Green Fingers - Need advice?

iMacMart · 13 Apr 2008 at 08:14

I laid a new lawn yesterday and a friend has said I should be putting a roller over it within the next few days?

After reading up on the net last night, it appears that this isn't the best thing to do?

As soon as I laid it I had a sprinkler over it for 4 hours, it wasn't cheap turf so I want to make sure I get it right first time?

Anyone in the business know whats best?

Thanks

eggnoodle · 13 Apr 2008 at 08:34

I have no idea how rolling fresh turf will help. You shouldn't even walk on it for a little while until roots are nicely established, otherwise you will just kill it off and it will not grow.

Just keep it nicely watered for 2 - 3 weeks in the early evening to not scorch the grass if it gets hot, but do not drown it, just wet enough so that the topsoil is also moist, and keep checking to make sure it is rooting into your topsoil.

iMacMart · 13 Apr 2008 at 08:54

I thought it would push the roots closer to the soil beneath?

Your comments sound about right to me though.... Just thought I ask rather than chance it

eggnoodle · 13 Apr 2008 at 09:19

Assuming you have placed them pretty solid on a moist topsoil in the first place they will work themselves through no problem.

You should not need to push the roots closer with a roller, flattening the grass will just break up the soil the turf rolls came established in, as this would mean they would have to establish growth all over again, instead of just into the top soil.

Most important aspect is to keep them and the top soil watered for a few weeks, with as little disturbance as possible to not hinder growth.

Cosimo · 13 Apr 2008 at 10:25

No need to use a roller. Ensure that the lawn is watered to establish growth. When you get around to your first mow, grass should be at least 5cm in height make sure that you cut back to 2.5cm and no lower.

iMacMart · 13 Apr 2008 at 12:39

eggnoodle said:
Assuming you have placed them pretty solid on a moist topsoil in the first place they will work themselves through no problem.

You should not need to push the roots closer with a roller, flattening the grass will just break up the soil the turf rolls came established in, as this would mean they would have to establish growth all over again, instead of just into the top soil.

Most important aspect is to keep them and the top soil watered for a few weeks, with as little disturbance as possible to not hinder growth.

Soil was farily dry as it was very sunny here yesterday as I laid it..

Gave it a good soaking straight after though...

Won't touch it now, other than regular water for 3 weeks or so

Thanks guys