Are you looking to install a new lawn but aren’t quite sure where to start? In this blog, we walk you through the entire process; from removing your existing grass and choosing the right soil type to perfectly leveling your underlay.
Skip to:
- How to Remove Old Lawn for New Turf
- Do I Need to Till Soil for New Turf?
- Should I Test My Soil’s pH?
- Assess Your Lands Drainage?
- What Soil Should I Use for a New Lawn?
- How Thick Should My Turf Underlay Be?
- How Do I Level Out Soil for a New Lawn?
- Which Grass Type Should I Choose for My New Lawn?
How to Remove Old Lawn for New Turf
Whether weeds or patchy old turf currently occupy the space, removing all existing plant material properly will set your new lawn up for success.
The easiest and most effective way to remove old vegetation is to apply a non-selective herbicide containing glyphosate (such as Roundup or Yates Zero). About a week after your first application, once the plant material is dry and dead, drop your lawn mower to its lowest height setting and mow over the area with the catcher on.
Next, wait another week to see if any stubborn weeds or grass strike back. If you see new growth, simply repeat the herbicide application.
Tip: If your old lawn was Kikuyu or Couch, these grasses have aggressive, deep-rooting growth habit. You will likely need to repeat this eradication process a few times to ensure they are completely gone.
Do I Need to Till Soil for New Turf?
Once all vegetation is gone, turn over the soil using a rotary hoe or a garden fork. This helps alleviate soil compaction and allows you to clear away any rocks and debris.
If your soil has a high clay content, applying a clay breaker like gypsum will drastically improve the soil structure. For more information on applying gypsum to your soil, please check out our blog here.
Should I Test My Soil’s pH?
With the soil turned over, now is the perfect time to run a soil pH test to ensure it sits within the ideal range of 5.5 to 7.
Soil pH kits are easy to use and readily available at your local garden centres, hardware stores, or directly from the Lawn Solutions Lawn Store.
For more information on testing, adjusting and correcting your soils pH levels, please check out soil pH blog for more information.
Assess Your Lands Drainage
Before bringing in new soil, take a close look at your yard’s drainage. Consider the natural slopes and how water flows across the area during heavy rain. Correcting any drainage issues now will prevent pooling water and soggy patches later.
What Soil Should I Use for a New Lawn?
Now it’s time to get down to the dirt! When choosing your soil, we highly recommend using a free-draining sandy loam (roughly 80% sand and 20% loam), or a specific turf underlay mix from your local landscaping yard.
How Thick Should My Turf Underlay Be?
As a general rule, bringing in 100mm of fresh soil is recommended. Your local landscaping yard or soil supplier can easily calculate exactly how much soil you’ll need based on your lawn’s square meterage.
When ordering your soil, don’t forget to factor in the thickness of the turf slabs themselves so your finished lawn sits flush with surrounding concrete or garden edges. Turf is usually cut 30mm to 40mm thick, but it’s always best to ask your local turf supplier for exact measurements.
How Do I Level Out Soil for a New Lawn?
Once your new turf underlay arrives, use a wheelbarrow to tip the soil into small, manageable piles evenly across the yard. Then, grab a soil leveller or a sturdy rake to spread, distribute, and level the soil surface.
Which Grass Type Should I Choose for My New Lawn?
The best lawn for you depends heavily on your lifestyle and your lawns environment. Consider factors like shade, maintenance requirements, and who (or what) will be using the space.
For an everyday, low maintenance backyard suitable for pets and kids, Sir Walter DNA Certified is a great all round option.
If you don’t mind mowing a bit more frequently or are after a lawn type that can withstand lots of foot traffic from pets and kids, TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda may be the best option for you.
For more specific advice on choosing the best turf type for you and your family’s needs, it is best to have a chat with your Lawn Solutions Member. You can see who your local members are and their contact details here.
For more lawn care tips and advice, check out our other lawn care blogs here.
