Mixture Selection
- It is important that the correct mixture is selected according to the soil type, conditions and management
- Our most popular and proven mixtures are Greenscape, Quality Lawn, and Greenfine. See website or email for more information
Site Preparation
- The aim is to produce a firm, weed-free tilth to promote healthy germination and establishment
- Remove all debris including stones, weeds and old grass so the seed has clean soil to grow in
- Break up the soil to 15 cm deep, incorporating sharp sand into clay soils to improve drainage and structure. Remove any additional stones or debris brought to the surface
- Level the ground by raking the soil smooth, then use a straight board to drag across the surface to create an even soil bed
- Allow the soil to settle for a week, then correct any uneven patches that appear (optional)
- Finally, create a fine tilth by lightly raking the top layer, add pre-seed fertiliser to give the new grasses the best possible start (Yara Complex)
Summary
a. Cultivate site and allow to remain fallow if practical
b. Remove weeds or debris for a clean seed bed
c. Cultivate to 15cm
d. Create a fine surface tilth
Sowing
- Sowing can take place throughout most of the year, providing a good fine tilth can be prepared
- March/April and August/September are generally the most suitable
- Mix seed to ensure even species distribution
- Broadcast - Hand sow small areas or use a spreader
- Rate - 35–50g per m² (140 - 200 kg/acre)
- Aim for even coverage - it doesn’t need to be perfect, ideally go over twice
- Firm seed bed with roller or tread lightly for good seed to soil contact - Very Important
Lawn Maintenance
- Keep the soil lightly moist during the first two weeks after sowing. Avoid over-watering, as excessive moisture can hinder germination and promote disease
- Grass seedlings typically emerge within 14–21 days. Once the lawn reaches a height of 40 - 50 mm, set mowers to the highest blade setting and take no more than 1/3 off
- Gradually reduce the mowing height over several subsequent cuts to encourage
strong root development and a dense, healthy lawn - As a general rule, aim to keep the grass at 13–25 mm in summer and up to 40 mm in spring and autumn for ryegrass lawns.
- Fine fescue lawn mixes should be cut at 6 - 13 mm
- In areas with persistent weed growth, apply targeted spot treatments using an appropriate herbicide or remove weeds manually to reduce unnecessary competition
Simple Lawn Establishment Timeline
Weeks 1-2: Keep soil moist; seeds germinate
Weeks 3-4: First leaves appear
Weeks 5-6: Roots develop
Weeks 7-8: Lawn starts to fill out
Weeks 9-12: Regular mowing begins
Months 3-6: Fully established lawn
Weeks 3-4: First leaves appear
Weeks 5-6: Roots develop
Weeks 7-8: Lawn starts to fill out
Weeks 9-12: Regular mowing begins
Months 3-6: Fully established lawn
