You’ve just laid your instant turf — congratulations! But while it looks amazing on day one, the next six weeks are critical for helping your lawn take root and thrive. If you skip proper care during this time, your turf may dry out, develop bare patches, or fail to establish.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to caring for your instant turf in the first six weeks.

Week 1–2: Daily Watering Is Essential

Freshly laid turf has very shallow roots, so it dries out quickly.

  • Water immediately after installation until the soil beneath is soaked to about 100mm deep.
  • For the first two weeks, water your lawn daily, ideally in the early morning.
  • On hot or windy days, you may need a second watering in the afternoon.
  • Avoid walking on the turf while it’s still soft and spongy.

Week 3–4: Reduce Frequency, Encourage Root Growth

By the third week, your turf should be starting to establish roots.

  • Check Rooting: Gently lift a corner — if you feel resistance, the roots are growing.
  • Adjust Watering: Reduce watering to every 2–3 days, but water more deeply. This trains roots to grow deeper into the soil.
  • Watch for Dry Spots: Areas near edges, paths, or slopes may dry out faster — give them extra attention.

Week 5–6: Mow and Feed Your Turf

At this stage, your lawn should be ready for its first mow and a light feed.

  • First Mow: When the grass blades reach about 6–8cm, mow using the highest setting on your mower. Never cut off more than one-third of the blade in a single mow.
  • Fertilising: Apply a slow-release lawn fertiliser to encourage strong root development and healthy growth. Water it in well after applying.
  • Traffic: By week six, your lawn can usually handle light foot traffic — but wait longer for sports, pets, or heavy use.

Ongoing Care Tips

  • Weed Control: Avoid using herbicides until your turf is fully established (usually after 3 months).
  • Keep Mowing Regularly: Frequent mowing encourages a dense, even lawn.
  • Seasonal Care: Adjust watering and feeding based on Melbourne’s changing seasons — more water in summer, less in winter.

Final Thoughts

Caring for your instant turf properly in the first six weeks makes all the difference between a patchy yard and a thriving, long-lasting lawn. With the right watering, mowing, and feeding schedule, your new turf will quickly establish and reward you with a lush, green lawn you can enjoy for years to come.