Pros and Cons

Laying new turf is both convenient and practical. And it gives an instant wow factor! If you have an event or a date in mind to achieve a pristine lawn, then turf is what you need. Unlike seed, it’s not dependent on the season, so it can be laid at any time.

• You will need to consider the cost and labour required. so the choice depends on your budget, ability to lay (or contract a landscaper) and whether you are in a hurry.
• Turf will provide a completed and useable lawn just 2-4 weeks after laying. If you choose seed, the length of time it takes to establish is dictated by temperatures and hours of daylight. It could potentially take 2-4 months to achieve similar grass coverage.
• It’s also worth considering the amount of time it takes to prepare the area for both options. Seed beds will require more labour prior to sowing.
• Turf can be laid at any time of year, as long as the ground is not frozen. Seed has a much smaller window of opportunity, with ideal sowing times March to May or September and October.
• There are more potential issues with seeds than turf. Turf is already established whereas seeds have to go through many stages of development. Seeds can be badly affected by extreme weather conditions; for example, torrential rain will wash seeds away and if there’s not enough sun, the seeds just won’t establish.
• If budget is the driving factor and time is not an issue, then seeding is the cheaper way to go, especially if you are intending on doing all the work yourself.

Best of both

Potentially, and if it suits your budget better, you could use a mixture of turf and seed successfully, especially if the area has more diverse location or soil issues.

• Places to turf: areas to be used soon with heavy use, and shady, steep or areas with poorer soil quality where it is harder to grow seed.
• Places to seed: less used areas which aren’t so visible from windows and seating areas.

There are many factors to consider and each garden project is unique. If you have further questions on whether to choose turf or seed for your garden, we would be more than happy to advise.  Please contact us on 01392 231040 or email sales@wesellturf.com