Optimising Turf Performance: A Complete Guide to Watering & Irrigation

A healthy lawn relies on water; we are all aware of this. But when that lawn is expected to deliver, game after game, season after season, the right watering strategy is essential.

More water doesn’t always equate to a thriving lawn, which is why we have developed the StrathAyr guide to irrigation and watering practices. We are here to ensure your lawn stays strong, sustainable and radiant all year round so that your lawn is always the best looking lawn on the street.

Watering Strategy

Just like us, lawns need water to thrive, and they also benefit from proper routines. To ensure your lawn is more resilient to heat, dry spells, pests and disease, we recommend watering deeply. This encourages turf roots to grow further down into the soil, where the moisture stays longer, and temperatures remain more stable.

Conversely, frequent shallow watering teaches roots to remain near the surface, leaving them vulnerable to drought and temperature fluctuations. The goal is deep, infrequent watering that trains your lawn to be self-sufficient and strong. After all, your playing surface is another important member of your team!

Establishing New Turf

If you’ve recently installed your new StrathAyr lawn, consistent watering is vital to its success. Turf is a perishable product that must be watered as soon as it’s laid. This helps the slabs knit into the soil and begin forming deep root systems that will sustain your lawn for years, ensuring it remains durable and perfected for play.

During the establishment phase, water two to three times daily for the first fourteen days, increasing frequency during extreme heat. From weeks three to four, reduce to once daily as roots begin to establish. After four weeks, shift to deep watering two to three times per week.

Always water enough that you are soaking through the surface, to ensure the soil beneath the slabs stays damp. You can check this by gently lifting a corner of the turf to assess soil moisture.

Choosing the Right Irrigation System

The best irrigation system delivers even coverage with minimal waste; however, it will also depend on whether you are watering a golf course or a community park. We have gathered the options here, so you can make an informed decision:

Pop-Up Systems work ideally for permanent lawns and can be set on timers for consistent watering. Ensure heads are properly adjusted to avoid wasteful overspray onto paths, fences or other non-target areas. This is a popular choice for sporting fields and parks across Victoria, ideally installed prior to turf being laid.

Sprinkler Systems offer versatility for most lawns. Choose sprinklers that produce larger droplets to reduce evaporation, and schedule early-morning watering to maximise efficiency and make every drop count. You will often see these on lawn tennis courts.

Drip Irrigation provides highly water-efficient delivery, especially for irregular-shaped lawns or garden beds adjoining turf. Drip systems deliver water directly to the root zone, minimising both evaporation and runoff.

Combining a smart irrigation controller or timer with rain sensors to adjust watering based on weather conditions automatically can be a very efficient approach, with this simple addition saving time and water while ensuring your lawn receives exactly what it needs.

Optimal Watering Times

Between the hours of 5 am and 10 am is the most effective time to water your lawn, as the cool, calm air allows moisture to soak deep into the soil and reduces the risk of loss through evaporation. We suggest avoiding watering late at night, as prolonged dampness can encourage fungal problems, particularly in humid weather conditions.

Water Smart, Grow Strong, Game On

The right irrigation technique and routine won’t just conserve water; it will aid in building better, more resilient lawns. At StrathAyr, we’re committed to helping you create thriving green spaces for every occasion and every season.

Our research-driven approach to turf cultivation, combined with our meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of production and delivery, ensures you receive premium quality turf built to endure.

For personalised advice on irrigation systems, water requirements or variety selection, reach out to the team at StrathAyr. We are here to ensure your lawn is perfected for play, all year round.

Call us on 1800 622 455 or visit strathayr.com

November 25, 2025/by Belle Plunkett

Drought-Tolerant Lawns for Summer

Blog, Residential, Uncategorized

Drought-Tolerant Lawns for Summer

We all know that Australian summers can be unforgiving. Scorching sun, water restrictions and unpredictable rainfall conspire to test lawns across the country. That doesn’t mean you must sacrifice the dream of a lush, green lawn where memories are made.

At StrathAyr, our specialty is turf varieties that are bred to thrive in dry conditions, while remaining soft underfoot and beautiful year-round. If you’re seeking the best drought-tolerant turf for Victoria, here’s why these standout varieties deliver exceptional performance when water is scarce.

Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo

Developed specifically for Australian conditions, Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo is engineered to excel in harsh climates year-round, from frosty winters to dry, hot summers. This soft-leaf buffalo is tough yet plush, creating a velvety surface that invites barefoot walks and backyard play. Its dense, broad leaves shade the soil naturally, slowing evaporation and locking in valuable moisture.

Why Sir Walter Excels in Drought

Sir Walter’s deep root system reaches moisture further down in the soil profile, accessing water reserves that shallow-rooted grasses cannot reach. Its dense growth habit acts like natural mulch, reducing water loss through evaporation. The variety thrives brilliantly in full sun but handles partial shade with equal competence, making it remarkably versatile for varied landscapes. Its self-repairing characteristics mean it recovers quickly from wear or heat stress.

Once established, Sir Walter demonstrates exceptional water efficiency and resilience. It’s perfect for family backyards where children play cricket, shaded courtyards where parents unwind, and high-traffic areas where life happens. For DIY homeowners and tradespeople servicing family homes, Sir Walter represents the ideal choice: a lawn that’s easy to install, simple to maintain and built to last.

Imagine laying this soft-leaf turf yourself, watching it knit into the soil and flourish into a sparkling green space where family and friends gather.

TifTuf: The Water-Wise Wonder

If you’re seeking a fine-leafed lawn that handles heat with remarkable resilience, TifTuf remains the unbeatable option.

TifTuf is the first turf grass in Australia to receive the Smart Drop Certification, meaning it’s proven to use up to 38 percent less water than other turf varieties while maintaining excellent colour and coverage year-round.

Why TifTuf Leads in Water Efficiency

Developed from evaluating 30,000 couch varieties, TifTuf represents the pinnacle of drought-resistant turf breeding. Its fine leaves and dense coverage minimise water loss through evaporation. High wear tolerance makes it perfect for active backyards and sports areas. Quick recovery and self-repairing growth habits make it incredibly resilient.

Once established, TifTuf can survive extended dry periods without losing its vibrant green colour. It’s tough, attractive and built for the unpredictable extremes of Victorian summers, staying fresh and play-ready even when conditions challenge.

Establishing Drought-Tolerant Turf Successfully

Even the toughest lawns need the right foundation. Here’s how to help your new turf develop water-smart characteristics and flourish for years to come:

Prepare your soil thoroughly before laying. Use a soil conditioner or wetting agent like Amgrow Wettasoil to improve moisture retention, particularly in sandy or water-repellent soils. Install irrigation efficiently, watering deeply and less frequently to encourage deeper root development. Apply LSA Lawn Launcher when installing your turf to promote rapid root establishment, and top up with Exceed Liquid Fertiliser during the first summer for extra stress resistance. Mow at a slightly higher setting; keeping your grass a bit longer helps shade the soil and prevent evaporation.

With proper establishment care, both Sir Walter and TifTuf will continue to thrive even through long, hot, dry periods.

At StrathAyr, we’re committed to supplying lawns that suit all lifestyles, even during the toughest seasons. GAME ON.

Contact the team today at strathayr.com or 1800 622 455

November 19, 2025/by Belle Plunkett

Laying a new lawn in Summer

Blog, Residential

Laying a new lawn in Summer

When the weather heats up, most people think of winding down. But at StrathAyr, we know that it’s also the perfect time for projects to get underway! Whether it’s a local park revamp or your backyard, with the right preparation and watering routine, turf laid in the warmer months can establish faster, greener and stronger than ever.

Here’s why you should take advantage of the season and get your new lawn thriving this summer.

Warm weather means rapid root growth

Turf loves warmth, especially varieties like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo and TifTuf Bermuda, which thrive in the Australian climate. The warmer soil temperatures in summer encourage quick root establishment, helping your turf settle in faster and start spreading sooner. Unlike cooler months when growth can slow down, summer gives your new lawn a head start, so it’s well established before the chill of winter sets in.

More sunlight means stronger turf

Sunshine is your new lawn’s best friend. The longer daylight hours of summer help turf produce more energy through photosynthesis, which promotes lush green colour and strong, dense coverage. If you’re working with a patch that’s been looking a little tired or uneven, summer’s sunlight can help your new lawn bounce back quickly, which is perfect timing for outdoor entertaining season!

Easier to keep moisture consistent

While summer can bring hotter, drier conditions, modern turf varieties are designed to handle it. By following a consistent watering schedule during the first few weeks, your turf will establish deep, healthy roots that make it more drought-tolerant in the long run. Installing an irrigation system or using a smart timer can make watering easy and efficient, ensuring your new lawn gets exactly what it needs to thrive.

Instant transformation for outdoor living

There’s no better time to enjoy a beautiful green lawn than summer. Installing turf now means you can enjoy instant results; you’ll have a lush, soft surface for barbecues in the park, family games in the backyard, and relaxing afternoons outdoors before you know it.

Summer turf care made simple

With a few simple steps, your summer-laid lawn will flourish. Lay on moist soil and water immediately after installation. Keep the surface damp for the first 2–3 weeks while roots establish. Mow lightly once the turf is well rooted and avoid cutting it too short. Fertilise early in the growing season to encourage strong growth and colour.

At StrathAyr, we grow turf varieties suited to Australia’s warm, dry conditions, perfected for play all year round.

To find out more about making the most of summertime, contact the team at strathayr.com or 1800 622 455.

November 17, 2025/by Belle Plunkett

The History of TifTuf: A Turf Built to Thrive

Blog, Residential

The History of TifTuf: A Turf Built to Thrive

When it comes to tough, good-looking lawns that can handle the Australian climate, TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda is a standout performer. Engineered for peak playability and designed to thrive under pressure, TifTuf has become the benchmark for modern, water-efficient turf. Let’s take a look at the fascinating history behind this world-class variety.

From the labs of the University of Georgia

TifTuf’s story begins at the University of Georgia’s Tifton Campus, a world-leading centre for turfgrass research. For over 25 years, scientists there have been developing & improving Bermuda grass varieties that deliver exceptional performance under tough conditions. After testing over 30,000 hybrid variations, one line stood out for its outstanding colour retention, fine leaf texture and remarkable drought tolerance. This became the variety we now know as TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda.

Before making its way to Australia, TifTuf underwent rigorous field trials across the United States. Researchers evaluated how well it performed under stress: from heat and drought to heavy wear. The results were impressive, with TifTuf consistently able to maintain excellent colour and density with up to 38% less water than other couch grasses. These results led to TifTuf being the first grass in the world to receive the Smart Approved WaterMark, recognising its water efficiency and sustainability.

A perfect fit for Australian conditions

When TifTuf was introduced to Australia through the TurfBreed and Lawn Solutions Australia network, it was an instant hit with growers, landscapers and homeowners alike. Our climate can be punishing, but TifTuf’s drought tolerance, wear resistance and quick recovery make it a natural choice for Australian backyards, sports fields and commercial landscapes. Its fine leaf and bright green colour add instant appeal, while its ability to stay strong and healthy through long, hot summers makes maintenance easier and more sustainable.

The benchmark for modern turf

Today, TifTuf is recognised across the country as one of the most advanced turf varieties available. Its combination of beauty, durability and water efficiency reflects decades of scientific innovation. It’s now the benchmark for modern, environmentally conscious lawn care. TifTuf Bermuda is engineered for high wear, drought tolerance and sports performance, making it the go-to choice for sports fields and active families who demand stadium-worthy surfaces at home.

At StrathAyr, we’re proud to grow and supply TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda, knowing it’s a turf that not only looks great but also performs brilliantly in the conditions we know best. Your lawn. Your lifestyle. GAME ON.

November 14, 2025/by Belle Plunkett