What Should I Consider Before Installing Natural Turf Grass for My Yard?
Natural turf grass can transform your garden into a vibrant and lush space and is pretty affordable. However, it’s essential to consider several factors before making a decision. This guide will walk you through the most important aspects to keep in mind.
Think About Your Garden’s Climate
Understanding the sun needs of grass is essential in selecting the right type of turf for your garden. Just like people, grasses have their preferences when it comes to sunlight. Some thrive in full sun, basking in those golden rays for hours, while others can tolerate some partial shade. This is key info to consider since it directly impacts how well your turf will flourish as well as how fast water will evaporate from the soil.
If your garden is a sun-drenched paradise, you’re in luck! Many grass varieties love this situation and will reward you with a lush, vibrant lawn. On the flip side, if you’ve got shady spots, you’ll want to choose turf types that can handle less direct sunlight. It’s perfect to do a little sun mapping of your garden to understand what areas get the most light and which ones are a bit shadier.
Consider the way the sun moves across your garden throughout the day. Some areas might receive full sun in the morning but be shaded in the afternoon. Observe these patterns, as they will greatly influence your grass choices. High-quality turf will need the right amount of sunlight to grow strong and healthy, ensuring your garden remains the beautiful retreat you envision. So, as you think about turf installation, make sure to keep those sun requirements front and center in your decision-making process!
Determine Turf Type
Different types of turf are suited for various purposes. Assess your needs to choose wisely. If your garden will see a lot of foot traffic, for example, opting for a durable grass type is imperative.
When it comes to selecting the right turf for your garden in the Pacific Northwest, two popular choices are rhizomatous tall fescue and perennial ryegrass. Each of these grass types brings its own unique benefits and can fit different needs based on your garden’s climate and the level of activity it sees.
Rhizomatous tall fescue is a fantastic option if you’re looking for durability and resilience. This grass establishes a deep root system that helps it withstand hot summers and cold winters, making it particularly suitable for the variable climate of the Pacific Northwest. It’s also tolerant of drought and can handle foot traffic well, making it an excellent choice for families with kids and pets running around. Plus, it has a lovely, lush appearance that can make your garden feel more inviting.
On the other hand, perennial ryegrass is often favored for its quick germination and establishment. If you want a lawn that sprouts quickly and is ready for use in no time, this is the grass for you. It creates a beautiful, fine-textured lawn that’s perfect for creating an inviting space for relaxation and entertainment. However, perennial ryegrass may not hold up as well under heavy foot traffic compared to rhizomatous tall fescue. It’s also more sensitive to drought, so you’ll need to pay closer attention to watering, especially during the warmer months.
So, when deciding between these two options for sod or seed lawn installations, consider how you plan to use your garden and the amount of maintenance you’re willing to invest. If you’re looking for a robust lawn that can handle a busy household, rhizomatous tall fescue may be the way to go. But if you want a quick, visually appealing lawn for casual use, perennial ryegrass could be your best bet. Understanding these differences can help ensure that your garden thrives and meets your needs, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant spaces you envision.
Consider Long-term Maintenance
Think about how much time and effort you’re willing to invest in maintaining your lawn. Installing turf grass is just the beginning; ongoing care will directly impact the health and appearance of your garden. Regular mowing, watering, and occasional fertilization will keep your grass looking its best.
In addition, consider the equipment you’ll need for maintenance and leave yourself access paths through gates or to your shed or garage.
Budget for Installation
Setting a budget will help you make informed decisions about material quality and professional help. Turf installation can range from a DIY project to a fully managed service, so understanding your financial parameters is essential.
Removing an old lawn can be a challenge and increase the cost where expanding a lawn into a blank planting bed may be relatively easy. When in doubt reach out to a pro. There are many companies that specialize in lawns and lawn care. Keep in mind that the overall installation costs will also include additional materials such as soil blends and amendments and possible drainage solutions. Having a detailed plan will ensure you stay within your budget and achieve the garden of your dreams without financial surprises. Sprinklers and irrigation can add a large expense too, so be sure you plan your watering before you begin!
Final Thoughts on Turf Installation
Lawns can be a great place for kids and pets to play or serve as lush negative space in your garden. That being said, don’t be afraid to explore perennial landscaping options and permanent paths if you don’t want to do weekly maintenance of a lawn. Synthetic turf is gaining popularity for its ease of maintenance, but sometimes a small patio under the shade of a tree would be used more often than either of those options. With all these factors to consider I would recommend reaching out to a landscape designer to make the most of your time spent outdoors!