As a company that supplies both real and artificial turf we thought we would give you some information regarding the choice of your next lawn.
When it comes to choosing the best type of grass for your lawn, there’s a lot to consider. On one hand, you have the timeless appeal of real grass—its vibrant colour, fresh scent, and environmental benefits. On the other hand, there’s the convenience of artificial grass—low-maintenance, always green, and perfect for problem areas. But which one is truly the best option? It’s not so simple, and often, the answer depends on your needs.
Let’s dive into why real grass still reigns supreme in many ways, while acknowledging how artificial grass solves some practical challenges that real grass can’t always handle.
1. Natural Beauty & Appeal: Real Grass Shines, Artificial Grass Imitates
There’s no denying that real grass has an unmatched beauty. The rich shades of green, the way it sways in the breeze, and the depth of texture it provides are things artificial turf can’t fully replicate. Real grass changes with the seasons, offering a dynamic, living element to your landscape. Whether it’s the soft, cool green of spring or the golden hues of fall, real grass brings a vibrancy that no synthetic surface can quite match.
However, for people living in areas with extreme weather conditions or places where growing natural grass is a struggle, artificial grass provides a practical solution. It remains consistently green throughout the year, regardless of whether it’s scorching hot or freezing cold outside. This makes it ideal for regions with droughts or harsh winters, where keeping real grass alive can be a constant battle.
2. The Fresh Scent & Feel: Nothing Beats the Real Thing
The smell of freshly cut grass after a rainstorm or the feel of soft grass underfoot—these sensory experiences are hard to top. Real grass offers not only visual appeal but also that unmistakable earthy scent that instantly transports you to a place of relaxation and calm.
That said, one of the challenges with real grass is that it requires constant upkeep to maintain its beauty—especially during dry spells, long summers, or in high-traffic areas. Artificial grass solves this by providing a consistently pristine look without the maintenance.
It doesn’t need watering, mowing, or fertilizing, which makes it a great option for busy homeowners or places with water restrictions.
3. Environmental Impact: The Best of Both Worlds
Real grass plays an important role in the ecosystem. It absorbs carbon dioxide, prevents soil erosion, and supports local wildlife. Plus, it helps with water infiltration, reducing runoff and replenishing the groundwater supply. A healthy lawn also cools the environment by absorbing heat.
However, the environmental downside of real grass is the water it consumes, especially in drought-prone areas, and the energy required for lawn maintenance (think mowing, fertilizing, and watering). Artificial grass addresses this issue by eliminating the need for water and significantly reducing maintenance, making it a viable option in places where conserving water is a priority.
That said, some new forms of synthetic turf are now being designed with sustainability in mind, using recyclable materials and infills that are friendlier to the environment.
4. Comfort & Use: Soft and Inviting vs. Low-Maintenance
Real grass is naturally soft and comfortable, making it the ideal surface for outdoor play, relaxing, and gardening. It’s cool in the summer, provides a cushion for falls, and is perfect for lounging barefoot on a warm day. The texture and feeling of real grass just can’t be matched by any synthetic material.
But, real grass requires work to keep it in top shape. It can become patchy, get worn down in high-traffic areas, and often requires re-seeding, especially in shaded spots. That’s where artificial grass comes in as a great solution. For spaces like playgrounds, sports fields, or areas with heavy foot traffic, artificial grass provides a durable surface that won’t wear out and doesn’t require watering or reseeding.
5. Year-Round Lawn: Artificial Grass Solves Seasonal Challenges
Real grass has the beauty of changing with the seasons, but it also faces challenges. During extreme heat, drought, or cold, natural grass can go dormant, brown, or even die. In places where growing grass is difficult due to climate, artificial turf offers a consistent green appearance all year round, no matter what the weather is like.
For homeowners in arid climates or areas with unpredictable weather, synthetic grass can be a great solution to ensure your lawn always looks perfect—without the stress of watering, fertilizing, or worrying about the next cold snap.
6. Maintenance & Cost: The Trade off
Real grass requires regular mowing, watering, and sometimes fertilizing to keep it looking its best. While it’s wonderful to have that natural, living lawn, it also comes with a certain level of commitment. For those who don’t have the time, energy, or inclination to take care of a lawn, artificial grass can offer a hands-off solution. It’s perfect for people who want a beautiful, low-maintenance lawn without the hassle of upkeep.
The upfront cost of artificial grass can be high, but over time, it can save you money on water bills, lawn care services, and fertilizers.
7. Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, both real grass and artificial grass have their strengths and weaknesses. If you’re someone who values the connection to nature, the look, feel, and scent of a real lawn, and you’re up for the maintenance, real grass is hard to beat. It’s alive, dynamic, and connected to the environment in ways that no synthetic material can match.
However, if you live in an area where water conservation is crucial, struggle with extreme weather, or need a low-maintenance option that still looks great year-round, artificial grass offers a practical and environmentally friendly solution.
In the end, it’s not about one being better than the other—it’s about finding the balance that works for you, your lifestyle, and your space.
