Six weeks ago Don planted a new lawn. Part of the lawn was planted with cell-grown grass, and the rest was sown with runners. In our segment Don checked on the progress of the two lawn areas. Both areas were sown with a shade-tolerant variety of soft buffalo called ‘Palmetto’. ‘Palmetto’ is also frost-tolerant and it holds its colour in winter. It grows in most areas of Australia, but it is a particularly good choice in coastal and temperate areas. ‘Palmetto’ was developed in the United States and is widely grown there in warmer areas such as Florida.
Viro-cells
Advanced grass plants with well-developed root systems are now sold in cells – a bit like egg cartons. Each pack contains around 100 plants, and there are many different lawn types available. Don planted ‘Palmetto’ Viro-Cells about 30cm (12″) apart, but for quicker coverage they can be planted closer together.
Runners
The runners Don planted were taken from a roll of turf, which had been soaked in water so it would pull apart easily. This is a very cost effective way of planting a new lawn.
Further information
Viro-Cells are available at nurseries or from turf suppliers. Cost: $22.50 per pack (contains about 100 plants). 100 plants planted 30cm apart will cover around 7 square metres.
‘Palmetto’ turf costs from $6/m2.