Crafting the perfect outdoor oasis is no simple task in the UK given the unpredictability of British weather.
Keeping luscious grass and blooming flowerbeds healthy and happy becomes increasingly difficult with torrential rain and a perennial lack of sunlight.
Artificial grass has emerged as a popular, fuss-free alternative to real turf and is beloved for its ability to keep gardens looking verdant all year round. It’s also a far more cost-effective means of improving outdoor spaces, as synthetic grass drastically reduces costs associated with watering, weeding and feeding.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of artificial grass?
Advantages
- Not only does artificial grass cost less in the long term and last far longer than traditional turf, but it’s also great for households with individuals who suffer from allergies.
- They require little to no maintenance, are pet-friendly, durable and always look wonderfully green – especially if UV stabilised.
- Artificial grass offers a vast variety of styles and types to suit your personal horticultural aesthetic, allowing you to choose between shades of green, textures, heights and more.
Disadvantages
- Downsides include the fact that artificial grass requires a longer installation process and is often more expensive than traditional turf.
- Synthetic grass also gets very hot in the summer as it absorbs heat, which can make it uncomfortable to walk on. This is another reason why artificial grass is typically recommended for shady areas where grass struggles to grow.
- Synthetic grass can additionally trap bacteria, which means that pet owners will still have to regularly clean and hose down the area.
- Though some artificial lawns can be recycled, many contribute to landfill waste. Before investing in artificial grass, consider the materials that it has been made with.
What should people consider before choosing artificial grass?
Blade shape and texture
Turf Network
There are a surprisingly large number of blade shapes for artificial grass, resulting in a variety of different textures. Turf Distributors has a handy guide to the top 10 different types of artificial grass. Broadly, W, S and wavy-shaped yarn help to deliver a natural look, while more rigid diamond and flat shapes have better durability and tend to hold their shape long-term.
Shade
Make sure you choose a shade of green that looks natural, isn’t just a trendy option that you might tire of, and is resistant to UV.
Density and height
Since artificial grass doesn’t grow, make sure you’re choosing a density which suits your outdoor needs. Longer, high-density artificial turf tends to be higher quality, lasts longer and looks more realistic. On the flipside, shorter, low-density artificial turf is cheaper and works well for low-traffic areas. The denser the turf, the thicker the grass will appear to be.
We’ve curated a selection of the best quality artificial grass to shop in the UK for your ideal lawn.
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