Auckland homeowners frequently require landscaping solutions that are not only efficient and reliable but also specifically tailored to the city's unique climate. In recent years, one of the most popular choices to emerge is ready lawn, a pre-grown turf that offers instant green coverage and consistent results. Whether you're embarking on a new build, revamping your outdoor space, or replacing a worn-out lawn, ready lawn provides a hassle-free option that perfectly aligns with the pace and conditions of life in Auckland, allowing you to save time and be more productive.
What is Ready Lawn?
Ready lawn, sometimes called instant turf, is a fully grown grass layer that is harvested with its roots and a base layer of soil. It's transported in rolls or slabs and laid directly over a prepared area. Once installed, it begins to establish itself in the soil below, eventually becoming indistinguishable from a naturally grown lawn. The appeal lies in its immediacy—within a day, your garden transforms from bare earth to a lush green lawn.
Why Auckland Landscapers Prefer Ready Lawn
There are several reasons why a ready lawn is such a common choice in Auckland landscaping:
- Speed of establishment: Unlike seeded lawns that can take weeks to germinate, ready lawn provides instant impact.
- Weed suppression: It creates a dense cover that minimises the opportunity for weeds to take hold.
- Erosion control: Particularly useful on sloped Auckland sections, ready lawn helps hold soil in place during wet weather.
- With good soil preparation, a ready lawn requires only regular watering and basic care in the first few weeks, allowing you to relax and enjoy your new lawn without the stress of high maintenance.
Auckland's Climate and Lawn Success
Auckland's subtropical climate, characterised by warm, humid summers and mild, wet winters, is ideal for growing cool-season grasses such as ryegrass and fescue, which are commonly used in ready-to-lawn products. These varieties are not only resilient but also recover well from foot traffic and maintain their colour throughout much of the year. This resilience makes them a durable and visually appealing choice for your ready lawn.
Soil Preparation is Key
A successful ready lawn installation depends heavily on proper soil preparation. In Auckland's clay-heavy soils, it's often necessary to improve drainage by adding compost or sand and grading the site to prevent pooling. A soil test can help determine nutrient levels and pH, allowing for lime or fertiliser application before the lawn is laid. A smooth, firm base helps the turf root evenly and promotes long-term lawn health.
Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Lawn
After laying your ready lawn, the first three weeks are critical. Watering should be done daily (or twice daily in warm weather) to help the roots establish. Avoid mowing until the lawn is firmly rooted, typically after two to three weeks. Once established, mow regularly and feed with a slow-release fertiliser suited to the grass type and season.
Is Ready Lawn Right for You?
While ready lawn costs more upfront than hydroseeding or sowing grass seed, it provides near-instant results and requires less ongoing effort to achieve a full, green lawn. It's an ideal choice for homeowners who value time, consistency, and the visual appeal of a mature lawn from day one. In Auckland's competitive property market, it's also a wise choice for quickly boosting curb appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How much does a ready lawn cost in Auckland?
On average, a ready lawn in Auckland costs around $30–$40 per square metre, excluding preparation and installation. Prices can vary depending on the grass variety, site accessibility, and the amount of prep work required.
- How long before I can walk on a newly laid lawn?
It's best to wait 2–3 weeks before allowing regular foot traffic to resume. This allows the roots time to properly anchor into the soil.
- What type of grass is used in Auckland lawns?
The most ready lawn in Auckland is a blend of fine fescue and perennial ryegrass. These varieties perform well in the local climate, offering a good balance of durability and appearance.
- Can I install a ready lawn myself?
Yes, many DIYers successfully install ready-made lawns. However, for best results, especially on uneven or large sites, professional preparation and installation are recommended.
- Does a ready lawn require more water than seeded lawns?
Initially, yes. The newly established lawn requires frequent watering during the initial phase. Once settled, its water requirements are similar to seeded lawns and can be managed with seasonal adjustments.
