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How to lay turf for a lush, green lawn

The image shows a freshly laid turf, with outdoor furniture set up on a paved area in the background.

Overview

A lush, green lawn can completely transform your outdoor space. Whether you're refreshing your existing lawn or starting from scratch, laying turf is a great way to get instant results. Follow this step-by-step guide on how to install turf to ensure your new lawn is healthy and long-lasting.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

1

Measure the lawn area

Start by measuring the length and width of your area to calculate the total square metres. Turf is typically sold in rolls or slabs that cover a set area, so divide your total area by the size of the turf to work out how many you’ll need. It’s always a good idea to round up slightly to allow for trimming and adjustments.
A person in a red shirt is measuring a garden area with a tape measure, preparing the ground for turf installation.

2

Prepare the area for laying turf

Before laying grass your turf, clear the space of any debris, existing turf, or weeds. You want a clean slate, so use a rake or soil spreader to loosen the top layer of soil and level it out. To create an even surface, you may need to add a fresh layer of lawn soil (about 30-50mm thick) to help level the area.
A person is using a rake to loosen the top layer of soil and leveling it, preparing the ground for turf installation. ]

3

Spread lawn soil across the turfing area

A healthy lawn starts with good soil, so preparing the ground properly will give your turf the best chance to thrive. Spread a layer of lawn soil conditioner evenly over the area to improve the soil structure, enhance drainage, and provide essential nutrients. This step is particularly important if your soil is compacted, sandy, or clay-heavy, as it helps create a looser, more fertile base for the turf to establish strong roots. Using a rake or soil spreader, work the conditioner into the top layer of soil to ensure an even distribution.
A Bunnings Team Member is spreading lawn soil from a bag onto the ground to help the turf grow strong and healthy.

4

Add lawn starter fertiliser before laying turf

To encourage strong root development, apply a lawn starter fertiliser evenly across the prepared soil. Using a rake or soil spreader, lightly compact the surface to create a firm base. A smooth, level surface will help prevent bumps from showing through the turf.
A person in a red shirt is using a handheld spreader to evenly apply a lawn starter fertiliser over the soil.

5

Position the first row of turf

Start by placing the first roll or slab of turf along a straight edge, such as a fence line or pathway, and unroll it carefully. Lay each piece tightly against the last, ensuring the edges meet snugly without overlapping. This first row will act as a guide for the rest of the lawn, so take your time to position it correctly.
A Bunnings Team Member is laying down the first roll or slab of turf on prepared soil in a garden.

6

Trim the turf to size

As you continue laying the turf, you may come across areas that require smaller pieces, such as corners, edges, or around garden beds. Use garden shears for precise turf cutting and carefully trim the turf to size, ensuring each piece fits neatly without gaps. Cutting the turf as needed will help create a seamless, professional-looking finish.
A person is cutting the edge of freshly laid turf using garden shears to fit it neatly along the border.

7

Lay turf in a staggered pattern

Once the first row is in place and any necessary cuts have been made, lay the remaining turf in a staggered pattern, similar to brickwork. This helps to minimise gaps between the pieces and creates a more natural-looking lawn. Avoid aligning the seams in straight lines, as this can make the joins more noticeable. When all the turf is down, use a lawn roller or gently walk over the surface to help it settle and make good contact with the soil. This step is crucial for preventing air pockets and ensuring the turf establishes strong roots.
A person wearing gloves is carefully laying the remaining turf in a staggered pattern to fill a gap on a prepared patch of soil.

8

Press the turf firmly into place

Once all the turf is in place, use a lawn roller or gently walk over it to help it settle and make good contact with the soil. This step is crucial for preventing air pockets and ensuring the roots establish properly.
A person wearing work boots is gently walking on freshly laid turf to help it settle and make a good contact with the soil.

9

Water the turf and maintain healthy growth

Give the turf a deep watering to help it establish. For the first couple of weeks, water it twice a day (depending on your turf variety), especially in warm or windy conditions, to keep the roots moist as they grow into the soil. Once the turf is firmly established—typically in 2-3 weeks, but possibly longer in cooler months—you can start mowing your new lawn. With proper care and regular watering, your fresh turf will grow into a thriving, green lawn in no time.
A Bunnings Team Member is watering freshly laid turf in a garden using a hose.

10

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.