What should you put down before laying turf?

I'm turfing a section of garden that's currently bare soil with some weed growth. Can you lay straight onto levelled soil?

Asked by jonathan on 31st May 2026
Expert Trade Answers
"You can lay turf directly onto prepared soil, but it’s worth taking a little time to get the ground right first.

* Remove all weeds, stones and debris.
* Dig over and level the soil.
* Apply a general-purpose pre-turf fertiliser.
* Rake to create a fine, firm seedbed.
* If weeds are present, treat them and allow time for them to die off before laying."
Answered on 2nd Jun 2026 - Member since Jun 2026 - report
"I would say if the grounds got alot of stones or its shallow id put 4 to 6 inches of premium topsoil down and a a starter fertiliser if youve got pets id have a good look at them to make sure they are pet friendly"
Answered on 2nd Jun 2026 - Member since May 2026 - report
"It wpupd be a good idea to use a breathable membrane then top soil befprw turfing"
Answered on 2nd Jun 2026 - Member since Jun 2026 - report
"You just dig out all mould rubble and add new topsoil let bed and set the apply the new turf preferably you need to lay turf the same day as arriving high risk of dying out in the sun"
Answered on 9th Jun 2026 - Member since Jan 2025 - report
"Before laying turf you should put down a nice layer of new rootzone. Ideally take out all weeds and loosen then soil to allow root growth."
Answered on 5th Jun 2026 - Member since Mar 2026 - report
"1. Clear the area by removing any old grass, weeds, stones, roots, and other debris.
2. Dig over the soil to a depth of around 10–15 cm to loosen it and improve drainage.
3. If the soil is poor, mix in some fresh topsoil or compost to create a better growing base.
4. Rake the ground until it’s level, smoothing out high spots and filling in any dips.
5. Firm the surface by walking over it or using a garden roller, then give it a light rake to create a fine, even finish.
6. Spread a pre-turf fertilizer to help the new lawn establish strong roots.
7. If the ground is dry, give it a light watering before laying the turf."
Answered on 31st May 2026 - Member since Jun 2025 - report
"Remove all weeds and stones, rake and rake again to get a fine tilth. Level the area and then lay the turf
Ensure you get tight joins and drown it with water once laid, then water to keep the turf soaked for first week then ease water to every 3rd day depending on weather, takes about 3/4 weeks for turf to root well"
Answered on 31st May 2026 - Member since Mar 2026 - report
"If you want to stop the weed you can put underneath weed stop black flat roll"
Answered on 1st Jun 2026 - Member since Mar 2024 - report
"hello George here from Burgess estates , good soil is the key so it will keep enough nutrition in the ground ready for the turf and a nice level base will make the grass take better ."
Answered on 4th Jun 2026 - Member since Aug 2023 - report
"Yes you can.. as you it’s levelled and as long there are not too many weeds then it should be fine.. also a grass fertiliser is a good idea. Regards Mark"
Answered on 1st Jun 2026 - Member since May 2026 - report
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