The Complete Guide to Grass Turf: Choosing, Laying, and Maintaining Your Lawn

There’s something truly special about a lush green lawn. In Australia, where outdoor living is part of our culture, a well-kept lawn often becomes the heart of the home—whether it’s a space for weekend barbecues, kids playing barefoot, or simply a place to unwind after a long day. At Ace Landscapes, we know the difference that quality grass turf can make to your home’s street appeal, comfort, and value.

But with so many options and factors to consider, finding the right turf and keeping it healthy can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand grass turf in Australia—from choosing the right type, to laying it properly, to maintaining it all year round.

Why Choose Grass Turf Over Seed?

When homeowners think about creating a new lawn, the first question is often: should I plant seed or roll out turf? While seeds may seem cheaper upfront, grass turf has a few big advantages:

Instant Lawn Appeal – Turf gives you an instant green lawn, whereas seed takes months to establish.

Less Risk of Weeds – Because turf is already cultivated, it’s less vulnerable to weed invasion during early growth.

Durability – Turf varieties are bred to handle Australian conditions, from full sun to high foot traffic.

Erosion Control – Turf stabilises soil immediately, making it perfect for sloped yards or erosion-prone areas.

For most families and businesses, turf is the practical choice when you want a ready-to-use lawn without the wait.

Choosing the Right Grass Turf for Australian Homes

Not all turf is created equal. The right variety depends on your lifestyle, soil type, and how much sun your garden receives. Here are some popular turf varieties we supply and recommend:

Buffalo Grass

A favourite in Sydney and across Australia, buffalo grass is hardy, soft underfoot, and excellent in shaded areas. Modern varieties like Sir Walter Buffalo are low-maintenance and hold their colour year-round.

Kikuyu Grass

If you need a tough, fast-growing turf for active families or pets, kikuyu is a great choice. It thrives in full sun and recovers quickly from wear and tear, though it does need regular mowing.

Couch Grass

Perfect for sports fields or sun-drenched yards, couch grass is fine-textured and dense. It loves the heat but requires a little more maintenance to stay looking its best.

Zoysia Grass

A relatively newer option, zoysia is slow-growing, drought-tolerant, and weed-resistant. It’s great for those who want a soft, manicured look with less mowing.

At Ace Landscapes, we help customers match the right turf to their property conditions, so you don’t end up with a lawn that struggles to survive.

Preparing Your Yard for Turf

Laying turf isn’t just about rolling it out—it’s about giving it the best foundation for long-term health. Proper preparation makes all the difference.

Clear the Area – Remove weeds, old grass, rocks, and debris.

Soil Testing – Test the soil pH and add conditioners if needed. Turf grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Soil Improvement – Add quality topsoil, compost, or organic matter to improve drainage and nutrient levels.

Levelling – Smooth the surface to avoid water pooling. Consider slight slopes to encourage runoff away from buildings.

Starter Fertiliser – Spread a turf starter fertiliser to encourage quick root growth.

How to Lay Grass Turf Like a Pro

Once your soil is ready, it’s time to lay the turf. Here’s how professionals do it:

Start Along a Straight Edge – Lay your first roll of turf along a driveway, fence, or straight boundary.
Stagger the Joints – Lay the next rows like bricks, staggering the seams to prevent water run-off.
Press the Turf Down Firmly – Ensure each roll is snug against the next to avoid gaps.
Cut to Fit – Use a sharp knife to trim turf around edges, pathways, or garden beds.
Water Immediately – Soak the turf as soon as it’s laid, ensuring the water penetrates the soil below.

For larger yards, consider using turf-laying equipment or hiring professionals to ensure even coverage.

Watering and Aftercare: The Critical First Weeks

The first 4–6 weeks after laying turf are the most important. During this time, your new lawn’s roots are establishing themselves.

Week 1-2: Water daily to keep the soil consistently moist.
Week 3-4: Reduce watering to every second day.
Week 5-6: Water twice a week, depending on rainfall.

After 6 weeks, your turf should be strong enough to handle light foot traffic.

Ongoing Lawn Care Tips

Once established, grass turf doesn’t need to be a burden. With a few simple habits, you’ll enjoy a healthy lawn year-round.

Mowing

Don’t cut more than one-third of the grass blade in a single mow. Regular mowing encourages denser growth and prevents weeds.

Fertilising

Apply a slow-release fertiliser three to four times a year—typically in early spring, mid-summer, and autumn.

Weed Control

Catch weeds early before they spread. Hand-pull or use a selective herbicide suited to your turf variety.

Aeration

Aerate your lawn once a year to improve water and nutrient absorption. This is especially important for high-traffic areas.

Pest and Disease Watch

Keep an eye out for armyworms, curl grubs, or fungal spots. Early treatment saves your turf from lasting damage.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping Soil Prep – Turf laid on poor soil won’t thrive.
Overwatering or Underwatering – Both can weaken roots. Stick to a schedule.
Cutting Too Short – Scalping your lawn stresses the grass and leaves it prone to weeds.
Using the Wrong Turf Variety – Shade-loving turf in full sun (or vice versa) will struggle.

Why Invest in Quality Turf from Ace Landscapes?

At Ace Landscapes, we’ve supplied grass turf to Sydney homes and businesses for years. Our customers choose us not just for the product, but for our knowledge and service:

Premium Turf Varieties – Sourced from trusted local growers.

Expert Advice – Tailored recommendations for your property.

Convenient Delivery – Straight to your home or project site.

Complete Landscaping Solutions – From turf to soil, mulch, and decorative pebbles, we’re your one-stop shop.

We understand that a great lawn is an investment, and our goal is to help you protect that investment.

The Bigger Picture: Turf and Australian Lifestyle

Grass turf isn’t just about looks—it’s about lifestyle. A healthy lawn reduces heat around your home, improves air quality, prevents soil erosion, and creates a safe space for kids and pets. In a city like Sydney, where outdoor spaces are highly valued, turf is one of the simplest ways to increase both liveability and property value.

A thriving lawn doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of choosing the right grass turf, preparing the ground properly, and committing to simple maintenance. Whether you’re starting from scratch or refreshing an old patch, turf offers instant beauty and long-term rewards.

At Ace Landscapes, we’re here to make the process easier, from helping you pick the perfect turf variety to delivering it straight to your door. With the right start and care, your lawn can be more than just grass—it can be a space for memories, relaxation, and pride in your home.

So, if you’re ready to transform your outdoor space, get in touch with Ace Landscapes today. Together, we’ll help you achieve the lush, green lawn you’ve always wanted.