Get Your Garden Ready for Summer; The Best Time to Lay Turf

Few things transform a garden as quickly as fresh turf. In just a day, a tired, patchy lawn can become a vibrant green space ready for family life, entertaining friends, and enjoying the summer months.

If you're wondering when the best time to lay turf in Torbay is, the answer depends on giving your new lawn the best possible start.

Here's everything you need to know about timing, aftercare, and why using a professional can save you time, money and frustration.

Technically, turf can be laid at almost any time of year, provided the ground isn't frozen or waterlogged. However, the ideal periods are:

March to June

Spring is one of the most popular times for turfing.

The soil begins to warm up, encouraging root growth, while regular rainfall helps the new lawn establish itself. By laying turf during these months, your lawn has plenty of time to settle in before the heat and dry conditions of summer arrive.

If you're hoping to enjoy a beautiful lawn during summer barbecues and school holidays, spring turfing is the perfect solution.

September to October

Early autumn is another excellent time to lay turf.

The soil remains warm after summer, encouraging rapid root development, while cooler air temperatures reduce stress on the grass. Autumn rainfall also helps minimise the amount of watering required.

A lawn laid in September or October often establishes strongly and emerges looking fantastic the following spring.

 

Turfing Your Garden in Time for Summer

If your dream is to relax on a lush green lawn this summer, timing is key.

Ideally, you should aim to lay turf between March and early June. This gives the grass several weeks to root into the soil before periods of prolonged heat.

Leaving it too late into summer can make establishment more difficult, as newly laid turf requires consistent moisture. During hot weather, this can mean frequent watering and increased maintenance.

Planning ahead means less stress, healthier grass, and a garden that's ready to enjoy exactly when you want it.

Why It's Best to Use a Professional Gardener

Laying turf may seem straightforward, but achieving a lawn that thrives for years requires preparation and expertise.

 

Professional turf installation ensures:

Proper Ground Preparation

The existing surface needs clearing, levelling and cultivating. Poor preparation is one of the main reasons new lawns fail.

Quality Materials

Professionals use high-quality, freshly harvested turf suitable for the local climate and conditions.

Correct Installation

Each roll must be laid tightly, staggered correctly and consolidated to eliminate air pockets.

Expert Advice

You'll receive tailored guidance on watering, mowing and ongoing care to help your investment flourish.

Saving Time and Effort

Preparing the ground and laying turf is physically demanding. A professional team can complete the work efficiently and to a high standard.

Looking After Your New Turf

Good aftercare is essential during the first few weeks.

Water Thoroughly

• • New turf should be watered immediately after installation.
  • During dry conditions, continue watering regularly to keep the soil beneath the turf moist.
  • Avoid allowing the lawn to dry out completely while roots establish.

Stay Off the Lawn

• • Limit foot traffic for the first two to three weeks.
  • This allows roots to knit into the soil without disturbance.

Monitor the Weather

• • Warm, windy days can dry out turf surprisingly quickly. Check moisture levels regularly, particularly during spring heatwaves.

Feeding

• • Once established, applying a suitable lawn feed can encourage healthy growth and colour.

 

When Should You Mow New Turf?

One of the most common questions homeowners ask is when they can mow their new lawn.

As a general rule:

• • Wait until the turf has rooted firmly into the soil.
  • This usually takes around two to three weeks, depending on conditions.
  • Test by gently lifting a corner of the turf. If it resists movement, the roots are establishing.

For the first mow:

• • Ensure the grass is dry.
  • Use a sharp mower blade.
  • Set the mower to its highest setting.
  • Never remove more than one-third of the grass height in a single cut.

Gradually lower the cutting height over subsequent mows until you reach your preferred finish.

Thinking About Upgrading Your Garden Lawn?

If your current lawn is tired, damaged, or no longer gives you the satisfaction you desire, now is the perfect time to upgrade it. A professionally installed lawn can instantly redefine your outdoor space—making it more enjoyable to spend time in.

 

Contact our team today to keep your garden looking its best all year round.

Call 07804 056171 or email enquiries@thecoastalgarden.com

Contact The Coastal Garden Company

 07804 056171

 enquiries@thecoastalgarden.com

 Arrange a Quote »

  Whether you prefer a quick call or a detailed email, we're always eager to chat and answer any questions. Don't delay upgrading your garden to the oasis you've always dreamed of—contact us now and let our professionalism and passion lead the way to your perfect outdoor space.

Making your garden the way you want it is our priority

Whether it’s a veggie plot so you can enjoy soups and salads, or a tranquil flower garden to relax in, we will make sure your garden is the way you want.

We specialise in: Landscaping, Turfing, Artificial Grass and Lawn Care, Garden Maintenance, Garden Clearances, Fencing, Decking, Gravelling, Raised Beds, Planting and much more!

Simply call 07804 056171 or email enquiries@thecoastalgarden.com