Lawn care
There is nothing quite like wandering barefoot across your backyard savouring the feeling of grass between your toes.
A lush, green lawn really sets off a house and is the pride and joy of any keen gardener.
A successful lawn can take some effort, but provides very rewarding results making you the envy of the neighbourhood. Knowledge and quality products are key to lawn care, to ensure a beautiful, healthy lawn that leaves you with minimal maintenance later down the track.
Preparation
Autumn and spring are the best times to sow a lawn and to carry out lawn care.
For optimal lawn success, it's essential to prepare the soil to provide the best conditions for lawn seed germination. When establishing a new lawn, eliminate existing grass and weeds by spraying the area. Similarly, when patching your lawn, use a weed spray to remove unwanted grass and weeds, then clear the area once they have browned off.
Apply a 25-30mm layer of Lawn Preparation Mix to the area to provide lawn seed with a base of essential nutrients and fertiliser.
Create a level and compact area for your lawn by raking, rolling and filling in where needed.
Don’t forget to water before sowing lawn seed.
Planting lawn seed
Choose the type of lawn seed you would like to use, such as all purpose, easygrow, super fine, shady places, hot and dry, hard waring etc. If you decide on a fast growing seed you can see results in as little as seven days under ideal growing conditions.
Sow seed on a fine day at the rate set out on the packaging. Scatter seed in an east to west direction then a north to south direction to ensure an even spread.
Rake in lightly to ensure seed is covered.
Water lightly and keep moist on a daily basis during the germination period. Try to avoid making puddles with the water as this can move the lawn seed around.
Don’t be tempted to mow your new lawn straight away – wait until it has grown to at least 5cm so the root system has had time to develop.
Nourish your lawn
Your lush new lawn will need to be cared for throughout the year. A thick, healthy lawn stops broadleaf and other weeds from becoming established.
Apply a slow release fertiliser to encourage lush, thick, green growth in your lawn. Once established, fertilise your lawn in spring and autumn
Keep your lawn well watered. Well watered, well nourished lawns will have a better chance of keeping weeds, pest insects and diseases at bay.
Extra Tips!
Add SaturAid Granular Soil Wetter to assist with water distribution before sowing lawn seed.
When mowing your new lawn use sharp blades and set your mower to the highest level, gradually lowering the level over the next three months until you reach the optimum height of 2.5cm–3cm.
