Artificial turf is becoming a popular choice for householders looking for a green lawn, without the maintenance. Artificial turf has come on leaps and bounds since it was originally launched into the market back in 1966. It was first used in the Astrodome sports arena in Houston, Texas, because previous attempts at growing a green sports pitch there failed. (Before the artificial grass was installed, the sports pitch was painted green after one half of the season - to hide the dead grass!) With artificial grass growing in popularity, we often get asked by our customers if it is better than a real lawn. Here we take a look at the pros and cons of each.

Pros of artificial grass

• Little, to no maintenance required. Perfect for those who don't want to spend their spare time in the garden cutting grass! It will only need brushed occasionally and will definitely need to be hosed down if you have pets!
• Can be placed anywhere. Shaded area with no sunlight? No problem for artificial grass, as a lack of sunlight won't damage the grass.
• Looks just like real grass. With the introduction of realistic, luscious four tone piles, artificial grass looks like the real deal.
• Fully UV stabilised. Good artificial grass wont fade in the sun.

Cons of artificial grass

• The cost per m2 of artificial turf is considerably more expensive than the cost per m2 of real turf.
• The feel. It might look like real grass, but it doesn't feel like it. Some people don't like the feel of artificial grass, particularly with bare feet in summer.
• It heats up in warm weather.
• Worms and insects won't survive under artificial turf - so its not good for biodiversity.
• Artificial grass will need replaced. It might not be for 10 years, but at some point you will need to purchase new artificial grass and have it installed. Furthermore, it is not biodegradable, so most remnants of old artificial lawns will end up in landfill.

Pros of Real Grass

• Real grass is cheaper per m2 than artificial turf.
• Grass produces oxygen and recycles carbon dioxide, making it good for the environment.
• Grass has a cooling affect, and is considerably cooler than many other surfaces.
• A well kept lawn increases the value of your property - by as much as 10 - 15%!
• Despite the fact that grass grows on soil, it is hygienic as it goes through a process of self cleaning as it grows.
• Freshly cut grass smells nice. The smell of freshly cut grass always ranks highly in any surveys conducted about favourite smells. It looks and feels good too - walking barefoot on real grass is great for the senses and improves overall well being.

Cons of Real Grass

• Maintenance. To keep your lawn in tip-top condition it does require some TLC. Often regular mowing will suffice, but dependent upon your growing conditions you may need to water, fertilise, aerate or scarify it occasionally to keep it looking its best.
• Real grass areas can become muddy during periods of bad weather.
• During the summer months lawns need water to stay healthy and hydrated.

Our verdict?

Artificial grass and real grass both cater for different people, so at the end of the day it boils down to your own preference. Artificial lawns are not for everyone, however if it is to your liking and you get an artificial lawn installed properly you will be able to enjoy an immaculate lawn for many years. On the other hand if you opt for a real lawn and can devote a little bit of time to maintaining it you will be enjoying the multiple benefits of real grass for many years to come. As turf growers, we prefer real grass. Its a labour of love!