Cleveland Turf Supplies - Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Which variety is best?

A1. Unfortunately, there is no "best" variety. Each variety has individual characteristics and maintenance procedures. It is important to understand these differences and select the turf variety that best suits your situation.

Q2. Is there a minimum order?

A2. Yes 40m2 for delivery (subject to locality).

Q3. Do I need to order my turf?

A3. Yes. Turf is a perishable item with an extremely short shelf life. Therefore, we only harvest to order. One to two days notice is normally required to fulfill orders and coordinate deliveries.

Q4. When is the best time of year to lay turf?

A4. Turf can be laid all year round. Turf reestablishes quickly (10-14 days) during the heat of the summer months - when the soil temperature is high. However the water requirement and the associated time involved with watering at this time of year is extremely high. Turf installed during the cooler months will take longer to establish (four weeks) but water requirements are much lower.

Q5. How is my turf delivered?

A5. The majority of our turf is delivered on pallets with the aid of an all-terrain forklift. This enables the turf to be placed exactly where it is needed. We are currently working on a palletless system which will eliminate the problem of messy pallets being left on site.

Q6. What do I do with my turf upon receiving it?

A6. Turf should be installed immediately upon delivery. Site preparation works should be completed preferably the day before delivery of turf. The larger the order, the more labour should be on hand to ensure the turf is installed quickly but carefully.

Q7. If for some reason I can't lay my turf straight away, what should I do with it?

A7. Immediately upon receiving

- Store pallets in the shade
- Remove plastic wrap from around pallets
- Remove half the turf off the pallets, allowing the heat to escape from the centre of pallet.
- Lightly water the turf to prevent drying and to keep cool. (This may need to be repeated)
- Install as soon as possible
This process should allow the turf to hold for 24-36 hours. Slightly longer in cooler months. Different varieties have different holding capabilities.

Q8. When should I start watering my turf?

A8. Watering should commence as soon as an area has been laid which is large enough to place a sprinkler on. Ensure that the sprinkler is not watering areas yet to be laid. Note: The soil may need to be lightly watered before laying due to heat in the ground which may cause set back in the new turf, this is particularly important during the hotter part of the year when laying during the heat of the day.

Q9. Do I have to roll my new lawn?

A9. Yes. Rolling the lawn (in two directions) presses the new turf firmly into the soil bed and helps to expel air from under the new turf. This promotes root growth. Note: rolling will not rectify unevenness in the base due to poor preparation.

Q10. How do I know if I have lawn grubs?

A10. See our detailed section on grubs under "pests".

Q11. What is the cost of turf?

A11. The old adage "you only get what you pay for" seems to be particularly pertinent to turf prices. Unfortunately with turf, there are no industry standards which means that the quality becomes a "personal valuation" of the grower. It is quite possible to have a grower classing his product as "a" grade, while another grower would classify the same turf as "b" or "c" grade. All this means that the buyer, if he wants quality Turf, should check carefully and ask many questions before selecting the type of turf and the grower he wishes to purchase through. Always remember - quality turf is better value.