Garden News (UK)

A new lawn? Turf v seed

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Both options give you a super new lawn if you prepare properly and do the required after-care. It really all comes down to cost, time and species of grass. Garden centres and DIY stores have both to consider.

Turf it over

Let’s start with turf. It’s much more expensive than seeding. But it does give you an instant lawn that needs regular watering but little else as it establishe­s itself. However, turf offers less choice of grass type – but does this matter? Most turf has a lot of ryegrass (not a native plant) which is tough and great for wear and tear. But it can require more feeding and doesn’t fill out as much, which can lead to a thinner appearance.

Seed your lawn

Growing from seed gives you a greater choice of grasses, including ones tolerant of shade, ones to suit how you wish to maintain your lawn and, believe it or not, even grasses that can stay green during dry spells. Preparing a seed bed is no more arduous than preparing the ground for turf. And seed is a lot cheaper than turf! You just need to wait for it to germinate, and to look after the tender new shoots as they establish.

What will you try?

Studytudy your lawn area and learn a little about t the different types of grasses. Turf is great for smaller repairs of course, but there’s something magical about watching a beautiful new lawn being born from seed – tough choice! Spring is one of two times in the year when a lawn can be really

tinkered with and if that’s done correctly, the summer will all be about enjoying the fruits of your hard work. So rather than having to worry about giving your lawn a drink, you’ll be able to sit back and enjoy one yourself!

 ??  ?? In early spring, lay turf on rich, raked, level and well fertilised soil
In early spring, lay turf on rich, raked, level and well fertilised soil
 ??  ?? Use your newlyseede­d lawn as li le as possible in the first season In mid-spring sow lawn seed evenly over well-worked soil
Use your newlyseede­d lawn as li le as possible in the first season In mid-spring sow lawn seed evenly over well-worked soil

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