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Can I Lay Turf In Autumn?

Autumn is an ideal time to lay turf, as the combination of cooler temperatures and lingering soil warmth creates perfect conditions for strong root establishment before winter. Installing turf during this season helps the grass settle in more efficiently and reduces the need for frequent watering and mowing compared to the hotter months.

In the video below, you'll find expert tips on properly installing turf in autumn, ensuring your lawn remains healthy and vibrant throughout the cooler months.

Why Autumn is a Great Time to Lay Turf

Autumn perfectly balances cooler temperatures and warm soil, creating optimal conditions for instant turf installation. The mild weather helps promote strong root establishment without the stress of extreme heat that comes with summer. Turf laid in autumn has plenty of time to settle in and develop a deep root system before winter sets in.

Benefits of Laying Turf in Autumn:

• Cooler temperatures reduce stress on newly laid turf, allowing it to establish more easily.
• The soil remains warm enough to encourage strong root growth, making your turf more resilient as winter approaches.
• You’ll save time on mowing and watering as the cooler weather slows down grass growth, reducing maintenance compared to summer.

By laying turf in autumn, you’re giving your lawn the best chance to thrive while also saving on water and effort.

Choosing the Best Turf Varieties for Autumn Installation

When laying a new lawn in autumn, choosing varieties that can establish strong roots before winter is essential. Some turf varieties are better suited for the cooler months, providing durability, shade tolerance, and low-maintenance benefits, perfect for a low-maintenance feature lawn. To find the perfect lawn for you give us a call on 9730 1128.

How to Lay Turf in Autumn

Laying turf in autumn requires careful steps to ensure your new lawn establishes strong roots before winter. Follow this step-by-step guide for the best results:

Step 1: Prepare the Soil

• Start by removing dead grass, weeds, and debris from the area.
• Level the ground to create a smooth surface for your new turf, ensuring proper contact between the soil and the roots.

Step 2: Lay the Turf

• Lay instant turf tightly edge to edge, aligning the seams to avoid gaps.
• Stagger the turf pieces in a brick-like pattern to promote even growth and prevent lines from forming.

Step 3: Water the Turf

• After installing the turf, water it thoroughly to ensure the moisture reaches the deep root system to promote healthy growth.
• Continue watering daily for the three week, then gradually reduce the frequency.

Step 4: Avoid Walking on the Turf

• To allow the newly laid turf to be established properly, minimise foot traffic on the newly laid turf for the first few weeks.

Turf Quality and Special Treatments in Autumn

At Lilydale Instant Lawn, maintaining top-quality turf is a priority, even during the cooler months. The treatments applied to ensure a healthy lawn include frost blankets and ColourGuard Plus applications, helping the turf stay in top condition through autumn and into winter.

Frost blankets  

Frost blankets shield turf from potential frost damage. By covering the turf during cold nights, they help maintain an optimal temperature for root growth and prevent damage to the leaf blades.

ColourGuard Plus applications  

ColourGuard Plus is a treatment applied to turf during autumn to enhance its appearance and functionality. This application darkens the turf's leaf blades, allowing it to absorb more heat from the sun. The extra warmth keeps the grass looking greener for longer and helps prevent frost damage, and delays the effects of winter dormancy.

These treatments ensure that your instant turf stays in top condition, even as the weather cools, giving your lawn the best chance to thrive throughout autumn and into winter.

Common Questions About Laying Turf in Autumn

Here are answers to some of the most common questions about laying turf in autumn:

What is the latest month to lay turf?

It’s best to lay turf by mid-autumn to give it enough time to establish a deep root system before the cooler winter months. Laying turf too late in autumn may not allow the roots to develop enough time before the cold weather sets in.

How long does turf take to root in autumn?

Depending on weather conditions, turf generally takes 2-4 weeks to develop a firmly rooted system. Proper watering and limiting foot traffic during this period will ensure the best results.

For instant turf installation that guarantees a healthy lawn, contact Lilydale Instant Lawn and explore the wide range of top-quality turf varieties available to suit your needs.