6 Myths About Artificial Turf Every Sarasota Homeowner Should Know
How much do you know about artificial turf? Could you sweep the category on “Jeopardy?”
Some of what you think you know might be wrong, especially if you haven’t seen artificial grass lately.
Artificial turf has come a long way since the early days when everybody called it “astroturf” and your aunt still wore a beehive hairdo.
What are some myths about artificial grass? Common myths include that it’s bad for the environment; it isn’t practical if you have a dog; it requires no maintenance.
Let’s clear up some fake grass misconceptions, including:
Myth #1: Artificial Turf Is Bad for the Environment
Fact: Artificial Turf Offers Several Benefits to the Environment
Critics of artificial turf say the synthetic grass breaks down into microplastics, which migrate into waterways and ecosystems. And most artificial turf, when it needs to be replaced, ends up in a landfill.
But real turf poses its own hazards to the environment. It requires massive amounts of water to thrive. The chemicals it requires, from fertilizer to weed killer to insect control, make their way into the water system. And some lawn care products kill beneficial insects, like bees.
Meanwhile, artificial grass saves a lot of water. It only needs occasional rinsing. This is a big deal, as Florida is experiencing its most intense drought in 15 years, with more than 70 percent of the state facing what the U.S. Drought Monitor calls "extreme" to "exceptional" drought conditions.
Saving water is crucial, and artificial turf saves a lot of it.
Artificial turf has other environmental benefits, too. It needs no lawn care chemicals for its upkeep, and you skip the noise and air pollution that mowing creates. Most artificial turf is made here in the USA in Georgia, from recycled plastic.
Myth #2: Artificial Turf Doesn’t Get Hot
Fact: Actually, Artificial Turf Does Get Hot
Does artificial turf get hot in Florida? Yes, it gets hotter than natural grass in direct sun, but it doesn’t get too hot to use.
You can keep it cooler by using specialized infill, installing it mostly in shaded areas, or by spraying it with water to lower the temperature.
Many homeowners keep their irrigation systems after they switch from real turf so they can use it to cool their artificial grass. Connect your irrigation system to your phone to make this super convenient. You won’t be using your irrigation system nearly as much as you did with real grass, so you save money not just on water but on irrigation system maintenance costs, too.
Years ago, black rubber infill was notorious for absorbing heat.
But today’s artificial turf infill helps keep grass cool by absorbing moisture from rain, dew or a quick watering then releasing it slowly through evaporation as the turf heats up.
You can also help keep your turf cool by installing trees, pergolas or sun shades for cooling shade.
Quality matters, too. Higher-quality artificial turf often features better UV resistance and technology to reflect heat compared to cheaper varieties.
Myth #3: Artificial Turf Doesn’t Drain As Well as Real Grass
Fact: Modern Artificial Turf Has Excellent Drainage
Here’s a great artificial turf myth buster: Artificial turf, if installed properly, can actually drain better than real grass, which often becomes waterlogged and muddy during heavy rain.
Artificial grass features tiny holes in the backing, allowing water to flow directly through the turf.
Several inches of a compacted sand and gravel base sits underneath the turf, providing a stable foundation that allows water to flow through and away from the turf.
Meanwhile, skilled artificial turf installers prepare the ground with a slight slope to encourage natural runoff and prevent water from settling in the base.
Myth #4: Artificial Turf Needs No Maintenance
Fact: Artificial Grass is Low Maintenance — But Not No Maintenance
While artificial turf needs much less maintenance than natural grass, it does need occasional attention. If you think you can install it then spend the rest of your days sipping daiquiris in a lounge chair, not lifting a finger, well, you’ve fallen for one of the great fake grass misconceptions. Nice try, though.
Here’s a look at what to expect for Florida artificial turf maintenance:
- Rinse your artificial turf occasionally with water to keep it clean. Use a blower or rake to remove any debris, including fallen leaves.
- Brush your turf occasionally with a plastic leaf rake, a power broom or a push broom with stiff bristles. Brush the blades in the opposite direction of the turf to help keep the blades standing up straight.
- Clean up spills quickly. Grab a clean cloth and clean up as much of the spill as possible. Follow up with water and a mild detergent and give the soiled area a good scrub.
- Plan to replenish your infill every 3-5 years. Infill settles and wears down over time. If you power broom your artificial turf and it still doesn’t stand up nice and straight, it probably needs more infill.
- Have a dog? More on this in a bit, but artificial turf maintenance involves a few more steps if you’re sharing the grass with a furry friend. Hose down your turf with a water hose or your irrigation system weekly, then treat it with bleach, vinegar, or Simple Green, a multi-purpose cleaner that works great on dog odors and for cleaning artificial grass surfaces. It’s a water-based, biodegradable alternative to harsher chemicals.
Myth #5: Artificial Turf Looks Fake
Fact: Not Anymore
Thinking about that stiff, bright green astroturf your aunt had that looked like a cheap carpet?
Think again.
Today’s turf manufacturers create artificial grass that looks just like natural grass, with realistic colors and textures. So that whole business about fake grass looking fake is just one of the artificial grass myths.
They even mix in a few brown blades for extra realism. Softer materials mimic the texture of real grass.
Blades are manufactured with varying shapes to reduce shine and reflect light more like natural grass.
Modern infill materials help the grass blades stand upright, preventing that flat, matted look common in older artificial grass.
Myth #6: Artificial Turf Isn’t Good for Dogs
Fact: Actually, It Is
Maybe your dog has been giving you the side eye because you’re considering artificial turf. Is he worried it’s too hot? Concerned his pee won’t drain? Actually, he’s eyeing that cookie you left on the counter. You’re giving him waaaaay too much credit.
So, don’t believe this artificial grass misconception. Artificial turf is safe for dogs. It’s non-toxic, drains well and can be easily cleaned. Bonus: say bye to muddy paws!
There are even varieties of artificial turf specifically designed for dogs, with shorter, stiffer grass blades, flow-through backing for better drainage and antimicrobial technology built into the blades.
Is the artificial turf material safe for dogs? It is. Most artificial grass is made of polyethylene, a widely used plastic and the same material found in children's toys and other household items.
One exception is older artificial turf. Older or imported artificial grass backings might be treated with lead, which can hurt your dog if he eats it. Make sure your installer is reputable and uses only lead-free, non-toxic artificial grass, made or inspected in the United States.
Be Aware: It Can Get Smelly
If you have a dog and you don't clean your artificial turf well, it will smell. Hosing the turf down with a water hose regularly and treating it with bleach or vinegar helps eliminate odors.
Have questions? Just ask. We’ve had four dogs and artificial turf for years. Ask us anything.
Why So Many Myths About Artificial Grass?
Why are there so many misconceptions about artificial turf?
Well, some myths swirl because people have only seen outdated products that aren’t great. As we talked about earlier, artificial grass has come a long way since it first came on the scene.
Some artificial grass myths are due to poor installation. Even the highest quality artificial grass won’t look great if sloppy installation causes the seams to show or creates weird dips in the lawn.
Skilled, professional installation is crucial so your new lawn’s drainage works well, the base is level and compact and the seams are invisible. Ask how long your artificial turf installer has been doing this. You don’t want a newbie — it takes real experience and skill.
Frequently Asked Questions About Artificial Turf
Q: Is artificial grass worth it in Florida?
A: Yes, you’ll pay more money upfront on artificial turf than if you installed real grass, but it saves you a lot of time and money on lawn care.
While it’s costly upfront, artificial turf eliminates fertilizers, pesticides, and constant watering, making it a strong long-term investment.
Q: How much does artificial turf cost?
A: Expect to pay $12 to $16 per square foot for artificial turf in Sarasota.
That’s considerably more than real grass, but keep in mind the cost of real grass doesn’t end with installation.
When you’re caring for real grass, you’re paying for weekly mowing, unless you do it yourself. That alone costs about $160 per month. Add the cost of irrigation; fertilizer eight times a year; regular weed control; pesticides; occasional fungicides. And do you have to drill a well for that irrigation water? Add that extra expense.
Q: How long does artificial turf last?
A: High-quality turf typically lasts 15–20 years with proper maintenance.
Want the Facts About Sarasota Artificial Turf? Talk to Us
Don’t believe the myths about synthetic grass.
Today’s artificial turf looks real, is safe for Fido and helps the environment by saving a lot of water.
We’d love to tell you more. Partner with us for your Sarasota artificial turf installation.
At Tropical Gardens Landscape, we make things easy from the very beginning, answering all your questions and helping you choose the type of artificial turf that’s best for your yard and lifestyle.
Then, we handle everything, from preparing your yard to expertly installing your artificial turf to cleaning up afterwards.
We’ll even leave you with artificial turf maintenance tips so you can keep your new lawn looking great for years to come.
Bonus: we’re a full-service Sarasota landscaping company — not just artificial turf experts. That means we can help with all your landscaping needs, from designing your outdoor space to installing and maintaining tropical plants to building a pergola or outdoor kitchen.
Let’s get started. We’ll help you figure it all out.
Give us a call or fill out our form today! Our team of Sarasota designers can’t wait to bust a few myths while designing your perfect outdoor haven.
