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

Best Turf for Dogs

Blog

Best Turf For Dogs

A vibrant lawn is the pride and joy of many Aussie homes. More than a showpiece, it’s a place for the whole family to relax, play and entertain. But when your family includes an animal or two, your beloved patch of grass can face some unique challenges to its survival.

From wear and tear caused by games of fetch to unsightly grass burn from your pet’s toilet activities, a dog can quickly undo your hopes for a healthy lawn. But don’t worry, there are steps you can take when choosing, installing and maintaining your turf that can help keep both you and your four-legged friend happily enjoying your slice of grassy paradise for years to come.

Managing a Dog-Friendly Lawn

Opting for a generally resilient lawn grass is the first and perhaps most important thing pet owners can do to create a green space compatible with an active dog. A key factor when considering the best turf for dogs in Australia is wear tolerance, especially important if you have a big breed or hyperactive pup who likes to tear around the place. Beyond that, there are some specific challenges that cannot be addressed by any of the available lawn varieties.

Before we delve into the various grass types suitable for creating a wear-resistant space, let’s take a closer look at the main issues, examining their causes and some management strategies you can use.

Playing Ruff – Damage From Foot/Paw Traffic

One of the biggest issues dog ‘parents’ face is good old-fashioned wear and tear. That constant running, jumping and scrambling during games of fetch, tug-of-war can be tough on even the most resilient grass types. If you thought kids could do some damage, imagine the impact of four fast-moving paws instead of two feet, not to mention if you have a large or especially strong breed like a German Shepherd or a Staffy.

Signs of this include thinning grass, bare patches and even noticeable ruts/divots in your turf. They may first show up along shady fence lines or high-traffic corridors. Effects are exacerbated if your pet runs amok after heavy rain or watering (not to mention the annoying muddy footprints inside your house).

How to manage paw traffic damage:

Short of limiting your hound to low-impact exercise on the lawn, or banning it entirely from the area, the best thing you can do is pick a high-wear variety like TifTuf Bermuda or Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu. While these are among the most robust lawn turf for dogs available, keep in mind that the fast-repairing nature of even these most resilient varieties will be limited for a lawn in shaded areas.

Compacted Soil

All that heavy foot traffic doesn’t just affect the surface vegetation; it also squashes the soil underneath. It restricts water, air and nutrients from reaching the roots, weakening your turf and slowing recovery. This hidden stress weakens the turf, making it less able to recover from damage and more prone to other problems. You might notice water pooling after rain or your lawn struggling to stay green despite your best efforts.

What you can do about canine compaction:

Compacted soil is a common problem even for pet-free lawns and can be treated effectively with aeration – essentially creating channels in the soil to increase air and water flow. Done either with a pitchfork or a specialised core aerating tool, it’s optimal to schedule it before the peak growing season as part of a larger lawn renovation regime.

The Digging Dilemma

Some dogs are notorious excavators, especially terriers bred to dig into the earth in chase of vermin. Other pets, like cats, are also known to dig the occasional hole, particularly along the edges of lawns. Whether your pooch (or pussycat) likes to bury their favourite chew toys, chase a scent, cool down, or simply burn off some energy, those holes can obviously cause significant lawn damage.

Holes in your yard? Here’s what you can do:

Unfortunately, no turf is “dig-proof,” but some grass varieties do have better self-repairing properties than others, meaning they can repair quickly, provided the hole is filled (and the dog doesn’t dig another one).

Yellow or Brown Patches? Dog Urine Might be the Culprit

You’ve put great care and effort into choosing premium instant turf, preparing your site, laying the turf and nurturing it through the establishment period. After a month, you are the proud owner of a beautiful new lawn, and it’s time to let everyone enjoy it. But what are these nasty discoloured patches popping up around the yard, usually appearing as circles up to about a foot in diameter?

If this describes your experience, we feel for you. Dogs love a good lawn, seeing it as a welcome new addition to their domain, but you know how dogs like to mark their territory. Unfortunately, dog wee is high in nitrogen and salts. While a little nitrogen is good for turf (it’s a key component of fertiliser), too much of this good thing will burn the grass. Similar damage can occur if you apply too much lawn food when fertilising.

Answering a ‘burning question’ for dog owners…

So what can be done about this irritating issue? Well, turns out urine burns are common enough to have spawned several products and strategies to stop dog urine from causing such chaos. Most can be classed as preventative measures, aimed at stopping your dog from doing their business on your lawn in the first place. Others aim to lessen the potency of their pee to mitigate the burning effect.

Preventative Measures:

Training your dog’s toileting behaviour: Encouraging your dog to pee in designated areas like garden beds. Combined with regular walks to lessen the chance of lawn mishaps, you can avoid them going to town on your lawn. There are special sprays available for purchase that claim to mimic the pheromones in dog urine, which can be sprayed on the specific zone/s you’d like your doggy toilet/s to be.
Using strong scents: Canines have a very keen sense of smell, and reportedly don’t like going to the toilet on surfaces that smell bad to them. Some lawn owners have reported using acidic substances like citrus oil sprays, coffee grounds or vinegar to discourage their dogs from doing number 1s on the grass. Keep in mind that too much acidity can also be bad for your soil, so test in moderation before ramping up the dose.

Remediative Measures:

Get your dog to drink more water: The more hydrated your hound is, the more diluted their urine, meaning it won’t cause as much damage.
Filter your dog’s drinking water: Tap water can contain damaging impurities, including ammonia, tin and other nitrates. Some owners take care to give their dog filtered water. There’s also a product called Dog Rocks, which are special pebbles that you place in their water bowl to remove these contaminants. In theory, the more pure the drinking water, the less potent the dog pee.
Consider diet changes: Nitrogen is a natural by-product of protein digestion, so dog urine is inherently bad news for grass. Talk to your vet about whether you should experiment with lowering your pet’s protein intake to lessen the damage.
Flush out the areas: Ultimately, if you let your dog roam free on a lawn, they’re likely to answer nature’s call sooner or later. If you happen to catch them in the act, the best thing you can do is water the area with a hose immediately. Make sure you irrigate the affected area deeply to dilute the urine, ensuring it penetrates to the roots to defuse as much damage as possible.

Choosing the Best Lawn Type for Tough Grass Your Furry Friend Will Love

Selecting the right product when it comes to lawn grass is the cornerstone of creating a backyard that both you and your pet can enjoy. Some grass varieties are simply built tougher for life with dogs, though factors like potential grass allergies for your pets or family can also influence your choice.

Generally speaking, lawns enjoying full sun will always be more resilient and better able to repair quickly from any lawn damage. Even grass types known for good shade tolerance will exhibit less wear tolerance if laid in heavily shaded areas. Let’s explore some of the best grass turf for dogs available from StrathAyr, perfect for the Victorian climate.

TifTuf Bermuda

TifTuf Bermuda has quickly become a go-to turf for challenging conditions, offering a remarkable combination of durability, good looks, and improved shade tolerance compared to other types of couch grass. It’s an excellent choice if your dog loves to play hard.

Incredibly wear-resistant: Its dense growth and strong, deep roots create a tough surface that withstands the constant heavy foot traffic and energetic play of active dogs.
Ability to quickly repair after damage: Recovers rapidly from trauma thanks to its vigorous growth habit and fast-spreading runners.
Low allergy option: Typically produces little pollen, making it a better choice for family members or pets who may have sensitivities to some grass types.

Sir Walter Buffalo Turf

Sir Walter DNA-Certified Buffalo turf is a true Aussie icon, renowned for its low-maintenance and robust nature, making it a fantastic all-rounder for a dog-friendly lawn. Great underfoot (or paw) and equally comfortable in full sunlight or part shade, Sir Walter is hard to beat for Victorian homes (pets or no pets).

High-traffic turf: Features dense coverage and robust root system to resist damage from general dog play and family activities.
Regenerative abilities: Its spreading runners help to mend areas affected by wear, light digging, or occasional urine burns, maintaining a healthy lawn.
Low-allergenic: Minimal seed heads and a soft leaf blade for minimal sensitivities.

Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu

If your dog is a high-energy champion of play and your backyard gets plenty of full sun, Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu is an incredibly robust contender. Its sheer toughness and rapid growth make it a prime candidate for withstanding the most energetic of pets.

Extreme wear tolerance: Its dense, mat-forming growth creates an exceptionally tough surface that stands up to the most vigorous dog activity and high traffic.
Excellent self-repairing: Even during winter dormancy, this Kikuyu cultivar maintains active growth, aiding year-round self-repair despite cooler temperatures and less sunlight.

Conclusion

With the right lawn turf for dogs and a few smart strategies, you don’t have to choose between a healthy lawn and a happy dog. With a bit of planning, you can absolutely create a beautiful lawn that keeps both you and your furry friends happy throughout years of outdoor enjoyment.

Want more help pet-proofing your lawn? Check out our turf selector tool or call 1800 622 455 to chat with an expert.

Best Turf For Dogs Australia FAQs

Is it OK for my dog to eat grass?

It’s perfectly normal for dogs to chew on grass, and it can sometimes aid their digestion. As most common residential varieties of natural grass are non-toxic, it’s not a cause for concern. The main consideration is ensuring any products used on your lawn, like fertilisers or pest controls, are also pet-safe and environmentally friendly.

Choosing naturally pest-resistant grass turf for dogs, such as Sir Walter DNA-Certified Buffalo, can reduce the need for chemical treatments. However, always follow the directions on the label and keep pets (and people) off the lawn for a day or two after applying any treatments.

What about artificial grass / artificial turf?

While synthetic grass might seem like a low-maintenance option, real turf for dogs often provides a better overall environment for dogs. Real grass stays cooler, offers a more natural feel that dogs love, and deals with waste more organically. Synthetic turf can get very hot in summer, may retain odours if not cleaned meticulously, and doesn’t offer the same sensory experience or sustainability benefits as a living lawn.

October 22, 2025/by Jack McDonald

Natural Turf Installation

Blog, Uncategorized

Natural Turf Installation

A vibrant, lush lawn can instantly transform your outdoor area. It adds an inviting green ground cover that sets the stage for family picnics, sunrise yoga sessions, backyard cricket or footy and much more! Whether you’re a homeowner dreaming of your perfect patch or a landscaper looking to up your game, this comprehensive guide offers expert advice on all aspects of the process of natural lawn installation, from choosing the right turf and preparing the site to installation and essential maintenance.

How to Choose, Prepare for, and Lay a Natural Grass Turf Lawn

Transforming your outdoor space with natural turf begins with careful planning. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown to ensure success:

Step 1. Choose Your Turf Type

The first step in any natural turf installation project is selecting the right turf variety for your space. Key factors to consider include:

Climate – Warm-season grasses like Buffalo and Bermuda thrive in Australian summers but slow down in winter. Cool-season types like an RTF Tall Fescue lawn keep growing through the colder months.
Sunlight levels – As living plants, all turf varieties need some sunlight to thrive. Different types have varying shade tolerance: Buffalo and Zoysia can cope with as little as three hours of direct sun or four to six hours of filtered light, while Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu needs full sun for most of the day to stay healthy. Before choosing your turf, take the time to observe how the sun moves across your lawn area, ideally over different seasons, to get a true picture of how much light the space receives.
Usage – If your lawn needs to handle heavy foot traffic (either the two-foot or four-paw variety), warm-season grasses like TifTuf Turf Bermuda, Eureka Premium VG Kikuyu and Sir Grange Zoysia are ideal. They’re tough, quick to recover, and perfect for busy backyards. Cool-season natural turf options like RTF Tall Fescue are less durable and can struggle under constant use.
Maintenance needs – TifTuf Bermuda is a great option thanks to its unbeatable drought tolerance and minimal requirements for fertilising and herbicides. These qualities more than make up for the occasional mowing required to tame its robust growth. Sir Walter DNA-Certified Buffalo is another good option, requiring less mowing, watering and fertilising than most grass varieties.

You are not alone in your decision. Our expert team is ready to help you choose the right natural grass turf for your yard from so many quality options.

Step 2. Measure Your Outdoor Area and Order Your Turf

Once you’ve picked the turf, measure the area to calculate how much turf you’ll need. It’s a good idea to overestimate slightly to account for odd shapes (like garden beds) or trimming errors. We recommend adding around an extra 5%.

If your yard isn’t a standard rectangular layout, sketch it out on paper, breaking it up into its constituent shapes (squares, rectangles, triangles, semicircles). Then use our handy turf calculator to ascertain the exact area in square metres.

All of our instant turf comes in slabs, each roughly 0.5m2, measuring 1.25m long by 0.4m wide. Simply select your desired quantity in square metres. For orders under 30m2, contact our sales team on 1800 622 455.

Step 3. Prepare the Site

Proper site preparation lays the groundwork for effective topsoil and turf installation. Depending on how much work your site needs, this step can be one of the most labour-intensive parts of the job. Homeowners might want to consider enlisting help from a professional or friends/family.

Clear the area: Remove any existing vegetation and weeds. Spray herbicides if necessary, then wait 1–2 weeks before proceeding. You may need to remove the top layer to bring in a more suitable base layer. We recommend 100-150mm of a good quality sandy loam top soil, available from your local garden supply centre, for optimal root establishment.
Establish drainage: If the ground tends to retain excess moisture, consider levelling or stormwater pipes or French drains to prevent waterlogging.

At this stage, envision your final lawn layout and check that the surface is ready for turf installation.

Step 4. Apply Turf Underlay & Level

Healthy dirt is the foundation for a long and healthy lawn life. To give your new grass its best possible start, the simplest and most effective approach is to ensure it has a quality base to grow in.

For most sites, we recommend clearing the area and then spreading a layer of sandy loam to a depth of 150mm. This new topsoil provides the ideal foundation for your lawn to establish a deep root system, which in turn boosts nutrition and helps retain essential moisture.

Once your underlay is down, you can use a rake or a soil screed to level the surface, checking it with a spirit level in both directions for even better results. A smooth, even base is crucial as any bumps or dips can lead to an uneven finish and may cause scalping when you mow.

Step 5. Install an Irrigation System (Optional)

The best way to ensure that you maintain a healthy lawn is by installing an automatic irrigation system.There are big benefits of investing in in-ground sprinklers:

Set and forget – Sprinklers can be set on a timer so you don’t need to worry about turning on the tap, or asking a neighbour to help out if you go away on holidays.
Superior coverage – Sprinkler heads and hoses come in a huge range of options for spray pattern and water pressure, meaning every blade of grass gets sufficiently wet regardless of your site’s size and shape.

If you’d prefer to avoid the extra work and cost of installing irrigation, that’s fine, just remember you’ll need to water by hand using a hose gun or a sprinkler, which takes time and regular effort. With this in mind, a little extra work before installing your lawn can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

Step 6. Lay Your Turf

Finally, the exciting part! Follow these tips to lay your natural grass turf effectively:

Apply lawn starter fertiliser – Spread a slow-release fertiliser across the surface before installation. All orders above 30m2 will come with starter fertiliser. This will provide essential nutrients for your new turf to thrive.
Start immediately – Lay your turf rolls or slabs as soon as they arrive to preserve freshness.
Line up the turf – Begin at a straight edge, laying each strip with the edges butted together snugly. Stagger the joints in a brickwork pattern to avoid weak lines.
Encourage good root contact – Once the turf is laid, walk on it or use a roller to gently press the turf down. This helps the grass roots make good contact with the soil, promoting better establishment.
Water thoroughly – Immediately after laying, water the turf generously (at least 25mm) to help it settle and bond with the soil.

Pro tip: Avoid laying turf in extremely hot weather, as these conditions can stress the grass.

Caring for Your New Lawn

Laying instant lawn is just the beginning. Proper care in the first few weeks and beyond ensures your lawn stays healthy and resilient.

The First Few Weeks

For newly laid turf, the first 2–3 weeks after turf installation are crucial:

Frequent watering – Keep the soil and turf moist throughout the day. Water at least once daily, or twice on hot days. Adjust frequency based on seasonal temperatures.
Limit traffic – Avoid walking, mowing, or heavy foot traffic on the lawn until the roots are firmly established.
Edge trimming – If excess edges lift or fray, trim them gently to improve the lawn’s appearance.

Ongoing Establishment Care

Once your turf begins to root into the soil, it’s time to transition to a slightly lighter, but still attentive, care routine to safeguard future lawn health.

Watering

After the first 2–3 weeks, you can gradually reduce watering frequency. Shift from daily watering to a deeper soak every 2–3 days, depending on weather. The goal is to encourage the roots to grow deeper in search of moisture, making the lawn stronger and more drought-tolerant.

Mowing

Once your turf reaches around 8–10 cm tall and shows signs of firm rooting (you can’t pull the turf up any more), it’s safe for the first mow. Always set the mower blades high and only remove the top third of the leaf to avoid shocking the grass. Some fast-growing types like TifTuf Bermuda might be ready even earlier.

Fertilising

About six weeks after installation, once the lawn is actively growing, apply your first round of slow-release fertiliser. We recommend LSA Premium Fertiliser, available from StrathAyr, to encourage thick, healthy coverage without promoting excessive thatch.

Weeds and Pests

At this early stage, your lawn is still filling in, so keep an eye out for weeds trying to get a foothold. Hand removal is best at this early stage to avoid damaging your new lawn. Preventative pest control usually isn’t needed yet, but if signs of grubs or insects appear, act quickly to avoid setbacks.

Artificial Turf or Natural Grass – What’s Better for Your Instant Lawn?

A common question many mull over is whether to choose synthetic or natural turf. The artificial option is tempting for many time-poor homeowners who want the colour and comfort of a lawn without the ongoing maintenance involved with a living lawn. Let’s go through some advantages and challenges of both synthetic and natural turf:

Natural Turf

Natural turf gives you the real thing: a living surface that not only looks great but also supports the surrounding environment. With proper care, a natural lawn stays lush year after year and adapts naturally to seasonal changes and for time-poor homeowners a minimal maintenance lawn like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo might be just the thing you’re looking for.

Pros

Environmentally friendly — absorbs CO₂, releases oxygen and supports biodiversity.
Naturally cools the surface and surrounding areas, perfect for hot weather.
Lower initial installation cost compared to synthetic options.
Can add more value to your property over time.
Superior aesthetics and feel – There’s an undeniable beauty and sensory appeal to natural grass.

Cons

Requires ongoing maintenance such as mowing, watering and fertilising.
Can increase water usage.

Synthetic Turf

An artificial lawn might seem like an easy option, but it has a range of hidden drawbacks and ultimately can’t match the real thing for feel, visual appeal and sustainability.

Pros

Low-maintenance – no mowing, fertilising or irrigation needed.
Hard-wearing and durable.
Maintains a consistent green appearance all year-round if maintained well.

Cons

Higher upfront cost for synthetic turf installation.
Environmental concerns – made from non-biodegradable materials which can leach into the ground over time, which is both unsafe and can have severely detrimental effects on soils.
Can retain heat, becoming uncomfortably hot underfoot during summer up to 40 degrees hotter than natural turf.
Additional Glare – Some synthetic surfaces can create harsh reflections, making your space uncomfortable on bright days, while natural grass absorbs light.
Natural turf = natural Play Surface – For families, natural turf is a softer, more forgiving surface for kids and pets to play on, reducing the risk of abrasions and injuries common with harder, artificial materials.
Can become damaged over time, creating unsightly landscapes and have a high cost to repair.

Should You Add Synthetic Lawn to Your Outdoor Space?

If you prioritise sustainability, comfort and a lush natural feel, natural turf is the clear winner. Artificial turf might suit areas with extreme climates or for those seeking low-maintenance options, but in most cases, we can offer a low maintenance or drought tolerant solution to suit your project.

From Big Backyards to Sporting Fields: We’re Leaders Among Natural Turf Suppliers

A thriving natural lawn not only enhances your home but also promotes biodiversity and creates a welcoming, green space for family gatherings or relaxing outdoors. With proper installation and care, your lawn will flourish for years to come.

Excited to lay your new natural grass lawn, school oval or sports field? If you know what variety you like and have determined the quantity required, send us a message for a free quote, and we’ll be in touch shortly.

Natural Grass Installation FAQs

What are the pros and cons of natural turf vs artificial grass?

The benefits of natural turf far outweigh synthetic turf. Natural turf offers an eco-friendly, cool-to-touch and aesthetically pleasing option. However, it requires regular upkeep. Artificial lawn is low-maintenance but may have environmental drawbacks. Also, synthetic turf installation is much more costly than laying real grass.

How long does it take to install a lawn?

Installing a lawn typically takes place within a day of receiving your instant turf order, depending on the size of the area and preparation involved. However, root establishment for natural grass takes 2–3 weeks.

For additional advice, don’t hesitate to contact our experts. As leading natural turf suppliers to Melbourne and Victoria, we can give you the advice you need when only the best results will do.

October 9, 2025/by Aaron Mahoney