Newly Laid Turf Problems

Starting a new garden is an exciting adventure, and laying a new lawn can be one of the most transformative aspects. However, like all gardening endeavors, challenges can arise. Let’s delve into some common problems faced by gardeners with freshly laid turf and explore potential solutions.

1. Brown Patches:

After ensuring adequate watering, some gardeners may notice brown patches appearing on the lawn.

Possible Causes:

• In areas adjacent to brickwork structures, the bricks might absorb moisture, leading to drier conditions in these spots. This can be exacerbated if there’s less topsoil near the wall below the lawn level.
• Late evening watering coupled with humid nights might cause a fungal disease known as red thread.

Solutions:

• Watering is best done early in the morning to avoid the risks associated with late evening watering.
• Avoid watering during the sun’s peak hours, as this can potentially damage the roots.
• In the case of red thread, consider treatments or changes in watering habits. Learn more about red thread here.

2. Spongy Lawn in Shaded Areas:

Certain parts of a garden might receive less sunlight, causing the turf in those spots to feel spongy or damp for extended periods.

Possible Causes:

• These areas might retain more moisture due to reduced evaporation from shade.
• Moss growth might also contribute to the spongy feeling.

Solutions:

• A mix of topsoil and lawn-sand can create a drier layer over these shaded areas, allowing grass to knit together better over time. This process can be repeated after each mowing session.
• Using a garden fork, gently spike the turf to help water penetrate deeper.

3. Thatch Formation:

Newly laid lawns might sometimes give the appearance of having excessive thatch.

Solutions:

• Before considering interventions like scarifying, it’s essential to diagnose the issue correctly. If you peel back the grass and see a thick layer of organic debris on the soil’s surface, that’s likely thatch. However, scarifying, especially on a new lawn, can be harsh and may not be necessary in the early stages.
• Regular mowing and proper watering can mitigate many early-stage thatch issues.

4. Bumps and Hollows:

It’s not uncommon for a freshly laid lawn to have small bumps or hollows, even after meticulous leveling of the topsoil.

Solutions:

• Regularly applying a mix of topsoil and lawn-sand can gradually level out minor imperfections.
• While rolling the lawn might seem like an obvious solution, it has its pros and cons. Over time, frequent rolling might compact the soil, which can be detrimental. It’s best to roll only when necessary and avoid making it a regular practice.

In Conclusion:

Laying a new lawn, especially during summer, can be challenging, but the rewards of a lush, green space are worth the effort. Patience is key. With time and a little expertise, most common issues can be addressed, leading to a beautiful and thriving lawn. As with all gardening practices, sometimes it’s about working with nature and understanding the unique needs of your space rather than battling against it.