With such a plethora of turf farmers and suppliers to choose from on the Sunshine Coast, it can be tricky to figure out which one to choose for your specific project. To aid in this search there are a few questions that are worth asking, particularly if you intend to invest a decent amount of money in your new lawn.
Here is a handy list of questions that you could use as a guide to help you pick a turf supplier or farmer on the Sunshine Coast. As you chat you might think of something else you’d like to know and remember it’s their job to make sure all your questions or queries are answered.
5 questions to ask a turf supplier
1. Is the turf grown locally?
If you want a warm season grass that can handle the Sunshine Coast’s humid climate and the occasional dry spell, make sure you ask if the turf you’re considering buying has been grown on the Sunshine Coast.
Better yet, ask the farmer or supplier if you can visit the farm and check out the grass for yourself. Not only will this give you an idea of how it looks once it’s established, but you’ll know it’s been grown especially for the Sunshine Coast climate.
Most turf growers will offer this service and be happy to give you a tour of their property; it’s the perfect time to inspect the quality of your future lawn. Paddocks should be basically weed-free and a lush green colour.
2. Does the turf get cut on the day of delivery?
This is a very important question because what you’re after is a Sunshine Coast turf farmer who cuts to order. This means they don’t have slabs of turf languishing on a pallet and instead they cut your turf once you’ve ordered and paid for it.
In the summer months cut turf can dry up very quickly if left without water, so also ask a supplier their harvesting process. Preferably it should be cut on the morning it is to be delivered and then put straight on a truck and delivered promptly to your property.
During the cooler winter months it’s acceptable and often common practise for most farmers to cut turf late in the afternoon for an early morning delivery. But this is not the case in the warmer months, so be sure to check the turf you’re about to buy is cut to order.
3. Will someone unload the turf for you?
Reputable turf farmers on the Sunshine Coast will deliver the turf to your backyard; those with an emphasis on customer service may even offer an installation service. Let the supplier know what your access is like so you can make sure their truck will be able to get to where you want your new lawn to be.
Also check if you are able to collect the turf from the supplier once you’ve paid for it. This might be a service you’d like if you live close to the farmer and/or you only need a small amount of turf. Again, it’s a good chance to meet the team who grew your new lawn and get some maintenance advice.
As for the installation service, check that the team who are about to put down your grass are experienced and happy to keep you involved in the laying of your turf. Most outfits should have a decent-sized crew and should be able to get an average-sized back and front yard installed within a few hours.
4. Ask if they offer any guarantees?
What you need to find out is whether the turf supplier is happy to guarantee that the grass will arrive at your place in the same quality it left their farm. Keep in mind that once you are in receipt of the lawn it must be installed immediately in order to give it the best chance to establish quickly.
When trying to choose a Sunshine Coast turf supplier, ask if they will guarantee their installation service, if you intend to use it. It might also pay to see what follow-up or after-sales service they provide. Least of all they should make a phone call to see how your turf is going and even send you a few emails advising you on the best way to water your new lawn.
1. Are they a member of Turf Australia?
You may or may not be aware that the turf industry in Australia has a representative body; Turf Australia. The mission of this organisation is to lead the turf industry, and those Sunshine Coast growers who are members have made a conscious decision to be kept up-to-date with relevant news in regards to turf research and development.
As members they have signalled their intention to invest in the future of the turf industry and have shown their commitment to its growth and sustainability. As growers they are given the latest information to ensure they grow the best turf possible, which mean the grass they grow and sell to you is of the highest quality.
Sure it’s not something that is compulsory for all suppliers or growers, but it may signal they are serious about investing in their livelihood and are in it for the long haul.
Remember: Biggest isn’t always best, there are plenty of small and medium-sized farmers that focus on producing the best turf, not the most turf.
By the time you’ve asked these questions you’ll no doubt have a feel for whether this Sunshine Coast turf supplier or farmer is right for you and your project. Keep in mind it’s a competitive industry, so be sure to ring around a few suppliers and compare prices and ask if they will price match.