Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your garden and create a lush, green lawn to enjoy throughout the year. But when it comes to establishing a lawn, many homeowners find themselves torn between laying new turf or sowing grass seed. Both methods have their advantages and considerations.

Let's look at the key points to consider for each option to help you make an informed decision.

Advantages of Laying New Turf:

Instant Results  

One of the biggest advantages of laying turf is that you get instant results. You'll have a green lawn almost immediately, providing an instant transformation to your outdoor space.

Weed Control 

Turf often comes with fewer weeds compared to seeding. This is because turf is grown in controlled conditions, by experts in the field (pun intended). It is the turf growers’ job to minimise the chance of weed seeds being present.

Erosion Control  

Turf helps to stabilise the soil, preventing erosion, which can be particularly beneficial if you have sloped areas in your garden.

Advantages of Growing a Lawn from Seed:

Cost-Effective 

Seeding is generally more budget-friendly compared to laying turf. The cost of grass seed is significantly lower than turf, making it an attractive option for those on a tight budget.

Variety

Seeding offers a wide variety of grass types to choose from, allowing you to select species that are well-suited to your specific soil type, climate, and usage requirements.

Considerations of Laying New Turf:

Cost

Laying turf can be more expensive compared to sowing seeds. The cost includes not only the price of the turf itself but also the labour involved in installation.

Limited Variety

Turf options may be limited in terms of grass varieties compared to seeding. This could impact the suitability of the lawn for specific uses or conditions.

Establishment Period

While you get instant results with turf, it still requires careful watering and maintenance during the establishment period to ensure it roots well and establishes a healthy lawn.

Considerations of Growing a Lawn from Seed:

Time to Establishment

Unlike turf, growing a lawn from seed requires patience. It takes time for the seeds to germinate, establish roots, and grow into a full lawn. You may not see significant results for several weeks or even months.

Weed Competition

Seeded lawns are more susceptible to weed competition during the establishment phase. Proper weed control measures need to be implemented to ensure the grass seedlings can thrive.

Maintenance Requirements

Seeded lawns require consistent watering and maintenance during the establishment period to ensure successful germination and growth. This includes regular watering, protection from birds, and potential reseeding of bare patches.

Conclusion

Choosing between laying new turf and growing a lawn from seed depends on various factors, including budget, time constraints, desired outcomes, and maintenance capabilities. While turf offers instant results and easier weed control, seeding provides greater variety and customisation options at a lower cost.

We've noticed that most of our customers prefer turf because of its immediate results, which we consider a significant advantage. Our commitment lies in providing quality turf that boasts excellent roll-out quality, ensuring it looks fantastic the moment it's laid.

Whichever method you choose, proper preparation, maintenance, and care are essential to establishing a healthy, vibrant lawn that you can enjoy for years to come.