Everything You Need to Know About Turf Installation in the UK

Q: How long before I can walk on my new turf?

You can walk on new turf after two to three weeks once roots have bonded with the soil.

Q: Can turf be installed in winter?

Yes, turf can be installed year-round in the UK as long as the soil is not frozen or waterlogged.

Q: Do you remove old turf or artificial grass?

Palm & Olive provides full site preparation, including removal of old turf or artificial grass before new installation.

Q: Which turf is best for shady UK gardens?

Shade-tolerant turf blends with fescue and ryegrass varieties are best for shaded UK gardens.

ahmad kurdi
Oct 23
5 min read

Turf indtallation in a uk garden by palm and olive

A lush, green lawn has always been at the heart of the British garden. From family backyards to elegant courtyards, real turf transforms outdoor spaces instantly—bringing freshness, colour, and life back to the landscape.If you’re planning a lawn replacement or new garden project, this guide from Palm & Olive covers everything you need to know about turf installation in the UK—from choosing the right turf type to installation costs, timing, and professional care tips.

Why Choose Real Turf Over Artificial Grass

Across the UK, many homeowners are switching back from plastic lawns to real turf—and for good reason.Unlike artificial grass, real turf:

Cools your garden naturally, reducing surface temperature by up to 10 °C on hot days.
Absorbs CO₂ and produces oxygen, improving local air quality.
Regenerates soil health and supports biodiversity.
Feels soft, safe, and chemical-free, perfect for families, pets, and barefoot summers.

At Palm & Olive, we believe nothing compares to the look and feel of a living lawn. It’s nature’s carpet—and when installed correctly, it lasts for years with minimal effort.

The UK Climate and What It Means for Turf

Turf installation in the UK benefits from a mild, wet climate, but every region behaves a little differently.

The South (London, Surrey, Kent): milder winters and moderate rainfall—ideal for year-round turfing.
The Midlands and North: more rain and heavier soils, requiring proper drainage before laying.
Coastal areas: salt-tolerant or drought-resistant turf may be best.

Because of these variations, choosing UK-grown turf is essential. It’s cultivated for British weather and adapts quickly to local conditions. That’s why Palm & Olive only works with premium British turf suppliers who harvest fresh rolls within 24 hours of installation.

Choosing the Right Turf Type for UK Gardens

Not all turf is the same. Here are the most common options for British gardens:

Family or Multi-Purpose Turf – durable, soft underfoot, great for kids and pets.
Luxury or Fine Lawn Turf – finer texture and colour, ideal for ornamental gardens.
Shade-Tolerant Turf – for gardens where fences or trees limit sunlight.
Hard-Wearing Sports Turf – resilient and perfect for high-traffic areas.

If you’re unsure which turf suits your garden, Palm & Olive’s turf installation experts can inspect your site and recommend the best variety for your soil, sunlight, and lifestyle.

Visit our dedicated service page to learn more: Turf Installation in London | Palm & Olive.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Lay Turf in the UK

If you’re considering DIY turf installation, here’s how the professionals at Palm & Olive approach every project for a flawless finish:

Site Preparation – Remove old grass, weeds, and debris. Level the soil and break up compacted ground.
Soil Improvement – Add organic topsoil or compost to enrich nutrients and improve drainage.
Levelling and Firming – Lightly roll or tread the soil for an even surface.
Turf Laying – Lay rolls tightly edge-to-edge in a brickwork pattern. Avoid gaps or overlaps.
Rolling and Watering – Press down gently to ensure good contact between turf and soil, then water thoroughly.
Aftercare – Water daily for the first two weeks and mow only once roots have established.

While many homeowners enjoy the process, hiring professionals like Palm & Olive ensures perfect levelling, seamless joints, and long-lasting results—usually completed in a single day.

Turf Installation Cost in the UK

Turf prices in the UK vary based on quality, soil preparation, and garden size. Here’s a general guide:

Turf Type	Supply Only	Full Installation
Standard Family Turf	£3.50 – £4.50 / m²	£10 – £15 / m²
Premium Grade Turf	£5.00 – £7.50 / m²	£15 – £22 / m²
Luxury Lawn or	£8.00 – £11.00 / m²	£20 – £30 / m²

These prices are for fresh, UK-grown turf. In London and the South East, installation may cost slightly more due to logistics, but the results—smooth, vibrant, ready-to-use lawns—are worth it.

For an accurate quote, contact Palm & Olive.

When Is the Best Time to Lay Turf in the UK?

The best time to install turf in the UK is spring (March–May) and autumn (September–October) when soil is moist and temperatures are mild.However, with proper watering and soil preparation, Palm & Olive installs turf successfully year-round, even during summer or mild winter spells.

The secret lies in soil hydration and professional timing—two things our team handles with precision.

Aftercare: Keeping Your Lawn Lush and Healthy

Once your turf is installed, it needs a little care to thrive.Here are Palm & Olive’s top aftercare tips:

Water daily for the first 14 days, especially early morning or evening.
Avoid walking on new turf until roots have bonded (usually two to three weeks).
First mowing once the grass reaches 5–7 cm—trim lightly to around 4 cm.
Fertilise after six weeks to strengthen roots and enhance colour.
Aerate annually and rake lightly to prevent thatch build-up.

Follow these steps and your lawn will stay dense, green, and healthy throughout the year.

Why Choose Palm & Olive for Turf Installation in the UK

At Palm & Olive, we’re more than landscapers—we’re horticultural specialists passionate about transforming dull patches into living, breathing gardens.

When you choose our turf installation service, you receive:

Premium UK-grown turf, harvested fresh for each project.
Professional ground preparation for lasting results.
Fast, clean installation, often completed in a single day.
Expert aftercare guidance for long-term success.
Nationwide service with a local touch, from London and Surrey to Hertfordshire and beyond.

We take pride in creating lawns that stay beautiful season after season, combining craftsmanship with sustainability.

Learn more at Palm & Olive’s Turf Installation Page.

Premium UK-grown turf installed in a uk garden by Palm and olive

Frequently Asked Questions

How long before I can walk on my new turf?Usually two to three weeks once roots have bonded with the soil.

Can turf be installed in winter?Yes, turf can be installed year-round as long as the ground is not frozen or waterlogged.

Do you remove old turf or artificial grass?Yes. Palm & Olive provides complete site preparation, including removal of old turf or artificial grass before installation.

Which turf is best for shady UK gardens?A shade-tolerant mix containing fescue and ryegrass varieties performs best.

How do I get a quote from Palm & Olive?Visit our Turf Installation page or

call +44 7481 102135 for a free consultation.

Final Thoughts

A well-installed lawn transforms your entire garden. It adds structure, comfort, and natural beauty to your home while increasing its value.Whether you’re replacing artificial grass or starting fresh, investing in real turf is one of the most rewarding upgrades you can make to your outdoor space.

With Palm & Olive, you’re not just buying turf—you’re choosing expertise, quality, and care that lasts for years.Start your transformation today and discover why homeowners across the UK trust Palm & Olive for their turf installation needs.