Here we look at whether to chose real grass or an artificial lawn. We all love to see lots of colour in our gardens and a large patch of green grass looks good and provides a great space for relaxing and playing as a family. A new lawn can really transform a tired space. But should we choose real grass or an artificial lawn? Both look good but when deciding what to choose you need to consider what the area will be used for, what the area is like for growing a real lawn, and how much time you have to look after the space. Since it was invented in the 1960’s artificial grass has become more and more popular and here we look at the good and bad points for both real and artificial lawns.
Real Grass
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Real grass is better for the environment and produces oxygen. It is decomposable and the grass clippings can be used as compost.
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It encourages insects and wildlife into your garden.
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There are a large choice of grasses available and you can choose the right one to suit the type of garden you have.
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It will require more maintenance than an artificial lawn as it will need to be mowed regularly to keep the grass level down. However many people find it very therapeutic being out in their garden mowing the lawn so this could be good for keeping your stress levels down and finding the time for some peace and quiet. My husband loves putting stripes in our lawn!
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To looks its best it will require long term maintenance with plant feeds at certain times during the year and weeding.
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If you need to re-turf a small area it is easier to dig up parts of the turf and replace it with fresh patches. Artificial grass is more difficult to replace.
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It is more cost effective to install than an artificial lawn. However you will need to purchase a lawn mower.
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You can’t beat the smell of a freshly cut lawn and the grass is soft to touch.
Artificial Lawn
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Not as good for encouraging wildlife in our gardens.
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More expensive to install than a natural lawn.
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There is lots of variety in price and quality of materials to choose from. The level of quality has dramatically improved since the days of artificial lawns that looked like they came from the greengrocer stands.
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Works well in shady areas that sometimes do not allow a lawn to grow its best. Artificial lawns are popular for small spaces and gardens that get lots of wear and tear. Personally, I find they seem to be particularly popular with families with budding footballers.
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There is very little maintenance required. It will need to be swept and rinsed occasionally to remove dust and odours.
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An artificial lawn doesn’t require the level of water consumption that a real lawn does, particularly helpful when the summer is hot and we there is a water ban in place.
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This lawn can cope with lots of foot traffic with very little wear and tear. In the winter you don’t have to worry about muddy footprints from walking on your lawn.
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Not so soft to the touch and they can store heat.
