SOIL PREPARATION
Basic site preparation is the same for seeding and turfing. Proper soil preparation lays the foundation for the lawn area in terms of appearance, surface smoothness for mowing, and drainage. Taking care of each aspect of preparation is important in order to avoid future problems. The site preparation for sports fields and golf courses is work for specialists and therefore we will limit ourselves to recommendations for lawns only. Good soil preparation for lawns consists of the following steps:

1. Weed control. Particularly difficult-to-control weed grasses such as couchgrass need to be controlled prior to seeding. Also aggressive growing, broad leaved weeds need to be controlled first.
2. Removal of stones, wood, etc. The top surface needs to be free of stones and wood and other debris, as these will cause problems with sowing and subsequent mowing.
3. Cultivation of soil. The soil needs to be cultivated to a depth of 20-25cm. This is particularly important on soils where heavy equipment has been used and especially under wet soil conditions.
4. Fertilization. Based on the soil test analyses, the appropriate amount and ratio of fertilizer (N.P.K.) needs to be incorporated into the upper 5-25cm of the soil.
5. Leveling off. Complete the final grade with leveling equipment. Drag combinations, handled by an experienced operator and helped with laser equipment are excellent on larger areas. On small areas, hand raking is sufficient, combined with some hand pulled drag.
6. Final soil preparation. Lightly till, roll and level the soil surface. Use a roller and garden rake on very small areas or a cultipacker and tiller-rake-drag combination on large areas. This work needs to be done just prior to seeding or turfing to ensure a moist seed bed and enhance the establishment rate.

LAWNS: MAINTENANCE AFTER SOWING
• First cut: 60-80mm
• Minimum height: 40-60mm
• Subsequent cuts and frequency: 25-40mm
Public green 30mm 1 x per week
Playing fields 30mm 1 x per week
Fine lawns 10-15mm 2 x per week
• Irrigation: Only in dry periods after sowing