When it comes to creating the perfect yard, homeowners often face a tough decision: should I choose artificial turf or natural grass for my lawn? It is one of the great questions of our time. After all, your yard is a huge part of your home’s look, functionality, and personality. Whether you like to host summer BBQs, have a space for your kids to run and play, or simply just like sitting and enjoying some peace and quiet, you want the best for your property.

But making this decision isn’t always easy, especially when you consider all the factors involved—cost, maintenance, environmental impact, and more. As a homeowner, you want something that looks great but doesn’t make you go into debt or be constantly worried about upkeep.

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we totally get it. As a small, local business serving homeowners here on the Kitsap Peninsula, we’ve worked with many customers who were in the exact same spot you are. They want a beautiful yard without the hassle, but they’re unsure which path to take. The truth is, both options have their pros and cons, and in this article, we’ll break it all down for you—no fluff, just the facts—so you can make an informed decision that’s right for your lifestyle and your budget.

Natural Grass: The Classic Choice for Your Lawn

Natural grass—there’s something timeless about it, isn’t there? It’s lush, it’s green, and it feels great underfoot. But before you start picturing your dream lawn, it’s important to understand what goes into keeping it healthy and vibrant.

Pros of Natural Grass

  1. Curb Appeal: There’s no doubt that a healthy, well-maintained natural lawn can elevate the beauty of your home. It’s classic, fresh, and appeals to many buyers if you’re thinking of selling your property down the line.
  2. Environmentally Friendly: Natural grass absorbs carbon dioxide, helps prevent soil erosion, and provides a habitat for local wildlife. It’s also a natural air purifier and plays a part in keeping your outdoor space cool during the summer.
  3. Cooling Effect: Grass naturally helps cool the surrounding environment. During the warmer months, a lush, green lawn can make your outdoor areas more comfortable.

Cons of Natural Grass

  1. Maintenance: Ah, maintenance—likely the biggest downside. Natural grass requires frequent mowing, fertilizing, and watering. And here in the Kitsap Peninsula, with our wet winters and dry summers, keeping your lawn lush and green can be a bit like riding a bike while trying to juggle.
  2. Watering Costs: Maintaining a natural lawn often requires a lot of water. In the summer months, that can add up quickly, especially if you’re trying to keep it looking its best.
  3. Pests and Weeds: You’re likely going to run into pests (like grubs, ants, or even moles) and unwanted weeds that love to invade your lawn. Keeping them under control can take time and effort that you don’t have.
  4. Soil Quality: The quality of the soil beneath your grass affects its overall health. You may need to amend the soil with nutrients, and some areas may not be ideal for grass at all (shady spots, for example).

Is Natural Grass Right for You?

If you have the time, resources, and energy to properly care for your lawn, natural grass can be a great choice. It’s especially ideal for families with kids or pets who want that soft, natural feel underfoot. However, if you’re looking for something low-maintenance that looks great year-round, it might not be your best bet.

Artificial Turf: The Low-Maintenance Alternative

Now, let’s talk about artificial turf—a modern solution to the age-old problem of keeping your lawn in tip-top shape. More and more homeowners are turning to synthetic grass as an alternative, and for some good reasons.

Pros of Artificial Turf

  1. Low Maintenance: This is probably the biggest selling point of artificial turf. Once it’s installed, you don’t have to worry about mowing, watering, or fertilizing. It’s perfect for busy homeowners who don’t have the time or energy for regular lawn care. This does not mean maintenance free, as we recommend re-infilling and using a power broom to stand it back up every few years.
  2. No Pests or Weeds: With artificial turf, you don’t have to worry about pesky insects or weeds invading your lawn. The synthetic fibers are tough, and the turf doesn’t provide the food source that attracts insects or the soil for weeds to grow.
  3. Water Conservation: Artificial turf is a water-saving option, especially in regions with water restrictions or those who want to minimize their environmental footprint. No watering means you’re not paying for a hefty water bill or wasting water on a lawn that doesn’t need it.
  4. Durability: Synthetic grass is built to last for years. With proper care, it can maintain its vibrant green color through all kinds of weather. It’s resistant to fading, and many types of turf come with warranties, ensuring you’re getting a long-term solution.
  5. Pet-Friendly: If you have dogs, artificial turf can be a great choice. It’s easy to clean, and unlike natural grass, it won’t get muddy or torn up by paws. Plus, many types of artificial turf are designed to drain quickly, preventing odors.
  6. Less likely to flood or hold water. Living in the PNW we get a lot of rain. If you have a traditional lawn, sometimes all that water can lead to pooling, flooding, and mud. When we install artificial turf, we build a base 6-8 inches thick of ¾ inch crushed clean basalt. We compact that so all the rocks lock tightly together. We then screed a 1 inch layer of ⅜ clean aggregate on top of our compacted base to get a nice level surface to lay the turf. Installing turf in this way leads to a more level yard less prone to flooding in low spots and increased drainage.

Cons of Artificial Turf

  1. Initial Cost: One of the biggest drawbacks of artificial turf is the upfront cost. Installation can be expensive, especially for larger yards. However, this cost is often offset over time because you won’t need to spend money on maintenance, watering, or replanting.
  2. Heat Retention: Artificial turf tends to get hotter than natural grass, especially on hot, sunny days. If you’re looking for a lawn to lounge on barefoot during the summer, synthetic grass might not be the most comfortable choice.
  3. Environmental Concerns: While artificial turf saves water, it’s not without its environmental impact. Synthetic turf is made from plastic materials, and over time, it can degrade and contribute to landfill waste. Additionally, it doesn’t support biodiversity the way natural grass does.
  4. Aesthetic Appeal: While modern artificial turf looks much more realistic than older versions, it still doesn’t compare to the feel and look of natural grass. Some people might find it hard to shake that “fake” look, especially when up close.

Is Artificial Turf Right for You?

If you’re a busy homeowner who wants a lawn that looks good year-round without the hassle, artificial turf could be a great option. It’s also ideal for properties in areas with water restrictions, or for those who don’t mind the higher upfront cost for long-term savings. However, if you value the environmental benefits of natural grass or enjoy getting your hands dirty with lawn care, it may not be the best fit.

Which Option is Right for You?

So, artificial turf vs. natural grass—which is the better option for your yard? At the end of the day, it depends on your lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.

Here’s a quick recap of the factors you might want to consider:

  • Cost: Artificial turf may cost more upfront but saves money on water, maintenance, and replanting over time. Natural grass has lower installation costs but can add up with regular care.
  • Maintenance: If you prefer low-maintenance landscaping, artificial turf wins hands down. Natural grass, on the other hand, requires ongoing upkeep.
  • Aesthetic and Feel: Natural grass offers the classic look and feel, while artificial turf may fall short in terms of tactile experience and authenticity.
  • Environmental Impact: Natural grass offers environmental benefits, but artificial turf saves water and reduces chemical use.

Conclusion

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we know that making the right choice for your yard isn’t easy. Whether you choose artificial turf or natural grass, we’re here to help you make the decision that works best for your home, your family, and your lifestyle. We’ve helped countless homeowners on the Kitsap Peninsula create beautiful, functional outdoor spaces, and we’d love to do the same for you.

If you’re still unsure about which option is right for your yard, reach out to us! We’d be happy to discuss your vision, budget, and preferences to help you decide. Whether you’re looking for the convenience of artificial turf or the classic beauty of natural grass, we’ll make sure your outdoor space is a place you can truly enjoy.