Decide whether the turf is worth saving
Reuse turf that is reasonably dense, well rooted and free from serious disease or persistent weeds. It is a good option when making a border, widening a path or moving lawn into a newly prepared area. Thin, badly compacted or weed-filled turf can carry the same problem to its new home.
- Avoid reusing turf that carries persistent weeds, visible disease or active pest damage
- Do not lift turf from frozen, saturated or drought-brittle ground
- Move only as much turf as can be relaid that day
- If you are changing the finished height substantially, use the turf only after the underlying soil level has been corrected
Prepare the receiving area first
The new position should be clear, level and firm before the first strip is lifted. Remove perennial weeds, loosen and level the soil, then firm it lightly so the finished turf will sit at the same level as surrounding ground. A turf roll can fail if it is left waiting while the destination is still being dug.
- Measure the destination and mark the first edge with a line
- Rake out stones and large clods
- Water dry soil lightly so it is damp, not muddy
- Check levels with a straightedge before bringing turf across
Lift turf in manageable strips
Mow shortly before the job, then use a sharp spade or turf cutter to make even strips. Cut just beneath the main root mat, keeping enough soil attached for the turf to hold together without making each roll too heavy. Work from boards if the surrounding soil is soft, rather than repeatedly standing on prepared ground.
- Aim for pieces you can carry without stretching or tearing them
- Keep strip widths consistent so joints are easy to close later
- Roll strips loosely with the grass on the outside if they need moving
- Do not stack heavy rolls on top of one another
Keep the roots damp and the turf cool
Turf is living plant material. Keep it out of direct sun and wind, and do not let the soil side dry out. In warm weather, cover short-term stacks loosely with damp hessian or a breathable sheet; plastic can trap heat and cause damage.
- Lay it again promptly—ideally the same day
- Keep roots damp and the turf cool while moving it
- Never leave rolled turf in a hot car, trailer or sealed bag
- If a delay is unavoidable, unroll it in shade and lightly water the soil side
Lay it again promptly
Start against a straight edge and stagger the joints like brickwork. Butt each piece closely without stretching it, then trim edges with a sharp spade. Firm with the back of a rake or light footsteps so roots touch the soil, and water thoroughly through the turf into the ground below.
- Keep newly laid turf moist until it resists being lifted
- Avoid walking on it except for essential watering and checking
- Make the first cut only after it has rooted and growth resumes
- Patch gaps with small pieces only after larger pieces are placed