Artificial grass comes with an alluring promise: Once installed, it requires little upkeep to look perfect 24/7. So it’s no wonder many people are investing in turf instead of maintaining real grass.
“Initially we were completely against turf because we love the look and feel of zoysia (golf course grass),” says landscape designer Fernando Wong, who noticed more clients have been interested in artificial grass in recent years. “We were finally won over when the quality got better and we saw how well it can transform an area that gets too little light or too much rain for real plants—on top of that, it is kid- and pet-friendly.”
Whether you live in a drought-prone area or are a renter looking to spruce up a small outdoor space, artificial grass can be a great option. The surge in its popularity has been fueled by innovations that address turf’s biggest downfalls, like how it can get super hot in the sun or look too fake. As technology advances, the faux option is expected to see a growth of $1.25 billion from 2021 to 2026 according to a recent report by Technavio, a global technology research and advisory company.
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Plenty of turfs have been made with specific needs in mind, like Lifeproof with Petproof Technology artificial turf for pet owners. “Because this turf drains so quickly, no puddles and no muddy paws will go through your home,” says Cynthia Castillo, merchant of stock, carpet, turf, modular and ceiling tile at The Home Depot.
You can certainly find the right option to fit your lifestyle and preferences. “The range of turf products available is wide,” says Brooklyn-based landscaper Jonathan Yevin of MUD landscaping. “I prefer turfs that have more of a dark green and olive brown coloration than the vibrant green—they’re more realistic and play well with actual plants.”
As an environmentalist, Yevin had mixed feelings about putting synthetic materials into gardens. But the option gradually won him over. “These are not single-use plastics. Turfs look the same even 10 years later, and it’s not as if lawns are good for the environment. They are a monoculture that requires constant input to not become a patchy, mucky mess,” he explains.
Wong recommends that anyone who wants to get artificial grass should request “recycled polyethylene plastic (PE) turf as it is better for the environment and can be recycled.”
With better turf options on the rise, artificial grass can make a good choice for certain homes. If you’re considering installing turf, Beautiful House has you covered with a landscaper’s guide to artificial grass that includes everything from information on the installation process to how to decide which artificial grass is best for you.
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Kelly Allen is the current Associate Editor at House Beautiful, where she covers design, pop culture, and travel for digital and the print magazine. She’s been with the team for nearly three years, attending industry events and covering a range of topics. When she’s not watching every new TV show and movie, she’s browsing vintage home stores, admiring hotel interiors, and wandering around New York City. She previously worked for Delish and Cosmopolitan. Follow her on Instagram.
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