 2022 by Sarah

The world is opening its doors again and the best in turf from the USA are coming back to our shores. In collaboration with the Australian Turf Certification Program (AusGAP), the International Turfgrass Genetic Assurance Program (ITGAP) and Lawn Solutions Australia, two of the international turf industries pre-eminent turf experts recently headed our way.

Billy Skaggs from Georgia Crop Improvement Association

Mr Billy Skaggs, seasoned Production Field Inspector for the International Turfgrass Genetic Assurance Program (ITGAP) toured Australia visiting AusGAP clients ensuring ITGAP policies and practices are up to standard.

Mr Skaggs was in Australia from the 20^th of May to the 3rd of June and as AusGAP is governed by ITGAP, he undertook an audit on all clients, documenting submissions and correspondence to ensure compliance to their policies and procedures. His visit also included turf variety inspections of the AusGAP programs production facilities in SE QLD, SA & VIC during this period.

AusGAP is the only independently endorsed turf certification program from ITGAP internationally. Mr Skaggs monitors turf production sites worldwide to ensure that turfgrasses are grown, inspected and sold under a rigorous set of rules and guidelines. ITGAP inspectors such as Mr Skaggs undertake third-party inspections to verify a member’s compliance with ITGAP standards, provide reports of compliance (or non-compliance) to the owner of the turfgrass variety and to the member/grower and maintain all records of annual and quarterly certificates and inspections. ITGAP is the international iteration of AusGAP and is an internationally accepted and recognised verification and certification program for turfgrass production.

Dr Brian Schwartz, University of Georgia (UGA) Turfgrass Breeding Program

Dr Brian Schwartz is a superstar of the turf world and is the man behind the release of what is proven to be the world’s best couch grass, TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda. Dr Schwartz continues the work of legendary turf breeder Dr Wayne Hanna, who planted over 27,700 couch grasses he had cross bred in 1993.

In 2009 Dr Schwartz arrived at UGA, expanded evaluation plots and developed real world test sites. After more than a decade of extensive trials with collaboration between a five-university collective known as the Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) the SCRI determined to release a single couch grass cultivar. This cultivar was the University of Georgia and Dr Schwartz’s grass DT-1 which would officially be named TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda.

Dr Schwartz continues his extensive research and breeding program at UGA and we were excited to have had him in Australia this year to share his knowledge. Dr Schwartz was in Australia from the 9th to the 27th of May, he visited some of the industry’s best turf growers, suppliers of TifTuf and presented at the Lawn Solutions Australia National Conference on the 24th of May.