A lush, green lawn is the cornerstone of any great New Zealand garden. It provides a perfect space for outdoor living, a safe area for kids to play, and a beautiful frame for your home. But when it comes to creating one, the big question is always the same: should you choose ready lawn (turf) for instant results, or the more traditional route of growing a lawn from seed?
At Gardenscape Landscaping, we know the choice often comes down to two things: time and money. While the final price can vary depending on your site and location, we’ve broken down the key cost factors to help you make an informed decision for your project.
Option 1: The Ready Lawn (Turf) – Your Instant Garden
Ready lawn involves laying down pre-grown rolls of turf, providing an almost-instant lawn. It’s the perfect choice for those who want immediate results with minimal fuss.
Pros:
- Instant Impact: You get a full, green lawn in a single day.
- Fewer Weeds: Because the lawn is already mature, it’s more resistant to weeds taking root.
- Erosion Control: Excellent for sloped or challenging sites where soil could wash away.
Cons:
- Higher Upfront Cost: The cost per square metre is significantly higher than seed.
- Labour Intensive: Requires heavy lifting and quick installation to prevent the turf from drying out.
The Costs for Ready Lawn
The cost of ready lawn typically ranges from $25 to $40 per square metre, but this can vary. This price usually includes the turf itself and professional installation. However, you can save a lot by doing the installation yourself, in which case you’ll only pay for the turf and delivery, which might be in the range of $10 to $15 per square metre.
Key Cost Factors:
- Turf Cost: Varies by supplier and the type of grass.
- Delivery: Can be a significant cost, especially for large quantities.
- Installation: Professional installation adds to the cost but guarantees a quality result.
Option 2: The Lawn from Seed – The Patient Choice
Creating a lawn from seed is a more traditional and cost-effective method. While it requires patience and a bit more work in the initial weeks, the long-term results can be incredibly rewarding.
Pros:
- Much Cheaper: The initial cost is a fraction of what you’d pay for ready lawn.
- More Variety: You have a wider choice of grass types, allowing you to select a blend perfect for your climate and usage.
- Rewarding Process: Seeing your lawn grow from scratch is a satisfying experience.
Cons:
- Slow Results: It can take weeks to see a full green cover, and a full year to be fully established.
- Vulnerable to Weeds: The bare soil is susceptible to weeds, requiring diligent early maintenance.
- Requires Care: The first few weeks require consistent watering to ensure successful germination.
The Costs for Lawn from Seed
The cost of a lawn from seed is far lower, with materials typically ranging from $2 to $5 per square metre, depending on the quality and type of seed you choose. The main costs are the seed itself, topsoil, and starter fertiliser.
Key Cost Factors:
- Grass Seed: Prices vary based on the grass blend.
- Topsoil: High-quality topsoil is crucial for germination and is often the biggest cost.
- Fertiliser: A starter fertiliser will give your new lawn the best chance to thrive.
The Hidden Costs: Site Preparation
No matter which option you choose, you can’t skip site preparation. This is a critical step that impacts the success and final cost of your project.
- Removing an Existing Lawn: If you have an old lawn, you’ll need to remove it, either with a sod cutter, a digger, or a weed killer.
- Levelling and Drainage: The ground must be perfectly level and have adequate drainage to prevent puddles. This may require bringing in fill or topsoil.
- Tools and Equipment: You may need to hire or buy a roller, a spreader, and other tools to get the job done right.
These costs are often overlooked but are essential for a beautiful, long-lasting lawn.
Your Final Decision
The choice between ready lawn and seed is ultimately a trade-off between time and money. If you have the budget and want a quick fix, ready lawn is the way to go. If you are patient and want to save money, starting from seed is a great option. For ongoing advice lawn care advice, check out this seasonal guide.
No matter which path you choose, a healthy, thriving lawn starts with quality materials and the right advice. Contact Gardenscape Landscaping for all your topsoil, seed, fertiliser, and equipment needs. Our team can help you calculate the exact quantities required for your project, so you can start creating the perfect lawn for your home.