Fake Grass

Synthetic grass for golf courses is about to take a new step into uncharted territory with a golf course in Kansas about to install a 3000 foot synthetic grass green. The 5th green at the Cedar Pines municipal golf course was severely damaged recently and significant repairs were required to get the green back into playing order. But instead of re-laying the green, a process that would take a significant amount of time, money and water, the decision was made to use synthetic grass instead.

Purists will cringe at the thought of synthetic grass being used on a golf course, but the green carpet that many people think of when they hear the phrase synthetic grass does not accurately describe the technologically advanced artificial surface.

The installation process is quite complex starting with the removal of the existing sod before a weed suppressing fabric is laid down. A two-part aggregate base is then laid down before the artificial grass is installed followed by 4 permanent holes that are drilled into the surface. (Three of the holes will be plugged while the 4th is in play). A green silica infill will then be brushed over the top of the grass.

According to the expert behind the artificial grass it is expected to play like a normal green with the green reacting just like grass when a ball hits it. The labor costs required to keep the grass looking perfect will be minimal with no water, chemical or mowing required. The green will also not need to be cored twice a year like the other greens. In short the golf club expects that substantial savings will be made due to its installation.

I’m sure golf courses around the country will be extremely interested in how this artificial green performs and how it is accepted by the golfers who use it.

As drought hits the area and water restrictions are increasingly…well, restrictive you’re sure to find it increasingly difficult to keep the grass alive. Not only that it might become increasingly difficult to justify trying to keep it alive. After all, water is a precious resource and as it becomes more scarce it’s hard to find reasons why it’s okay to tip it all into the lawn, only to see the lawn continue to struggle.

Okay, so the option of landscaping synthetic grass could very well prove to be getting increasingly attractive. Some local governments are even providing incentives to install synthetic grass with government rebates available. It would be a good idea to check in your local area to find out what is available to you.

Water restrictions is only one reason why synthetic gras might be an attractive option. The lower maintenance requirements, i.e. no mowing, weeding, cutting edges, aerating, filling in or worn patches, might appeal just as much. Who wants to spent a good proportion of their weekend in the hot sun tending to their lawn?

Sure, the up front cost of synthetic grass may seem pricey when compared to laying grass sod or sowing grass seed. But long-term, the cost is recouped not only through no lawnmowing costs, no watering and no pesticides but also in a more valuable resource – your time.

The range of artificial grass surfaces is wide and varied and it is made from a large base of companies. You will hopefully come away from reading the posts on this site with a more realistic expectation of finding the type of artificial grass that suits your needs.

Recently, the artificial turf industry has advanced the development of its product to impressive new levels. Artificial turf can be difficult to distinguish from real grass. If you have ever visited the administrative office of TCWD, the grass that is in front of the building is an example of what the artificial turf industry can now offer. It is not uncommon for staff to see visitors to our office (kids in particular) take their shoes off and give this grass a real test by walking on it. Parents and kids both give it a nod of approval.