Can I Lay Turf In Autumn?
While spring and summer might seem like the go-to seasons for installing a fresh new lawn, autumn is actually a great time of year to get the job done. The combination of warm soil, cooler air temperatures, reduced evaporation rates and less competition from weeds create the perfect conditions for your new turf to establish strong roots before winter hits.
So if you’re thinking about giving your outdoor space a lush new look, here’s why autumn is the perfect season to do it.
Why Autumn is an Ideal Time for Laying Turf
Autumn provides the ideal balance of warm soil temperatures and mild air temperatures, helping your turf take root quickly without the stress of extreme heat. Unlike the peak of summer, where water demands are high, or in winter, where growth can slow down, autumn strikes the perfect middle ground for establishing a thriving lawn.
- Warm Soil, Happy Roots – Even as the air starts to cool down, the soil remains warm enough for strong root development.
- Less Watering Required – With cooler days, your new lawn won’t need as much watering as it would in the height of summer.
- Reduced Weeds – Many common lawn weeds are less aggressive in autumn, giving your turf a better chance to take hold without as much interference.
- Stronger Growth Before Winter – Laying turf in autumn gives it enough time to establish before winter dormancy, meaning when spring rolls around, it’s ready to take off.
Choosing the Right Turf for Autumn Laying
At Coolabah Turf, we only sell slab-cut instant turf, which means it has a fully established root system from the get-go, making it quick and easy to establish. But not all turf varieties grow at the same rate, and some handle cooler conditions better than others.
If you’re laying turf in autumn, consider these standout performers:
- Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo – A robust all-rounder with excellent drought tolerance and shade adaptability.
- TifTuf Bermuda – If you’re after a hard-wearing, high-performance lawn, this one establishes quickly and stays green longer into winter.
- Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu – A great option for high-traffic areas, with rapid growth and self-repairing qualities.
How to Lay Turf in Autumn
Laying turf in autumn follows the same principles as any other time of the year, but there are a few things you can do to give it the best start possible.
1. Prep Your Site Properly
A well-prepared surface is key to long-term lawn success.
- Remove any weeds, rocks or debris.
- Level the soil and ensure proper drainage.
- Apply a quality underlay soil mix to provide nutrients and encourage strong root growth.
2. Order and Lay Your Turf Promptly
- Always order your turf delivery for the day you plan to lay it.
- Lay turf slabs immediately to prevent them from drying out.
- Stagger the joins in a brick-like pattern to reduce gaps and improve stability.
3. Water Wisely
- Water your new turf immediately after installation.
- For the first two weeks, keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- As the roots establish, gradually reduce watering frequency while increasing the depth of each soak.
4. Mow with Care
- Hold off on the first mow until the turf has fully rooted into the soil (usually around 3-4 weeks after laying).
- Keep the mower height high for the first few cuts to avoid stressing the new grass.
5. Feed for Strong Growth
- Apply a slow-release starter fertiliser when laying your turf to promote root development.
- As the season progresses, a balanced fertiliser can help prepare your lawn for winter resilience.
Ongoing Care Through Autumn and Winter
Once your new lawn is established, keeping it in top shape through the colder months is all about maintenance.
- Monitor moisture levels – While autumn brings cooler weather and the hope of rainfall, ensure your turf doesn’t dry out, particularly if there’s a warm spell.
- Stay on top of weeds – Fewer weeds germinate in autumn, but if any pop up, tackle them early to prevent them from taking over.
- Avoid heavy traffic – If possible, keep foot traffic to a minimum while the lawn is still establishing.
Autumn Laying - Our Verdict
If you’re ready to transform your back or front yard, autumn is a prime time to do it. With the right turf variety, and a bit of preparation and proper care, your lawn will be well on its way to becoming the envy of the street by the time spring rolls around.
And remember, when you choose Coolabah Turf, you’re getting top-quality, farm-fresh, slab-cut turf that makes establishment easier and ensures long-term success. Get in touch with our team of turf experts today and let’s make your lawn dreams a reality!
