The Pros and Cons of Artificial Turf

What side of the grass do you stand on? Artificial grass is quickly gaining ground. It has a reputation for being environmentally friendly because it does not need to be watered, fertilized, or mowed. Plus, the latest generation of artificial turf looks good enough to trick you into thinking that it is real.

Lush, green lawns come at a very steep cost to our environment. One-third of residential

water is used for watering lawns. Efforts to take care of lawns by blowing, mowing, and trimming with gas and electric-powered equipment create air pollution. Fertilizers on grass pollute the groundwater.

People say not to give up on lawns. Instead, use recycled water to water the lawn and use organic fertilizers. Lawns have an emotional value. People can become attached to their lawns especially when they work hard to make them look beautiful and serene.

Some municipalities in California have restricted lawn sizes in new projects because of

the issues regarding the environmental impacts. If you live in a drought-ridden area, consider how it makes you look if your lawn is lush and green, while the neighbor’s next-door looks like dry, golden straw. In this case, would you opt for, or favor, artificial grass?

Outdoor carpet addresses the environmental concerns of real grass. It does not require

water, mowing, or fertilizer. The life expectancy of artificial turf can be 25 years or more, but the initial investment can be costly. The aesthetic value of turf can’t be ignored. It fools the eye into thinking it’s real. It comes in a wide array of blade colors, length, and textures.

While it may look like the real thing, some don’t like that synthetic grass is plastic. Artificial turf has environmental drawbacks even though it does save water. It is petroleum based, which causes pollution and waste while it is being manufactured. It’s not biodegradable; and it will, eventually, end up being thrown in a landfill. If in direct sunlight, it absorbs heat and is hot to the touch. Pet owners give it a mixed review. It does not absorb waste from animals, but it is permeable so liquids can pass through.

Is it better to grow something in the soil, or is it better to smother the soil by throwing

artificial grass over it? It’s definitely an individual choice. Please visit this website www.usaverockerymorganhill.com/sod for more information on turf grass in Morgan Hill.