Advice
When is the best time to lay turf in Scotland?
The best months to lay turf in Fife, Dundee, Angus and Perthshire, how to water a new lawn, and when to first cut it.
Turf can be laid for most of the year in Scotland, but spring and autumn give it the easiest start.
Spring and autumn are best
From March to May and from September to early November the soil is warm and moist, so new turf roots quickly with little watering. These are the most popular months for new lawns.
Summer
Turf laid in summer roots well but needs watering every day in dry spells, often for two or three weeks. Miss a few days and the edges shrink and brown.
Winter
Turf can be laid in mild winter weather, but not on frozen or waterlogged ground. Rooting is slow until spring.
Looking after a new lawn
Keep off it for two to three weeks, water so the soil underneath stays damp, and give the first light cut once the turf has rooted and the grass is around 5-7cm tall.
- Water daily in dry weather
- Keep foot traffic off for 2-3 weeks
- First cut on a high setting
Need this doing?
We carry out new lawns and turfing across Fife, Dundee, Angus and Perthshire. See our turfing & new lawns page or call for a free, no-obligation quote.
Common questions
- Can turf be laid in winter in Scotland?
- Yes in mild spells, but not on frozen or waterlogged ground.
- How soon can I walk on new turf?
- Light use after about two to three weeks once it has rooted.
- Do you prepare the ground too?
- Yes — ground preparation is the most important part of the job and is included in every turfing quote.
Your garden, considered
Ready to shape a better outdoor space?
Tell us what you have in mind and request a free, no-obligation quote.