Turf Care & Maintenance

MOWING

Mowing is extremely important in any good turf maintenance program. Mowing needs to change with the seasons, weather, nutrients and many other factors. One rule to follow is never mow more than a third of the leaf at any one time. Grass plants have a growing point where all of the leaves originate. When grass is mowed frequently; that growing point is close to the ground. If grass is allowed to grow too long, the growing point moves up away from the ground. A close mowing at that point will cut off the growing point as well the grass blades.

If your lawn has not been maintained for a period of time, set your mower height for the first mowing, then gradually lower it back down to optimal mowing height. Frequent mowing at the optimal mowing height for your lawn, will insure that you aren’t removing too much of the leaf blade and you should be on your way to a lush, healthy lawn without scalping. Your grass should be cut according to the type of lawn. Mow couch between 5mm-30mm height and buffaloes between 30-50 mm .Do not mow if hot weather is expected and avoid cutting the lawn shorter than height required. Always ensure your mower blades are Sharp.

WATERING

Irrigation is a process of adding supplement water when rainfall is insufficient to meet the needs of the plant .In dry regions; irrigation is necessary for turf survival. Limited water supplies across the country have placed a new emphasis on the responsible use of water, when water shortages occur. Lawn irrigation often is one of the first uses to be limited. Water only when your lawn needs it. How often you water your lawn will depend on the weather, the type of the lawn and the soil conditions. Sometimes your lawn will change colour, fold its leaves and look greyish in colour, this is an indication that it may need watering.

The lawn should be partly died out between watering, this lets air to the root system, stimulates deeper root formation and creates a more drought resistant lawn. Winter watering is generally reduced somewhat, unless it is an abnormally dry season.

During warmer months, a good deep watering once to twice a week will be sufficient. Place a container near the perimeter on your lawn to be watered. When the water in the container is 10 -15 mm deep, your lawn has had enough water, this can also be tested by a soil moister metre or simply use a long screwdriver or spade.

To minimise water wastage, test wetting depth of your lawn after watering and only continue watering to wet the full root depth.

Contact your supplier for watering guidelines for the establishment of a new lawn or an existing lawn.

BEFORE WATERING YOUR LAWN PLEASE CHECK IF WATER RESTRICTIONS ARE IN PLACE WITH YOUR LOCAL WATER AUTHORITY.

FERTILISER

Fertilising is a process of adding a natural supplement when soil structure is inadequate, to maintain a living plant and to assist in a healthy living lawn in applying fertiliser. Fertiliser should be well balanced and used to manufacturers specifications, [usually between 4 - 12 weeks]. Apply fertiliser regularly all year round and prior to cooler seasons and water restriction periods to maintain optimum appearance, also to assist in damage recovery. Always ensure that you fertilise well in autumn, as the healthier the lawn leading into winter, the better the growth and performance. When using fertilisers regularly, a soil analysis should be taken. To ensure that all major trace elements remain at correct levels. There are specially formulated professional blend fertilisers that contain Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium. You can purchase both from your local supplier or nursery.

OLDER LAWNS

Older lawns with compacted soil will benefit from aeration to allow oxygen and fertilisers to penetrate deeply. This is best done from early spring to end of summer with a pitchfork or you can hire an aerator from your local machinery hire outlet. Be aware of any underground services or irrigation pipes. Thatch is the organic cushion that builds up above the soil level. De thatching is required periodically in older lawns to promote deeper root growth and allow water penetration. De-thatching machines can be hired from your local machinery hire outlets. Always water lawn well after applying fertilisers. Fertiliser and chemical application will depend on climate, lawn type, soil types, insects, weeds and disease conditions for fertilising and maintence requirements in your area, consult your local nursery supplier. When using fertiliser or chemicals caution should always be used. Always use to the manufacturers specifications. Remember local water restrictions may apply within your area. Refer to this infomation purely as a guide as every situation is unique.