When looking for a hardy, low-maintenance lawn, you may come across Wintergreen and Couch grass. But are they the same? Many homeowners and landscapers use these terms interchangeably, but there are key differences to consider.
This article will explore the characteristics of Wintergreen Couch grass, its benefits, costs, and the price of professional laying services.
Is Wintergreen the Same as Couch?
The short answer is yes, Wintergreen is a type of Couch grass, but not all Couch grasses are Wintergreen. Let’s break it down:
What is Couch Grass?
Couch grass (Cynodon dactylon) is a warm-season grass known for its durability, quick growth, and ability to thrive in various conditions. It is popular in Australia due to its resistance to wear and tear, making it ideal for sports fields, parks, and home lawns. Couch grass spreads through stolons (above-ground runners) and rhizomes (underground stems), allowing it to recover quickly from damage.
What is Wintergreen Couch Grass?
Wintergreen Couch is a specific variety of Couch grass that has been selectively bred for improved characteristics. It features:
- Finer leaves: Compared to traditional Couch, Wintergreen has a finer and softer texture.
- Dark green colour: It maintains a lush green colour for longer, even during colder months.
- Good drought tolerance: It requires less water than other grass types.
- Fast self-repairing ability: Ideal for high-traffic areas such as backyards, golf courses, and playgrounds.
Key Differences Between Wintergreen and Other Couch Grasses
| Feature | Wintergreen Couch | Standard Couch |
|---|---|---|
| Leaf Texture | Fine and soft | Coarse to medium |
| Colour | Dark green year-round | Can fade in winter |
| Growth Rate | Fast but manageable | Very fast, can become invasive |
| Drought Resistance | High | High |
| Wear Recovery | Excellent | Good |
| Maintenance | Moderate | High |
While both are Couch grasses, Wintergreen is a superior variety that requires slightly less maintenance while maintaining a high-quality appearance.
Why Choose Wintergreen Couch Grass?
Wintergreen Couch grass is one of the most popular turf choices in Australia due to its combination of durability, aesthetics, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s why it might be the right choice for you:
1. Excellent Wear Resistance
If you have kids, pets, or frequent foot traffic in your yard, Wintergreen will recover quickly from damage.
2. Drought Tolerance
Given Australia’s hot climate and occasional water restrictions, Wintergreen is a great choice because it requires less water than other turf varieties.
3. Attractive Year-Round Appearance
Unlike other warm-season grasses that may turn yellow or brown in winter, Wintergreen maintains a rich green colour for longer.
4. Low to Moderate Maintenance
While it does require occasional mowing and fertilisation, Wintergreen is easier to maintain than traditional Couch varieties.
5. Budget-Friendly
Compared to other premium turf varieties like Buffalo or Kikuyu, Wintergreen Couch is an affordable option that still offers great performance.
How Much is Wintergreen Couch Grass?
The cost of Wintergreen Couch grass varies depending on factors such as supplier, location, and order size. On average, you can expect to pay:
- Per square metre (m²): $7 to $12
- Per pallet (50m² to 60m²): $350 to $720
These prices may fluctuate depending on your supplier, delivery fees, and bulk discounts.
Additional Costs to Consider
- Delivery Fee: Some suppliers charge extra for delivery, usually $50–$150 depending on distance.
- Fertiliser and Soil Preparation: Preparing the soil before laying new turf is essential. Expect to pay around $100–$300 for soil amendments and fertiliser.
- Ongoing Maintenance: While Wintergreen is low-maintenance, it still requires mowing, fertilising, and occasional dethatching.
How Much Does Wintergreen Couch Laying Service Cost?
If you prefer to have professionals install your new lawn, you’ll need to factor in labour costs. The cost of turf-laying services depends on factors like site preparation, accessibility, and location.
Turf Laying Costs in Australia
- Basic Turf Laying (no prep): $5–$10 per m²
- Turf Laying with Soil Preparation: $10–$20 per m²
- Full Installation (including removal of old grass, soil prep, and laying): $20–$30 per m²
Total Estimated Cost for 50m² to 100m² Lawn
| Service | Cost Per m² | 50m² Total | 100m² Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wintergreen | $7 – $12 | $350 – $600 | $700 – $1,200 |
| Basic Laying | $5 – $10 | $250 – $500 | $500 – $1,000 |
| Full Installation | $20 – $30 | $1,000 – $1,500 | $2,000 – $3,000 |
| Estimated Grand Total | $12 – $42 per m² | $600 – $2,100 | $1,200 – $4,200 |
Factors That Affect Installation Costs
- Site Preparation: If your site requires old grass removal or levelling, expect to pay more.
- Location: Prices may vary based on your region in Australia.
- Access to the Site: If landscapers need special equipment for hard-to-reach areas, costs may increase.
- Additional Services: Some installers offer irrigation installation and fertilisation at extra costs.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: Which One is Better?
DIY Turf Laying
Pros:
- Cost-effective – Saves on labour costs.
- Flexible timing – You can lay the turf at your own pace.
Cons:
- Physically demanding – Turf rolls are heavy, and preparation is labour-intensive.
- Risk of mistakes – Improper installation can lead to patchy or uneven growth.
Professional Turf Laying
Pros:
- Expertise – Ensures a level, well-prepared surface.
- Saves time and effort – Professionals can complete the job quickly.
- Better long-term results – Proper installation improves lawn health.
Cons:
- More expensive – Labour costs add to the total price.
If you’re installing turf for a small area, DIY might be a good option. However, for larger lawns or if you want a professional finish, hiring experts like A View Turf is recommended.
Final Thoughts
Wintergreen Couch grass is a fantastic choice for Australian lawns due to its resilience, affordability, and year-round green colour. While it is a type of Couch grass, it offers finer leaves, better colour retention, and lower maintenance compared to standard Couch varieties.
When budgeting for a new lawn, consider the cost of Wintergreen Couch ($7–$12 per m²) plus laying service ($5–$30 per m²). Whether you choose to install it yourself or hire professionals, proper soil preparation and ongoing maintenance will ensure a lush and long-lasting lawn.
Remember, hiring a professional Wintergreen Couch laying service like A View Turf is not only safe your time and effort but also minimises the chance of mistake, and makes your lawn as close to perfection as possible!