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What Is Artificial Grass?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

Artificial grass is a product that looks and feels similar to real grass but does not require the care and maintenance that real, organic grass requires. Made from a number of different materials, this type of grass has become increasingly popular in applications to reduce costs of water, reduce the need for frequent maintenance and upkeep, and to provide grass-like materials indoors for a number of different purposes. Artificial grass has also been used for athletic fields and has been applied to fields for baseball, soccer, football, and even golf in certain areas.

Sometimes also called synthetic grass or artificial turf, artificial grass can be made from a number of different materials to achieve a look and feel that closely resembles real grass. Nylon is among the most common materials used for this type grass, and synthetic fibers from plastic materials are also quite common. These can be placed in a carpet or rug type of substance, allowing the material to be quickly and easily laid out in an area.

Artificial grass has been applied to soccer fields.
Artificial grass has been applied to soccer fields.

The mounting of this grass also commonly provides a certain amount of springiness, which helps the grass have a more realistic texture and feel underfoot. Organic materials can also be used in producing artificial grass, such as soy, to provide the material with a more noticeable color and visual quality that resembles real grass. Many types of synthetic grass are also treated with an ultraviolet (UV) protective coating to make the grass more resilient and less likely to fade or diminish in appearance.

One of the major benefits of artificial grass is that it does not require the type of care and maintenance that real grass needs to grow and flourish. Primary among these benefits is that it does not require water, which for many households and businesses can significantly reduce the cost of water bills. In some areas, tax rebates are even offered to people who choose artificial grass over real grass to encourage the reduced water usage that such grass provides.

Because it’s low-maintenance and non-toxic, it’s also invaluable for hobbyists, such as those interested in building indoor putting greens, creating dioramas of outdoor scenes, or refinishing a playroom floor. It provides realistic greenery to projects of any scale and comes in various pre-cut and bulk sheets to meet custom sizing requirements. The high-durability backing also makes it easy to permanently attach artificial grass with staples, glue, or screws, and the “pile”  will hide most fasteners.

Since artificial grass is not real, it does not actually grow, which means that it does not require mowing or similar maintenance. Though such grass may be more expensive, the reduced water bills and easier care can often outweigh the initial investment in such synthetic grass. This type of artificial grass can also be used indoors to create areas carpeted in grass, which can be beneficial for pet owners, or even for creating a small indoor golfing area.

This versatile grass has found applications in various areas, including athletic fields, baseball, soccer, football, and even for creating indoor putting greens for home. Its UV-protective coating ensures longevity and resistance to fading. The major advantage lies in its easy maintenance, as it does not require watering or mowing

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    • Artificial grass has been applied to soccer fields.
      By: Andrii IURLOV
      Artificial grass has been applied to soccer fields.