Why Turf Shrinks
When turf is laid, the rolls are butted tightly together to create a seamless green carpet. If, a few days later, gaps begin to appear between the strips, it means the turf rolls are physically shrinking. This happens for one reason: a lack of water.
As the soil base of the turf dries out in the sun, it contracts, pulling the edges away from each other and exposing the topsoil beneath. This not only looks terrible, but it allows hot air to reach the delicate roots at the edge of the roll, killing them quickly.
The Two-Step Fix
- 1. Rehydrate Immediately: You must heavily soak the lawn. Often, returning the turf to a fully hydrated state will cause the soil base to expand back to its normal size, closing the gaps naturally over a few days.
- 2. Top-Dress the Cracks: If the gaps are severe and do not close, you must protect the exposed roots. Take a fine, screened topsoil or compost and sweep it directly into the cracks until they are flush with the grass. This acts as a protective blanket, stopping the roots from drying out and allowing the grass to naturally grow over the gap.