NATURAL GRASS VS ARTIFICIAL TURF

4 January 2021

The grass is always greener on the other side, but is that natural or artificial turf you’re eyeing over there?

When it comes to picking out your garden greenery, there are benefits – and drawbacks – to each option that you need to consider. We all know a beautiful outdoor space with a tidy lawn is the perfect finish to a home, but everyone’s needs and constraints are different. Plus, buying and installing the wrong turf can be costly and time-consuming – not to mention a waste of perfectly good resources.

Whether you decide to go Astro or lay some down-to-earth soil and grass on your personal plot, we’re here with all the info to help you find your perfect turf. Firstly, there are some environmental benefits to choosing artificial. Obviously, no watering or pesticide chemicals are required to keep it looking lush, and you also don’t have to burn through fossil fuels with the lawnmower on regular basis. Also, there are varieties of artificial turf that make use of recycled materials – a definite plus.

However, that doesn’t mean it’s the ‘greener’ option. This grass comes with a high carbon footprint, particularly from manufacturing and long-distance transport, and because it isn’t a living plant it does not reduce carbon, filter sediment or help provide a habitat for garden wildlife.

Artificial turf can also affect the environment around it: water run-off can send heavy metals and synthetic residue into the storm drains and a synthetic lawn actually raises the ambient temperature by absorbing and radiating heat, unlike real turf. And that water you save not having to keep it lush? Keep in mind you still have to clean it somehow. Finally, for disposal, this turf will usually end up in landfills, which isn’t very environmentally sustainable.

Even though natural turf requires regular watering and maintenance, there are clear benefits to the surrounding environment, as it improves soil quality and biodiversity. You still have to be careful with chemical runoff from herbicides and pesticides, but this can be controlled with some sound knowledge of turf management. Over the life cycle of natural turf, there is a lower carbon footprint, and even a ‘carbon sink’ removing CO2 from the atmosphere.

With the right information, you can find turf to fit your lifestyle. All Turf Solutions does not supply or install artificial turf, but if you decide that option works best for you then we are more than happy to refer you to one of our recommended contractors.

Give us a call on 1800ALLTURF for more information.