Answering Some Questions About a Roll-On Lawn

A roll-on lawn is a good choice for any yard that is suffering from dry, brown, patchy spots of grass, and for when you need a new lawn very quickly and don't want to wait for grass seed to take root. A roll-on lawn is not very difficult to install yourself, but it does need a bit of extra care and attention when first installed. Note a few questions you might have about a roll-on lawn and then discuss these with a supplier as needed:

Can they be installed at any time of the year?

During wintertime, even if there isn't snow on the ground, the ground may be very hard and won't let the roots of the lawn grow very easily. Otherwise, you can typically apply the roll-on lawn at any other time of the year, as long as you realize that the heat of summer means it may need extra watering once it's installed. Your supplier can tell you how to adjust the care of the roll-on lawn species you choose, depending on the weather of when it's installed.

How long before you can walk on or use the lawn?

This will depend on the species, as some are more hearty and stronger than others, and will also depend on how quickly the lawn adapts to your property's soil. It's usually recommended that you check a corner of the roll-on lawn periodically by trying to pull it up and monitoring how well the roots have taken hold in the soil; once you cannot pull up that corner of the lawn, then it's usually safe for walking.

What is involved in its installation?

Homeowners can usually install a roll-on lawn themselves if they till, rake, or otherwise loosen the soil first. The soil should also be moist and not dry or sandy; your supplier can tell you the best texture for the species of turf you choose. Also, be sure you order smaller rolls that are easier to manage, as each roll can become quite heavy if it's very long and wide. Shorter rolls may take more time to install over your entire property, but this will mean less physical labour and rolls that are easier to manage.

After unrolling a section of lawn, you will need a good pair of garden shears to cut the end and shape it around landscaping fixtures, trees, and the like. The lawn should also be put firmly in place, but you don't need to tamp it down or you may break the delicate blades.