Avoid 5 Common Mistakes When Installing Instant Lawn in Zimbabwe

Laying a new instant lawn is a big step – whether it’s for a home, a golf course, an office park or a new development. Around Zimbabwe, we see the same mistakes crop up time and again. They’re easy to avoid if you know what to watch for, and we do – that’s why we stand out among competitors.

Here’s what to look out for:

1. Letting It Dry Out

Zimbabwe’s heat can be unforgiving, even in autumn. A new lawn needs watering two to three times a day for the first two weeks, depending on the weather. If the soil dries out, the roots will burn, and there’s no easy way back from there.

2. Rushing the First Mow

Give the roots time to anchor. Test it by gently tugging at the grass – if it holds firm, it’s ready. Mow too early, and you risk tearing up whole sections, especially when the spring winds pick up.

3. Poor Soil Preparation

We still see lawns laid straight onto hard clay or sandy patches. It doesn’t work. Proper soil preparation – levelling, breaking up compacted ground, and adding compost or fertiliser is half the job. Without it, even the best lawn will struggle.

4. Too Much Foot Traffic

A new lawn isn’t ready for heavy use. At homes, schools, business parks and estates, we recommend setting up barriers or signs to keep people off for the first month. It makes a world of difference to root development.

5. Skipping the Fertiliser

Zimbabwe’s soils often look good on the surface, but some are short on nutrients. Always use a starter fertiliser when you lay the lawn, then feed lightly every six to eight weeks during the growing season to keep it strong and healthy.

If you take care of these basics, you’ll give your lawn the best possible start – and it’ll show for years to come. For any tips or to have us take care of it all for you – get in touch!