Installing New Turf Heading Into The Cooler Months: What You Need To Know

Are you considering laying new turf in your garden during the cooler months? Interestingly, autumn and winter can be ideal times to get your lawn established, offering the benefit of less watering and maintenance. In this blog, we'll guide you through the benefits of laying turf in autumn and winter and provide you with the essential tips and insights to make an informed decision, ensuring your garden is lush and ready to enjoy come spring.

Cooler weather can present some unexpected benefits to laying turf in your garden. Here's why:

During the cooler months, the evaporation rate significantly decreases, meaning your new turf requires less watering compared to the warmer months. This conserves water and saves on your water bill.

By installing your turf during the cooler months, you give it ample time to establish itself before the high foot traffic of the summer. This means you'll have a robust, healthy lawn ready for all your summer activities.

As the weather cools, growth rates slow down, which means less mowing for you. This gives you more time to enjoy your weekends rather than spend them behind a lawnmower.

Proper soil preparation is essential for successful turf establishment, especially in cooler weather. Start by clearing the area of weeds and debris. Then, till the soil to a depth of about 15cm, incorporating a high-quality compost to improve soil structure. Use Ryan’s Turf Launcher to encourage fast root establishment. Ensure the area is level and compacted slightly to provide a firm base for the turf.

Choosing the right type of turf is vital for autumn or winter installation. Ground temperature plays a major part in successfully establishing turf. The weather patterns have been quite unpredictable in recent years, leading to greater variations in ground temperatures. Here are four varieties known for their resilience in cooler climates, as well as approximate time frames for optimum success:

• Kikuyu: A cost-effective option that's hardy and quick to establish all year round; however, it does require full sun.
• Sir Walter Buffalo: A versatile variety that thrives in both shade and full sun and is available year-round.
• Palmetto Buffalo: Offers excellent shade tolerance and maintains its green colour well into the cooler months. Best installed by May before dormancy.
• Sapphire Buffalo: This turf, distinguished by its fine texture and the highest shade tolerance, thrives in full sun as well. We harvest sapphire all year round because it continues to grow actively throughout the year.

We can harvest all varieties year-round; however, more TLC is required when the turf is dormant. The new shoots required to establish turf grow much slower over the winter months.

Here's your guide to installing a new lawn in cool weather, ensuring it thrives from the outset.

Opt for turf varieties that can brave the cold, like kikuyu or certain buffalo grasses. They're tough enough to handle winter's chill.

Clear debris and weeds, then till the soil, mixing in some compost. Use our “Turf Launcher” fertiliser to promote root growth. Properly prepared soil is crucial for strong root growth.

When your turf arrives, lay it immediately to prevent the roots from drying out. Ensure snug edges without overlaps and top dress for a seamless look. 

Even when the weather cools down, your new turf needs water. Start with a thorough soaking, then adjust based on the weather.

Limit walking on your new lawn to give it a chance to root properly. If necessary, use planks to distribute the weight evenly.

Keep an eye out for pests or diseases and maintain your lawn as needed. As the weather warms, begin a regular mowing schedule.

Planning to lay turf in the cooler months can be the best time to ensure your garden is lush and vibrant come spring. With the right preparation, choice of turf and care, your lawn can thrive. At Ryans Turf, we provide a comprehensive range of services. We offer high-quality lawn supplies tailored to cater to your needs. From turf to fertilisers and landscape supplies, laying turf throughout the year becomes easier. Contact us today for your turf needs and embrace the cool change!