Click here for important information regarding Mandatory Water Restrictions in Sydney
To ensure that the roots develop a deep root system well it is better to apply one deep watering in lieu of frequent shallow watering. Water requirements for an established lawn are considerably less than what is required during the establishment period, particularly with Sir Walter as it has one of the lowest water requirements for any turf grass. In an average Sydney summer you should apply 2 - 3 deep waterings a week and 1 per week in winter depending on conditions. Once the lawn is fully established in about 12 months, one deep watering of 15mm in summer should be sufficient each week - use a plastic container or rain gauge under the sprinkler to estimate how long it takes the sprinkler to apply 15mm. Avoid watering in the evening and at night as the lawn will remain wet and this can encourage fungus and disease - the best time to water is early morning when less water will be lost through evaporation. Sydney Water has authorised Drip Irrigation Systems to be used during the current Water Crisis. Drip Irrigation can be installed under lawns and the following important points should be considered:
Further details about drip irrigation systems can be found by contacting Hawkesbury Valley Irrigation on 02 4577 6222. Mowing
The turf roots should have established in about 14 days in warmer weather and the turf cannot be easily lifted -the first mow should be left until the grass blade length is about 60 -70mm in length. Mow along the turf rolls until you are satisfied that the lawn has established and then for subsequent mowings vary the cutting direction to promote evenness. Make sure your mower blades are sharp to provide a clean even cut. The general rule of thumb for mowing is never to remove any more than a third of the blade length in any single mowing. The optimum mowing height for Sir Walter is between 25 - 40mm and should be left at approx. 50mm in shady areas. In winter it is advisable to increase the mowing height another 10 -15mm.
Fertilising
Correct fertiliser recommendations vary depending on climate, region and soil type. Generally a slow released balanced NPK lawn food is best, such as Premium Buffalo Blend that is available from most Sir Walter suppliers. The cost of 10kg of Premium Buffalo Blend is $35.00. This quantity will treat up to 400 m² of lawn area, or contact your local nursery for their recommended equivalent. Dynamic Lifter, Shirleys No. 17 etc. are also suitable. It is easy to spread fertiliser by hand but you can buy a mini spreader from the hardware store or nursery for around $25.00.
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Prior
to laying, the soil should be fertilized and again two weeks after
installing, then every eight weeks for the first twelve months.
Once established, apply fertiliser early spring, early summer and
mid autumn. The autumn fertilising is essential for the lawn to
stay greener through winter. 
