6 Minute(s) read
How to look after new turf
Your guide to caring for new turf in Australia
Taking care of your new turf is essential to ensure it grows strong and healthy. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to look after new turf, including watering schedules, mowing tips, fertilising, and managing foot traffic. Whether you’re laying turf for the first time or replacing an old lawn, these tips will help you achieve a lush, green lawn.
For detailed steps on lawn establishment from the start, watch our YouTube video on new turf care!
Preparing and laying your new turf
Proper preparation is the key to a thriving lawn. Follow these steps to get started on the right foot:
- Prepare the soil properly: Make sure the ground is level, free of debris, and enriched with soil conditioners or fertilisers suited for your turf type to promote a healthy root system.
- Lay the turf correctly: Lay the turf in a brick pattern, ensuring that the edges are closely butted together to avoid gaps. For different turf options like Sir Walter Buffalo, TifTuf Bermuda, and Sir Grange Zoysia, make sure you select the best one suited to your climate and soil type for a drought-tolerant lawn.

Watering your new turf effectively
How often to water new grass and when to water new turf
Watering your new turf correctly is crucial for its success. Here’s how to keep it healthy:
- Initial watering: Water immediately after laying turf. This first soak should thoroughly wet the soil beneath the turf to encourage root growth and keep the soil moist. Always use a sprinkler or irrigation system to ensure even watering
- When to water new turf: Water early in the morning or late in the afternoon to reduce evaporation and give the turf time to absorb moisture.
- How often to water new grass: For the first 3 weeks, water daily to keep the turf consistently moist. After this period, gradually reduce the frequency while increasing the depth of watering.
How many minutes to water new turf
The duration of watering sessions will vary between every area. You want to the water to be penetrating the soil underneath the turf.
Mowing your new turf
When and how to mow new turf
Mowing plays a vital role in turf care, but timing is everything. Follow these tips:
- Timing the first mow: Certain varieties will need to be mown in the first 7-10 days of being laid in the warm season. Varieties such as TifTuf and Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu. Follow our mowing lawn guide for best practices on how to mow without damaging new grass.
- Mowing height: You never want to take more the 1/3 of the leaf off.
- Regular mowing schedule: After the first mow, continue to mow regularly but avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass blade height at a time to prevent stress on the new turf.
Fertilising your new turf
How to fertilise new turf for optimal growth
Fertilising helps your turf grow lush and strong. Here’s how to do it right:
- Initial fertilisation: Start with a light application of a balanced fertiliser about 6 weeks after laying the turf. This provides essential nutrients that support healthy growth and the development of a robust root system. For more specific tips, refer to our lawn fertilisation guide.
- Ongoing fertilisation: Fertilise every 8-12 weeks during the growing season to maintain turf health. Use a fertiliser specifically designed for newly laid lawns to avoid burning young grass.
- Choosing the right fertiliser: Select a fertiliser with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote root growth and overall turf health for a luscious lawn.
Managing foot traffic on new turf
How to protect your new turf from damage
New turf is sensitive and needs time to establish. Here’s how to minimise damage:
- Limit foot traffic: Keep pets and people off the newly laid lawn for the first few weeks to allow the roots to establish without disturbance.
- Creating pathways: If you need access across the lawn, temporarily lay down planks or boards to distribute weight and reduce pressure on the turf.
FAQs about how to care for new turf in Australia
How long before you can walk on new turf?
It’s best to wait at least 6 weeks, or until the turf has rooted firmly in the soil. This allows the roots to establish properly without being disturbed, ensuring a healthy and robust lawn.
What fertiliser should I use for new turf?
A balanced fertiliser with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium works best for promoting root growth and overall turf health. Using the right fertiliser helps your newly laid lawn establish quickly and thrive.
How can I tell if my new turf is getting enough water?
Lift a corner of the turf to check if the soil underneath is moist. If it’s dry, increase your watering time. Maintaining consistent moisture is key to successful lawn establishment, especially in the early stages.
How do I protect my new turf from extreme weather conditions?
New turf can be sensitive to extreme weather, such as heatwave or heavy rain. During extreme heat, water more frequently to keep the soil moist and avoid mowing too short. For heavy rains, ensure proper drainage to prevent water logging, which can damage the turf.
We’ll help you grow a new, strong and healthy lawn
Caring for your new turf properly will set the foundation for a beautiful, healthy lawn that lasts. By following these steps on how to look after new turf, including watering schedules, mowing tips, fertilisation, and managing foot traffic, you can ensure your turf establishes quickly and grows strong.
For more personalised advice on setting up your lawn, check out our comprehensive guide on establishing a new lawn, or explore our lawn care resources for ongoing maintenance tips. With the right care and attention, your brand-new lawn will thrive, transforming into a luscious lawn that becomes a lush, green feature of your home.