There is a wide variety of turf types available; your choice will mainly depend on the quality of lawn you require and the amount of your budget. Always buy turf from a reputable garden centre or turf farm, and if possible, inspect it before buying it to make sure that it is in good condition, of the right quality for your purposes, and that the soil is a free-draining loam rather than a heavy clay. You should also ensure that it is free from weeds, pests, or diseases, and that there is not an excessive amount of thatch.

Sea Marsh Turf

Sea marsh turf, containing fine fescues and bents, was once thought of as the best turf available. However, as it frequently grows in river estuaries, it often contains a silty layer, which restricts drainage, thus reducing its durability. Purpose-grown turf (see below), containing new cultivars of fine fescues and bents, is now preferred, as it is usually grown on better soil and is readily available.

Meadow Turf

This turf is less fine in texture than purpose grown turf, as it is typically grown for agricultural purposes. It is usually the cheapest turf, as it may contain coarse, vigorous, agricultural grasses and broad-leaved weeds such as daisies (Bellis perennis); however, quality can vary greatly. For this reason, it is especially important to buy meadow turf from a reputable supplier to make sure that it is of reasonable quality. If the weeds are eliminated by the use of selective weedkillers, the improved turf is described as treated meadow turf. Lawns established with meadow turf may need more frequent mowing and have a coarse appearance, but are usually perfectly adequate for family or utility use.

Purpose Grown Turf

This widely available turf is raised from the newest grass cultivars and treated to make it free from disease and weeds. It can contain different grasses for various uses, and may even be prepared to your own specifications; however, this can take up to 18 months to be grown and harvested.