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Complete any other gardening
If you haven’t done this already, you’ll need to make sure you have completed any other gardening, such as retaining walls, edges or paths.
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Clear the ground
Remove any existing turf and spray with weed killer at least 14 days before your new turf arrives. Also be sure to remove any dead grass, and weeds, along with any rocks, stick or solid materials in the soil.
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Soil analysis & pH test
Analyse your soil and conduct a pH level test to ensure the solubility of the minerals and nutrient that are essential for the growth, health and longevity of your lawn. Your lawns pH level is easy to do. All you need is a pH testing kit, which you can find at any hardware store or plant nursery. The ideal pH range for your lawn is somewhere between 6 – 7.5. So, once you have purchased a pH test, use the following steps to check your lawns pH levels.
1. Get a few samples from around the yard and mix together for an accurate reading.
2. Add some pH dye from the soil testing kit (the kit will give you the exact quantity required).
3. Mix the soil and dye into a paste, then dust with the white testing powder provided.
4. Wait for your results. Your sample will turn a colour, which you can then match with the colour chart received with the testing kit to give you the pH level of your lawn.
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Soil improvement works
If your soil needs any added nutrients, now is the time to address this and rectify any problems. There are several materials and products that can help to improve, and keep, your soil (and your lawn) in prime condition. By understanding what your soil needs and addressing any concerns or improvement works during your pre-installation preparation, your turf will have the best growth environment possible. Certain products which can help, depending on the condition of your soil, are:
1. Fertiliser – A soil-conditioning fertiliser provides essential nutrients and promote healthy and strong root system growth for your lawn. The GoTurf Pro Liquid Fertiliser has unique microbial nutrients that will give your lawn the best possible start. You can find it here.
2. Lime – Helps raise the pH level and neutralise any acidity in the soil.
3. Wetting agents – These attract water to soil and lawn to help it to be absorbed, rather than run off and/or evaporate before effectively soaking the soil.
4. Water storage crystals – Absorb and store water, keeping it available to the root system.
5. Gypsum – Also known as Calcium sulphate, Gypsum helps to break down clay type soils.
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Drainage & levels
Make sure your soil has adequate draining and levelling.