Put a ‘Spring’ in your step with the right lawn for your lifestyle Choosing the right lawn for your lifestyle is no easy task. With so many options available for building a lawn it can be overwhelming trying to decide which will be the right fit for your lifestyle.
Regardless of the option you go with, it is important to ensure that preparation for all lawn types is done correctly and to a high standard. Success lies in this preparation; do it right the first time and your time and effort will be rewarded with a healthy lawn that looks amazing for years to come.
Hand sown Hand sowing is an excellent choice for small areas and those who have time to nurture the lawn through its initial growing stages. Spring and autumn are generally considered the optimum time to sow grass seed because soil temperatures are not too cold, and the soil moisture levels are not too low. It is still possible to sow lawn seed in winter and summer, just be aware of frosts in winter and drought in summer.
The type of grass seed you select will be governed by how the lawn will be used. For a busy backyard with kids and pets, choose a rye mix; it is hardwearing and slow growing. If you are after a showpiece then select a fescue/brown top mix for a lush, fast-growing lawn.
Germination can vary from 5 days up to 30 days in optimal weather conditions. If the weather is cooler you can expect it to take longer. It will be safe to walk on your hand-sown lawn after 6-8 weeks, when watering requirements slow down.
Hydro seed This is one of the most popular ways of installing a new lawn, being both cost effective and relatively quick growing. Hydroseeding is the process of spraying on a mixture of water, seed, fertiliser and mulch. This means your lawn will have a kick start with nutrients and moisture to get it growing. Hydroseeded lawns will generally start to germinate in around 5-7 days. You will begin to see the lawn fill out after 3-4 weeks, at which point it will be safe to start walking on it, and by 8 weeks it will be a well-developed lush lawn. In cooler weather these times may be longer.
Like hand-sown lawns, the best time to hydroseed is in autumn or spring. In summer, hydroseeding is most definitely still possible but you need to be aware of the ongoing requirements to keep the ground moist.
The seed used in the hydro seed will change dependent on the season. Check in with the supplier as to what seed has been used so you can match seed for any future repairs.
Instant Lawn If you are after an immediate showpiece, then instant lawn should be considered. It is one of the more costly options for building a lawn; however, there is no denying the instant visual impact it will have on your property. Another bonus is that your new instant lawn will come weed free. It will have been thoroughly treated for weeds, pests, and diseases and should have no problems while getting established.
You will need to keep off the lawn completely for around two weeks, until the roots begin to take hold and the lawn begins to feel firm. Instant lawn can be installed year-round; however, keep an eye on water requirements depending on the season.
Artificial Artificial lawn has grown in popularity in recent times as the products hitting the market have become more realistic. Advanced fibre development means that artificial turf has the look and feel of natural grass, making it increasingly difficult to tell the difference between artificial lawn and the real thing. Pros for artificial lawn include no watering and no mowing; however, if you have animals then cleaning will be required. It looks great all year round, not wet and muddy in winter and not dead and parched in summer. Artificial lawns are, however, significantly more expensive to install when compared with hand sowing, hydro seeding, or instant lawn. The costs to the environment must also be considered with regard to its production, the materials used and eventually when its lifespan is complete, and it goes to landfill. Manufacturers stand by the quality of their products with warranties generally ranging between 7 to 10 years. Depending on the volume of traffic and how well it is cared for, you can expect your artificial lawn to have a lifespan of around 20-25 years.
Things to consider with lawn selections
For your free measure and quote or to discuss lawn options further flick our Christchurch based Landscape team an email at admin@Oderingslandscaping.co.nz
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