When we talk about real, authentic grass, we’re referring to grass grown directly from seeds or sod. Meanwhile, artificial turf is the synthetic grass that’s often used for sports fields.
As fake artificial grass has risen in popularity, debates between the two turf types — the so-called “turf wars” — have been raging for years.
Although the concept of grass that remains perfectly green all-year-long is appealing, more and more businesses and homeowners are realizing that their decision to go artificial brought along some less-than-ideal consequences.
To save you the trouble of learning this the hard way, we’ve put together a list of 8 genuine benefits of a natural, authentic lawn:
Less expensive.
We’re not talking about an inconsequential difference of a couple dollars per square foot. No…artificial turf rates can climb up to $30 per square foot — 10 or 11 times higher than a square of real grass. If you’re planning to spread the turf across a large lawn, this adds up pretty quickly.
Better temperature control.
Fake turf gets hot! After all, it is made out of plastic. Overheated grass is not just uncomfortable. In the heat of summer, artificial grass can become a danger to pets and kids playing outside.
All natural.
While true grass is a natural part of the environment, artificial turf is frankly just not supposed to be there.
- It won’t develop roots to secure it to the ground.
- It will cause major drainage problems across your lawn.
- And it’s NOT biodegradable. Once your fake grass wears down after 10 to 15 years, it’ll inevitably end up in some landfill.
Plus, there is such a thing as grass that looks TOO perfect. There’s no getting around it — artificial grass just looks…well…unreal.
Absorbs water & animal waste.
Artificial turf cannot absorb liquid like the natural ground can. In fact, to ensure proper drainage across a turf lawn or field, you’d have to purchase and install a quality piping system. See how the initial cost can build!
And don’t forget about your pets! Because fake turf cannot absorb urine, you can expect regular shoe-ruining surprises as you make your way across your lawn..
Better for the environment.
Not only is artificial turf nonbiodegradable, but it doesn’t come with the same environmental and ecological benefits provided by real grass.
Authentic grass and the soil underneath act kind of like a sponge, absorbing and breaking down impurities from the air and water (like carbon dioxide, dust, pollen, and other pollutants). Once broken down, the pollutants are eventually converted into organic matter — which is actually HEALTHY for your lawn and the environment.
These absorbing capabilities also prevent excess runoff and soil erosion — which is essential to keeping our communities in place. And, of course, authentic grass helps provide clean oxygen for us to breathe.
Seamless!
The ability to grow roots is one of the greatest perks of authentic turf grass. Once you lay down rolls of sod across your lawn, it should only take about 10 to 14 days for the grass to establish roots.
The roots not only secure the grass to the soil, but they encourage new grass growth that will quickly cover up any unwanted seam lines. There is frankly no easy way to make artificial turf look so natural.
Softer against bare feet.
At the end of the day, nothing beats the feeling of real, lush grass against your bare feet. If you’re the kind of person who likes to walk across your lawn without the hassle of shoes or if your kiddos love playing outside, sod is the way to go.
Certain varieties are low maintenance.
One of the biggest arguments against real grass is that it requires lots of maintenance and water. Although this is the case for some grass types, particular sod varieties — like Zoysia and Bermuda — can withstand large amounts of heat and longer periods of drought.
Ready to browse some authentic sod options? We offer several warm season varieties you’ll love! Give us a call at (910) 386-9490 or send us a message! Our team is happy to help you find the perfect variety to fit your needs.
