Mistakes that are hurting your lawn – Part 2

Daleys Turf has collated some of the most common mistakes that are being made in backyards across Queensland and our recommendations on how to fix them. We’ve covered mowing in Part 1 and here’s Part 2:

Water is essential to all life . . . too little water and we die, too much and we drown. The same is true of the grass in our lawns. Water makes up 70% to 80% of the weight of our lawn grasses and the clippings alone are nearly 90% water. While most people are concerned about not watering their lawns enough, the fact is, more lawns are damaged or destroyed by over-watering than under-watering.

Use water wisely and practice water conservation. To establish itself, newly installed turf has very important watering needs. Proper watering immediately after installation will ensure the turf gets established, and it will also have an impact on how well the lawn continues to flourish for years to come. Give your new lawn at least 2.5 cms of water within ½ hour of installation. Water daily, or more often, keeping turf moist until it is firmly rooted which typically takes about 2 weeks. Then less frequent and deeper watering should begin. The amount of water required for an established lawn will be determined by its overall health, beauty and ability to withstand use and drought. 2.5 cms a week is the standard water requirement for most lawns; however, this will vary between different turf species and locations. There will also be varying water requirements for seasonal changes and still more differences brought about because of different soil types.

Look at the weather forecast and your lawn to determine if it needs water. Grass in need of water will have a grey-blue look to it. Also, footprints will still be visible after a half hour or more on a lawn in need of water, while your footprints will completely disappear within minutes on a well-watered lawn. You can also use a soil probe, such as a screwdriver or large spike to determine how dry your lawn is. If the probe can be pushed into the soil easily, it’s probably still moist, but if it takes a lot of pressure to push in, it’s time to water. Remember too, just because your lawn turns brown during extremely dry periods doesn’t mean it is dying; grass will go dormant during such periods. Your lawn doesn’t have to be green to be healthy. Most grasses can survive 30-60 days of drought without substantial losses.

For more information on lawn care mistakes you might be making and how to avoid them just contact the team at Daleys Turf today – with you for the life of your lawn.