Japanese knotweed: how do you get rid of it?
Why Japanese knotweed is so persistent, what Belgian law has said since 2025 and the methods that really work in a garden.
Sowing grass seed or laying turf?
A great lawn is mostly decided before the first seed goes down: in preparing the soil and choosing the right moment. Seed or turf, each option has its strengths. Here is how to choose.
When should you sow grass in Belgium?
- From mid-August to late September: the best time. The soil is still warm, the rain returns and weeds grow less.
- From April to May, when the soil is above about 10 °C.
- Avoid: summer heatwaves and periods of frost.
Seed or turf: which to choose?
- Seed costs considerably less and lets you choose a specific mix: shade, children’s play or ornamental lawn. Allow several weeks before you can walk on it.
- Turf gives you a green lawn in a day and leaves little room for weeds. It costs more and must be laid within 24 hours of delivery.
- Turf can be laid almost all year round, except in frost or high heat.
Preparing the soil: the decisive step
- Remove the old lawn, stones and roots.
- Loosen the soil to a depth of 15 to 20 cm and, if needed, enrich it with topsoil or compost.
- Level carefully, then firm lightly with a roller to avoid hollows.
- Leave it to settle for a few days and remove any weeds that come up.
Getting off to a good start
- Seed: spread the seed in two passes at right angles, rake it in lightly, then roll.
- Turf: lay the rolls in a staggered pattern, tightly butted together, then roll to ensure good contact with the soil.
- Water with a fine spray, every day in dry weather, until the lawn is well established.
- First mow when the grass reaches 8 to 10 cm, cutting off only the top third.
What next?
A new lawn mainly needs regular care: frequent mowing, watering in dry spells and a fertiliser suited to the season. Automatic irrigation makes the first few weeks much easier. We can create your lawn from start to finish, from soil preparation to the first mow.
