For many gardens a natural lawn is the norm. In fact, achieving the perfect weed free, tram-lined patch of green is a serious pass time for many a gardener. But there are times when a grass lawn just doesn’t cut it. In areas of heavy wear and tear, shade or drought, natural lawns lose their lustre and can turn into bare, dry patches that spoil the overall look of your garden.
The good news is that a hard wearing, good looking alternative might just be better than the real thing. The trend of swapping real lawns for artificial grass is fast becoming popular with homes who want all the advantages of having a lawn, without the constant care and attention they demand.
So if you’re keen to ditch the weekly chore of cutting the grass or give the kids somewhere they can play without a care, maybe it’s time to consider if an artificial lawn will work for you. To help make your decision, here is why we recommend using artificial grass to create a ready to use all year-round lawn.
1. Low maintenance
Mowing the lawn is one of the most regular chores in the garden and can take up to a couple of hours each week. With an artificial lawn there is no need to mow, giving you back this time to do with as you please. With no mowing, there are also no grass clippings to dispose of either. In addition, those who are finding it difficult to use a mower for reasons of age or infirmity will find an artificial lawn much easier to maintain.
If you like your lawn to have the appearance of a pristine, weed free bowling green, an artificial lawn will free you from the task of regularly applying lawn fertiliser or weed killer.
It will occasionally need cleaning however, especially under trees and if you have a dog. Using a rake, a brush or a leaf blower and a hose pipe will allow you deal with most eventualities.
2. Hard wearing
Manufactured from a mixture of hard-wearing fibres, such as polypropylene, polythene and nylon, an artificial lawn can take a lot of wear and tear from pets and children. Brown patches caused by dog pee and scuffs to the turf by keen young footballer are no longer a problem as they are with a real lawn. You also don’t have to worry about it fading in the sun either.
The hard-wearing nature of artificial turf really comes into its own for children’s play areas which often develop bald patches where grass refuses to grow. Or areas around swimming pools, patios and outdoor kitchens and BBQs that get a lot of footfall during the year.
3. Environmentally friendly
A study by researches from Sweden estimates that one hour spent mowing the lawn creates as much pollution as driving a car for 100 miles, something you won’t have to do with your artificial lawn.
Fertilisers and pesticides used on grass lawns can also pollute the environment and pose a hazard to people, pets and resident wildlife. Artificial grass does not require these chemicals and so avoids the risks associated with run off spreading chemicals.
4. Free from weeds and pests
You can have a weed free lawn without having to resort to weed killer. Artificial lawns do not grow moss. Nor do you get mole hills (or, as in the case in my garden, rabbit holes).
Brown areas caused be dead and dying grass are also a thing of the past. And you don’t get fairy ring toadstools either.
5. Drought and flood tolerant
Beat the hosepipe ban – no watering is required with artificial turf (unless you are hosing it down to clean it).
On the flip side, you don’t get muddy puddles either. Artificial grass is permeable, with rows of holes in the backing allowing rain to soak through into the ground below, and so avoids run-off.
This makes artificial turf a good solution for swimming pool surrounds. Water splashed on to an artificial lawn will not create muddy areas, so there is no mud to get back into the pool.
6. Long life expectancy
Artificial grass is long lasting and durable and can come with a warranty from eight to 15 years, but may last considerably longer, depending on use.
A few things to consider with artificial turf
RECYLING
Some artificial grass is made from recycled plastic. However, when the artificial turf comes to the end of its life, it could end up in landfill. A few manufacturers have developed ways to separate the plastic grass from its backing, which could allow the turf to be recycled.
COST
Artificial grass is more costly to install than real grass, being comparable to the cost of an actual carpet. However, there are some long-term savings to be had. You won’t need a lawnmower, or any fertiliser or pesticides. The price also compares well with paving, which is another alternative you could consider.
DIY INSTALLATION
You could try laying it yourself, but there are some pitfalls to be aware of:
- Make sure you get the right type of grass for your application.
- Make sure you buy the correct amount. If you purchase too little, you may have trouble matching the grass if you go back for more.
- Get the drainage right. Otherwise you may find that rainwater fails to drain away.
- Make sure the area to be ‘turfed’ is flat and has a suitable base to take the turf.
- Make sure the sections of artificial turf butt closely together. If you can see the joins afterwards, it is a bit of a giveaway.
- Make sure you secure it firmly. We don’t want your new lawn blowing away.
You could try laying it yourself, but if you want a perfectly level lawn and a good-quality finish, it’s probably best to employ a specialist to fit it for you.
To help you decide which type of artificial turf is best for you, why not contact Thames Valley Landscapes for professional advice. We can help you select your ideal lawn and handle all aspect of installation before leaving you with after care advice. Please get in touch with us on 01628 629720 or email ask@thamesvalleylandscapes.co.uk
