Deciding between real grass or artificial grass for your lawn or landscape can be a big decision. Both have their pros and cons, and there are several factors you need to consider before choosing one over the other. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences, costs, maintenance requirements, environmental impacts, and other considerations to help you determine which option may work best for your needs.
Real Grass vs Artificial Grass
Real Grass :
Real grass provides a lush, natural look and feel that synthetic turf simply can’t replicate. There are several types of grass suitable for lawns and landscaping, with qualities that vary in terms of climate tolerance, durability, texture, and color. Warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Zoysia work well in hot climates, while cool-season favorites include Kentucky Bluegrass, Ryegrass, and Fescues.
Some benefits of real grass include:
- Natural appearance and soft feel underfoot
- Produces oxygen and cools air temperatures
- Traps dust, dirt, and other pollutants
- No heat hazard since it doesn’t get as hot as artificial turf on sunny days
- Safe surface for children and pets to play on
However, real grass also requires more intensive maintenance compared to synthetic lawns. Here are some of the main requirements:
- Watering: Grass needs about 1 inch of water per week from rain or irrigation during growing seasons. Drought-tolerant varieties require less.
- Mowing: Grass grows continuously so regular mowing is essential during the growing season. Mowing height varies by grass type.
- Fertilizing: Applying fertilizer 2-4 times per year provides nutrition for healthy growth. Organic or synthetic fertilizers can be used.
- Seeding: Over time, grass can thin out and bare spots may form. Overseeding repairs patches so they fill back in.
- Weed and pest control: Weeds, insects, diseases, and other pests may need occasional spot treatments or preventative applications.
Artificial Grass/Synthetic Turf :
Modern artificial grass has come a long way from shiny green astroturf. There are now several types designed specifically for residential and commercial lawns and landscaping. There are some pros and cons of artificial grass that you should think about when choosing if it matches your needs . Benefits of synthetic turf include:
- Very low maintenance compared to real grass
- Retains green color with no watering, mowing, or other care needed
- Doesn’t need fertilizer, pesticides, or herbicides
- Withstands heavy foot traffic with no wear and tear
- No dirt, mud, or allergens
- Can be installed on difficult sites and terrains
- Safe for children and pets
- Cost savings over the lifetime of the product
Synthetic lawns are made of polyethylene or polyurethane blades attached to a permeable backing. Some systems incorporate infills like sand or rubber for additional support and realism. High-quality artificial grass mimics real grass very convincingly in terms of color, texture, and even sheen.
However, there are some downsides to weigh as well when considering fake grass:
- Higher upfront installation cost
- Can get extremely hot in direct sunlight
- Doesn’t provide the same softness underfoot
- Rainwater runoff issues may need addressing
- Cannot match a natural grass appearance
- Possible heat hazard for pets and kids if too hot
- Does not produce oxygen or trap pollution and dust
Another consideration is recycling or reuse if replacing an artificial lawn in the future – options for this are currently limited with most synthetic turf ending up in landfills.
Read more : The Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass
Price Comparison of Real Grass Vs Artificial Grass
Over about 15-20 years, fake grass tends to be less expensive than taking care of a real lawn of the same size. But, real grass is better for the environment and stays useful longer, while artificial grass becomes less useful and needs to be replaced.
Artificial grass costs about 25.7-47.7 dirhams for each square foot when you first put it in, compared to 3.3 dirhams for each square foot to plant new natural grass. Every year, looking after real grass costs about 734 dirhams for every 1,000 square feet.
For a 5,000-square-foot lawn in the suburbs, putting in artificial grass would cost 128,500-239,500 dirhams, while planting new natural grass would cost about 16,500 dirhams. Every year, taking care of this natural grass would cost about 3,670 dirhams for usual things like cutting and watering.
After 15-20 years, the real grass would cost about 55,050-73,400 dirhams in total for upkeep, while the artificial grass would probably need to be replaced, costing another 128,500-239,500 dirhams, plus extra for taking it out and getting rid of it.
Environmental Impact of Real Grass Vs Artificial Grass
In terms of how they affect the earth, real grass is usually seen as better than synthetic lawns made from plastic. Live grass takes in carbon dioxide and gives off oxygen. It also cleans the air and water and gives birds, bees, and other animals a natural place to live. Also, fake fields add to plastic pollution and trash in landfills; they keep heat in, reflect sunlight, and aren’t good for the environment.
But grass lawns in dry conditions or areas that are prone to drought may need a lot of watering, which has effects on the environment. Some high-quality fake grass has holes in it so that rainwater can pass through and drain away naturally. Some problems can be fixed with these features, along with base prep and surface shaping, which can make fake grass more environmentally friendly than real grass that needs a lot of water.
Which Option Is Right for You?
If affordability over time is your main priority, then artificial grass can provide substantial cost savings compared to natural lawn care and upkeep. Just make sure to factor in potential replacement costs every 15-20 years when making longevity comparisons.
Homeowners who value rich green spaces offering environmental benefits are likely better served by real grass. But responsible water usage is key for eco-friendly lawns, especially in drought-prone regions. Consider low-water grasses or high-efficiency irrigation to balance practical yard care and sustainability.
For families with kids and pets or homeowners who simply prefer an authentic grass look and feel, investing the time and resources in caring for a real lawn pays dividends that synthetic alternatives have yet to match.
Conclusion
Choose real grass or artificial turf based on price, lifestyle, environmental impact, and maintenance needs. Some people use a mix of real and fake grass in places like batting cages, putting greens, and dog runs while still keeping real lawns for the benefit of each. In the end, there isn’t a single best option.
Finding the right balance for your home depends on how your goals and the realities of life match up. But knowing these important differences gives you the environmental information you need to choose the right grass.
