How to Care for Your New Turfed Lawn in Chichester & West Sussex

Written By Bradley Firth

A local aftercare guide for a healthy, long-lasting lawn

A newly turfed lawn can completely transform your garden — but the first few weeks are crucial. With the soil types and coastal weather we experience across Chichester and the surrounding villages, correct aftercare makes the difference between a lawn that thrives and one that struggles.

This guide explains exactly how to care for your new lawn in West Sussex, so it establishes properly and looks great for years to come.

Why New Turf Aftercare Matters (Especially Locally)

Fresh turf hasn’t rooted into the soil yet. Until it does, it depends entirely on watering, protection, and timing.

In the Chichester area, common challenges include:

  • Free-draining or sandy soils

  • Coastal winds that dry turf quickly

  • Periods of heavy rain followed by dry spells

Without proper care, new lawns can dry out, shrink at the edges, or establish weak roots.

Watering Your New Lawn (The Key to Success)

First 2 Weeks: Keep It Consistently Moist

For the first 10–14 days after turf is laid:

  • Water once or twice daily

  • Early morning and early evening are best

  • The soil beneath the turf should be damp, not just the surface

💡 Local tip: In warmer, windy weather common along the coast, turf can dry out faster — especially around edges.

After 2 Weeks: Water Less Often, but More Deeply

Once roots begin to establish:

  • Reduce watering to 2–3 times per week

  • Water thoroughly to encourage deeper root growth

Always adjust watering based on weather conditions.

When Can You Walk on a Newly Turfed Lawn?

Try to avoid foot traffic for at least 2–3 weeks.

  • Light walking after 2 weeks is usually fine

  • Avoid garden furniture, trampolines, or heavy use

  • If the turf still moves underfoot, it’s not ready

Most lawns in West Sussex take 3–6 weeks to root properly.

When to Mow a New Lawn

Mowing too early can pull turf up before it’s rooted.

First Cut Guidelines:

  • Wait until grass reaches 50–70mm

  • Make sure turf feels firm

  • Use a sharp mower blade

  • Remove no more than one-third of the grass height

Set your mower high for the first few cuts and lower gradually.

Weed Control in New Lawns

It’s normal to see a few weeds appear in a new lawn.

🚫 Avoid weed killer for the first 6–8 weeks

Early chemical treatment can damage young grass. Regular mowing usually controls most weeds naturally.

Seasonal Lawn Care in Chichester & Surrounding Areas

Spring & Summer

  • Increase watering during dry spells

  • Mow regularly but not too short

  • Watch edges for drying, especially in exposed gardens

Autumn

  • Reduce mowing frequency

  • Clear leaves promptly

  • Avoid waterlogged conditions

Winter

  • Avoid walking on frozen or saturated turf

  • No feeding

  • Mow only if conditions are mild

Common New Turf Problems (And Solutions)

Yellow patches
Usually caused by insufficient watering or compacted soil.

Shrinking gaps between rolls
Edges drying out — increase watering, especially in warm weather.

Uneven growth
Normal in early stages and evens out as roots establish.

How Long Until a New Lawn Is Fully Established?

Typically:

  • Light use after 3–4 weeks

  • Fully established after 6–8 weeks

At this point, your lawn can be treated like a mature one with normal mowing and feeding routines.

Professional Turfing & Lawn Care in Chichester

Correct ground preparation and professional installation make a huge difference to how well a lawn performs long-term — particularly in the varied soil conditions found across West Sussex.

If you’re planning a new lawn or want advice on turfing, preparation, or aftercare, working with a local contractor ensures your lawn is built to last. Visit our Lawn Installation service page to find out more.

Bradley Firth