Alternative Grass: Eco-friendly Lawn Options for your Garden

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Your lawn requires dozens of gallons daily to retain its lush and vibrant color. Maintaining your grass lawn can cost you thousands of dollars each year. However, did you know there is an affordable alternative to your traditional lawn? Enter synthetic alternative grass.

If you want eco-friendly artificial grass in your yard, then installing synthetic grass turfs as an alternative to grass lawns is highly recommended.

What Does “Eco-Friendly Lawn” Mean?

An eco-friendly lawn is a type of yard that can decrease energy usage, conserve water, and reduce pollution. The term “eco-friendly” generally refers to something that doesn’t harm the environment.

Most eco-friendly lawns are designed to consume less water and require little maintenance. They also don’t require as many pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers as any regular lawn.

The most popular alternative to grass in the backyard is to replace it with drought-resistant plants such as wildflowers, clovers, perennials, and herbs.

Other eco-friendly grass alternatives include using mulch backyard instead of grass. artificial turfs, ground covers, and decomposed granite.

eco-friendly lawn

Why Choose Alternative to Grass in Backyard?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average American household consumes about 320 gallons of water daily. Fifteen percent of that water, or 48 gallons, is used in watering their lawns.

Choosing grass alternatives, such as synthetic grass or artificial turf, can help reduce residential and water consumption. Some grass alternative ground covers are also made from recycled materials such as plastic bottles or tires. Hence, it can help the environment by limiting the number of plastic ending up in the ocean or other fragile ecosystems.

Synthetic turf lasts 25 years or more, and its aesthetic value is just as good as the real thing. You can also choose the design elements of your synthetic turf based on its textures, colors, blade lengths, and materials.

Meanwhile, using mulch instead of grass is cheaper and requires less maintenance than traditional grass lawns. Furthermore, they help reduce weed growth and help control erosion in your yard. Additionally, they are an excellent method of turning poor soil into nutrient-rich ground.

Overall, choosing eco-friendly artificial grass is not only good for the environment, but it’s also good for your wallet.

alternative to grass in backyard

Some Types of Alternative Grass

We are aware that conventional lawns are bad for the environment. The lush, carpet-like grass that covers a large portion of suburban North America needs to be cut frequently, which uses up resources and creates pollution. It also consumes water and pollutes our rivers with dangerous runoff from chemical fertilizers.

  • Eco-Friendly Ground Covers

Groundcovers are the ideal grass substitute since they spread across the ground but don’t become very tall. These low-maintenance plants spread fast, smother weeds, and fill up cracks in the ground. Which groundcovers will work best in your yard ultimately depends on the environment where you live and the design of your landscaping.

Some incredible examples of groundcovers include creeping herbs like oregano and thyme, Asian star jasmine, Barberry cotoneaster, and the Japanese sweet flag. These plants are great in bright, sunny areas.

  • Artificial Turf as an Alternative to Grass Lawn

Artificial grass is among the lowest maintenance surfaces available. Faux grass emerged in the 1970s and evolved into a contemporary, eco-friendly landscaping alternative since it requires no upkeep. Its numerous variations are remarkably lifelike and don’t need to be watered, fertilized, mowed, or controlled for weeds.

You can build a lush, green yard that is practically maintenance-free and eco-friendly with careful design and planting, giving you a beautiful area to enjoy. And the most significant part is that you may select from various backyard artificial grass and pavers options.

grass alternative ground cover

  • Wildflowers

Wildflowers are a great alternative to lawns since they only need to be mowed once each season and require minimal upkeep or additional water after they have been established. Some landscapists advise homeowners to blend wildflowers, combining various species and placing them side-by-side on the lawn.

Although wildflower seeds can also be sowed in the fall, some can be lost to water, birds, and other animals. Direct sow the annual species in early spring to get the most out of them.

You could pick a fescue seed choice if you want something that more closely resembles a typical lawn and can withstand foot activity. The Poaceae grass family includes flowering plants called fescues.
Because of their deep roots and sluggish growth, they require less watering and mowing regularly.

  • Mulch and Gravel

Mulch is frequently used to cover the soil’s top layer. They are created by decomposing plant materials, including compost, leaves, tree bark, and grass clippings. They can also enhance soil quality and control weed growth. Additionally, you may use them to prevent the earth from drying up by the sun’s rays, conserving water.

Your garden’s aesthetic appeal is not just dependent on plants, flowers, and grass. Gravel, pebbles, and wood are other hardscape components that may improve the overall appearance of your grass.

Choose porous materials for the driveway on your lawn so that water may soak into the soil and rocks beneath. This technique will make drawing moisture from the underlying soil simpler. Asphalt, concrete blocks, and gravel are examples of permeable pavers.

Traditional lawns might be doing more harm to the environment, given the amount of water and other resources required to keep them. Using alternative grass and other eco-friendly alternatives to grass can help solve this problem.

If you need the best artificial lawn in Las Vegas has to offer, make sure to contact the best artificial company– Festival Turf.

 

Artificial Garden Walls: How to Build an Artificial Vertical Garden?

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Setting up a garden wall of authentic plants can be costly and time-consuming. Hence, replacing it with fake garden walls is an excellent alternative as it captures the same aesthetics with fewer hassles.

Building an artificial vertical garden requires less maintenance and is generally cheaper because it does not require water, fertilizer, or pest control.

This article discusses what artificial garden walls are and how you can set up your artificial vertical garden at a fairly reasonable budget. Whether you need Las Vegas artificial grass or anywhere in the country, these tips can help you fix one in your home.

What Is An Artificial Vertical Garden?

Artificial vertical gardens are a decoration that mimics living plants but is made of paper, silk, or plastic. They are meant to be placed in vertical spaces such as brick walls, timber cladding walls, and paling fences.

The synthetic plants that make up the vertical garden are supported vertically by interlocking plates.
Low-quality ones could seem too shiny and synthetic, while high-quality ones are lifelike, low-maintenance, and long-lasting.

Step by Step Introduction on How to Build a Faux Vertical Garden

Building a faux vertical garden is easy since installing it is less tenuous than natural plants. You can also put it almost anywhere in your house, from your balcony to your backyard. Furthermore, you can order a specific size depending on your needs or customize it based on your preference.

Here is a simple guide on how to install an artificial vertical garden anywhere on your property:

Find Location and Measure

Go to the area or section of the house where you want to install the fake garden walls. Use a tape measure to get the length and width of the place where you want to put the artificial vertical garden.

Take note of the measurements, especially if you intend to connect multiple faux vertical gardens over the said area.

Calculate and Connect the Panels

Next, perform some calculations to ensure that the Las Vegas artificial grass panels cover the area you intend to decorate. The great thing about these panels is that you can resize them by cutting any excess. They also stick to any surface, and you can bend them to form a curved or contoured section.

Cut the grid panel based on the measurements you obtained earlier. Fix the grid panel using nails into the wall. When installing, make sure to interlock the panels to one another. You can also use zip ties to secure each panel better.

Fix the Panels Together to the Requested Size

Next, fix the panels together using a steel wire grid to help put the panel in place without damaging the wall. You can also use a staple gun to fix the panel into a timber cladding wall.

Ensure you get the size that best fits the area you want to decorate, so you won’t have to cut it down to pieces later.

Design Your Fake Wall Garden As You Wish

Finally, make adjustments, so every aspect of the fake garden wall follows your initial design. You can add a few elements to make it stand out, such as a frame or other accessories. You can design your artificial vertical garden based on your style preferences.

artificial green wall

Where to Put your Artificial Green Wall?

You can place the Las Vegas artificial grass wall vertically anywhere in your home, outdoors and indoors. It’s best placed in the living and dining rooms since it balances out the darker furniture color in those areas.

What Are Fake Garden Walls Made Of?

Most fake garden walls are made from paper, silk, and plastic. Meanwhile, the grid panels where you put the garden wall are usually made of plastic or steel. Some faux ivy vertical garden areas are also ultraviolet (UV) resistant, making them ideal to be put on the veranda or balcony.

The Benefits of Having a Vertical Garden

Installing artificial vertical garden panels has several advantages over fixing natural plants on your walls. Such as:

  • It does not require artificial turf maintenance
  • Vertical garden artificial does not need pest control, fertilizer, and even water
  • A fake wall garden can be customized and shaped much more easier
  • They typically last longer since insects aren’t interested in them
  • A faux vertical garden does not cause pollen allergies

Overall, you don’t have to be a green thumb to ensure that the artificial vertical garden wall always looks best.

Tips on Maintaining your Artificial Wall Garden

Low-maintenance artificial vertical garden only requires to be cleaned a few times a year; if you have a green plastic wall, make sure to use a cloth dipped in warm water and multi-purpose cleaner spray and rub it on the surface.

However, if you have a silk or paper green wall, use a duster or dry cloth instead since these materials are not meant to get wet. If your artificial plant or green wall is UV resistant or stabilized, let it out in the sun for a while. Meanwhile, if it’s not, let the wall dry inside for a little while.

For more information about artificial wall gardens, please contact our professionals. If you are seeking more details about the fake grass for wall in Las Vegas our professionals are ready to assist you.

Landscaping a Small Area: How to Make Your Small Yard Feel Bigger

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Landscaping isn’t just for huge lawns; just because you may not have a whole lot of space to work with doesn’t mean you can’t put together a gorgeous landscape!

There are many wonderful options to get the most out of smaller gardens; here are a few tips and tricks to turn yours into something truly magnificent.

Small Backyard Landscaping Ideas

Your backyard should be your personal sanctuary, a place of peace and serenity. To get the most out of your backyard, there are a few landscaping ideas to consider to elevate the overall aesthetic beauty of this space truly.

landscaping a small area

 

Mix Ground Cover Materials

When it comes to ground cover materials, there are tons of visually attractive options to choose from. Gravel, pebbles, bark, and slate are a few great options, as they are easy to lay and instantly give your garden more character.

Mixing ground cover materials into patterns or even sporadically can create a truly eye-catching layered effect. This will help make your small garden space unique and ambient with little effort.

If you are concerned that your ground cover materials will harm your grass, consider installing artificial grass instead; it requires no maintenance and remains green all year.

If you are looking at installing artificial grass or other artificial elements such as artificial ivy, contact us!

Select the Right Plants

Choosing the correct selection of plants for a garden with minimal space may seem complicated, but the truth is there are tons of beautiful plants suited to smaller areas.

There are indeed hundreds of plants to choose from that are friendly for small spaces, but a few of our favorites include lavender trees, Japanese maple trees, bamboo, Mexican orange blossoms, and wild olive trees.

These options do not take up much space and do not grow exceptionally tall either, all while being incredibly colorful and easy on the eye. If you do not have the time to maintain your garden often, consider using low-maintenance plants like smaller shrubs and aloes.

Install an In-Ground Plunge Pool

Don’t let your lack of garden space prevent you from installing an attractive and useful fixture or two.

A small in-ground plunge pool is something you can make work in a garden of any size and add a little bit of functionality to your small backyard. Plants and trees may be wonderful to admire, but a small plunge pool is a great way to ensure that your garden can be a place where social gatherings can be hosted, and memories can be made. We all love a little outdoor living.

small space landscaping ideas

Raised Garden Beds

If you don’t have much space to work within your backyard, you may want to consider planting your greenery in raised garden beds.

This gives your backyard a contemporary and visually striking look and is also a great way to maximize the space available.

Raised garden beds will separate your plants from the ground, giving you more room to walk around your own little sanctuary and add other sections like a seating area.

Small Front Yard Landscaping Ideas

 

Use Garden Edging to Zone Your Front Yard

When it comes to your front yard, garden edging is your best friend. Garden edging is a simple yet effective way to create crisp divisions among the different sections of your garden.

When used effectively, garden edging creates a clean-looking front yard by separating your grass from your flower beds, trees, and shrubs and is, therefore, a great way to go about landscaping a small area.

Consider the Hardscape

When you think of landscaping, trees, plants, and grass likely come to mind, but hardscape is equally essential to consider.

While greenery may be the focal point when landscaping a small area, hardscape adds a nice touch of variation and contrast to the front yard’s overall aesthetic. Tiles, pebbles, and paving are all striking hardscape elements to incorporate into the overall design of your small front yard.

small front yard landscaping ideas

Plant Trees and Shrubs

No garden is complete without trees and shrubs, not even smaller landscapes. Adding trees and shrubs to your front yard will help add volume to the space and truly make it pop.

When selecting what trees and shrubs to go with, it is essential to choose options that do not take up too much space, such as pompon trees or hydrangeas.

Create an Interesting Pathway

The focal point of any front yard should always be the pathway leading to your home. After all, this is the first thing guests will see when they arrive at your residence, so try and make it interesting!

Pebbles, crushed stone, and cobblestone tiles are a few of the many excellent materials you may want to consider for this aspect of your landscaping, as they look beautiful alongside the rich green of your front yard.

A Complete Guide to a Drought Tolerant Landscaping

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Landscaping can be pretty challenging if you live in an area with a dry and humid climate. Few plants can survive a hot environment without rain, leaving you with fewer design options. Fortunately, you can use the concept of drought-tolerant landscaping to solve this problem.

This post will discuss how you can create a garden using drought-tolerant plants while using clever landscaping elements.

What Does Drought Tolerant Landscaping Mean?

Drought Tolerant Landscaping is a practice that uses plants and flowers that can adapt to dry conditions as important garden pieces. It uses plants such as geraniums, aloe, and artichokes that won’t wither and can survive with just a tiny amount of water.

Professional landscapers often use this method when installing a garden in places with little to no rainfall. If you live in an area that’s near or within a desert, such as Nevada, you will want to use drought-tolerant gardening.

inexpensive drought tolerant landscaping

Inexpensive Drought Tolerant Landscaping

The best thing about Drought Tolerant Landscaping is that it’s an affordable solution to creating a magnificent garden. Instead of a lush lawn, you fill your front yard with gravel, river stones, permeable paving, and low-maintenance plants that don’t require irrigation.

Furthermore, you can even use Drought Resistant plants, which are a step up from the Drought Tolerant plants. Plants like Japropha can resist the hot climate by storing water in their trunks. Using drought tolerant and drought resistant plants for landscaping is called Xeriscaping.

Below are some ways you can use inexpensive drought tolerant landscaping techniques on your lawn:

  • Reduce Your Lawn

A healthy lawn requires constant watering. However, if you only have minimal water at your disposal, then it’s best to reduce your lawn. The most direct way to shrink your lawn is to cut the ground into square sections using a shovel.

  • Consider Artificial Grass

If you still want some greenery on your lawn, consider installing artificial grass or synthetic turf. They are made from a combination of nylon and other plastic materials that mimics the characteristics of grass. You don’t have to water them, but they also don’t have that sharp scent of natural grass.

  • Make the Most of Mulch

Mulch is often used to cover the surface of the soil. They are made from dead plant parts such as tree bark, leaves, compost, and grass clippings. They can improve soil quality and suppress weeds. Moreover, you can use them to keep the sun’s rays from drying out the ground, saving water.

Front Yard Drought Tolerant Landscaping Ideas

Turning your lawn into a drought-tolerant garden requires creativity and careful planning. Below are some things you should consider:

  • Use Decorative Hardscape Elements

Plants, flowers, and grass aren’t the only things that make your garden attractive. Other hardscape materials, such as gravel, rocks, and even wood, can also elevate the overall aesthetics of your lawn.

  • Group Plants with Similar Water Needs

Arrange your plants according to the amount of water they need and group together those that require more water. Doing so will make it easier to water these plants and prevent them from withering.

  • Water Wisely

When you use native plants with drought-tolerant abilities, make sure not to overwater them. Some plants experience something akin to “drowning” when they are watered excessively. Hence, research when is the best time to water these plants and in what interval to get the best results.

  • Pick Porous Materials

For your lawn’s driveway choose porous materials where water can seep into the soil and rocks below. This method will make it easier to get some needed moisture to the soil underneath. Some porous pavers include gravel, concrete blocks, and asphalt.

front yard drought tolerant landscaping

Choose Ideal Drought-Resistant Plants for Your Drought Tolerant Landscape

When choosing the best drought tolerant plants go for species that require minimal water, especially if you are into conserving water. Here is a short list of native plants that don’t need drip irrigation.

  • Coneflower
  • Agastache
  • Salvia
  • Lavender
  • Drought-Tolerant Shrubs

Tips for Simple Drought Tolerant Landscaping

If you want to create simple drought-tolerant landscaping in your front yard, it’s best to consult a professional to create a landscape design with a drought-tolerant garden. Furthermore, the garden should be able to adapt to dry conditions and the lack of irrigation systems.

  • How to Help Your Plants Survive with Minimal Water

Front yard drought-tolerant landscaping is predicated on the fact that you only need to use minimal water. Below are some things you can do to reduce the amount of water to maintain the plants and flowers in your yard.

    • Apply Mulch

Covering your lawn with mulch protects the soil below from harsh sun rays. Furthermore, it keeps the ground’s moisture and provides nourishment to the plants once the materials decompose.

    • Use Organic Matter

Gardening materials that are made of organic matter absorb less heat than inorganic ones like plastic and steel. Using organic matter will lower the garden’s temperature and lower the risk of your plants withering because of the heat.

    • Avoid Fertilizer

Never use fertilizer on a hot day because it can harden the soil and decrease its fertility. Wait for the colder months of the year to apply them instead.

    • Plant Small Specimens Early

The best time to plant your drought-tolerant plants is in the morning when it’s relatively colder. This method will ensure they won’t dry out as easily during the hotter hours of the day.

Conclusion

If you are looking for the best Las Vegas artificial grass company, then you are in the right place. Our company specializes in Artificial Grass Installation in Las Vegas and nearby areas. We also share drought-tolerant landscaping ideas on a regular basis, so you can set up an awesome garden.

Simple Halloween Ideas For Your Front Yard

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Halloween is one of our favorite holidays. And since it’s almost that time of the year, you need some scary yard decorations for Halloween ideas! But, when it comes to Halloween ideas for the front yard, remember that you don’t need to spend a fortune.

Simple DIY ideas for the front porch, front door, and other areas in your front yard can be quick, easy, and cheap! So get the spray paint, tools, and creativity ready; we’re about to start this scary Halloween party!

Create Yard Signs

Front yard outdoor Halloween decorations start with the yard signs. And the spookier they are, the better. You might want to go for a specific theme – Spider webs, skeleton decorations, scary facial features, vampires – Whatever you choose, get creative with the yard signs and place as many as possible. You can add these signs around your front yard, on playground turf, or anywhere else, so just be creative.

Start outside your property with scary riddles that the kids see as they enter. You could also include “Enter at your own peril” and other spooky messages. Scary yard decorations for Halloween should be a combination of creepy, frightening, and, most all, lots of fun.

Install Halloween Tombstones

One of the best Halloween ideas for your front yard is Halloween tombstones. You could also include characters in Halloween costumes who crawl out from their graves.

You can also mark the tombstones with funny names of characters to add some humor to the mix. Finally, outdoor Halloween decor like Halloween tombstones can add the finishing touches to your front yard decorations. If you decide to apply the idea be careful not to damage your artificial grass.

front yard halloween decorations outdoor

Add Spooky Lighting

Your DIY outdoor Halloween decor isn’t complete without some suitably spooky lighting! Reds, blacks, greens, and white lights can add the perfect scary ambiance to your scary yard decorations for Halloween.

A great idea is to include the lighting over the strategically placed Halloween tombstones, lighting up the funny names written on them. Using the lighting to highlight the other aspects of your scary front yard Halloween decorations would be best. You can also add some lighting to your fake ivy wall which will create an autumn festive mood.

Use At Least One Ghost

Ghosts should be on top of the list of Halloween front lawn ideas. Halloween isn’t Halloween without at least one ghost to frighten that front yard! The more, the merrier, but as long as there’s one, you’ll be OK.

Ghosts, of course, are probably one of the most accessible DIY outdoor Halloween decorations to make. You can use essential items like plastic bags, white sheets, and even paper to shape and mold scary ghosts to place in your front yard. Get creative and include lighting and sound effects to give the trick-or-treaters an extra scare!

Look For Simple Yard Skeleton Ideas

Outdoor skeleton decoration ideas don’t need to be complicated or expensive. You can make use of materials you probably already have at home. Cardboard or standard paper is the perfect base. Trace and then cut out the various parts of the skeleton.

Once you have all the various components, you can tape or glue them together and hang them from the porch or anywhere else in the front yard. Remember that it doesn’t have to be perfect – Halloween is all about creepy and strange things, and a skeleton falling apart in the wind might even be scarier than one that isn’t!

Make Fun Costumes

It’s all about the costumes, so make sure you get creative with this one. These costumes can be displayed in your front yard or worn by you and your family while you parade around the lawn waiting for your visitors!

halloween ideas for front yard

Here are some spooky costume ideas:

  • Stranger Things
  • The Avengers
  • Minions
  • She-Hulk
  • Catwoman
  • Vampires
  • Clowns
  • Skeletons
  • Werewolves
  • Zombies
  • Harley Quinn
  • Cruella De Ville

Turn Your Garage Into a Haunted House

Another great idea is to make use of your garage space. Leave the cars outside for Halloween and turn the space into your haunted house feature! Here’s how to do it.

  • Clear space

The first step is clearing out the vehicles and other unnecessary items. Think of it as an opportunity to get some cleaning done too! Make sure that there’s nothing that can harm the kids. Remember that people should be scared by your decorations, not the terrible state of your garage!

  • Blackout

The best way to set the scene is to use black material to cover the various items left in the garage. Black would work perfectly for this.

  • Make blind corners

Create a little maze inside your garage using plywood and other materials you have handy. This will allow you to place scary traps and surprises along the pathway!

  • Hang ghouls and ghosts from above

You can go crazy here – Secure ghosts, monsters, and other scary characters from the ceiling to create a truly terrifying haunted house experience.

  • Black lights and fog

Get some black lights and a fog machine if you want to go the extra mile. This will add the perfect finishing touches to the scariest haunted house ever.

FAQ

How Can I Decorate My Yard For Halloween?

As mentioned, you don’t need to break the bank. Instead, using the tools and items you have at home, and maybe just one or two extra purchases, you can turn your front yard into Salem’s Lot!

When Should You Decorate For Halloween Outside?

That’s entirely up to you – But we suggest that the sooner you start planning, the better. The ideas may be pretty straightforward, but you probably have a busy schedule, so you’ll need some time to plan it out and set it up. So a month before might be a good time to start the ball rolling.

How Do I Make My Yard Look Spooky For Halloween?

There are many ways to up the scare factor in your front yard. We’ve mentioned lighting, props, ghosts, tombstones, costumes, haunted garages, skeletons, and yard signs.

What Do People Put on Porches And in Doorways on Halloween?

Carved pumpkins are a tradition, but the sky’s the limit. Think cobwebs, creatures, moss, ominous signs, fake blood, scary faces, and anything that ups the spooky factor.

How to Install Artificial Turf On Dirt

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Organic grass might look nice, but it takes time and effort to maintain. Summer periods and droughts make it impossible for your lawn to look perfect. You could also have children and pets running around and ruining the grass.

It’s wise to find an easier and better alternative, and that’s an artificial lawn. You can install this grass over different surfaces, including dirt. This guide has everything you need to know for placing the fake lawn over that surface. Here is how to install artificial turf on dirt and ensure it looks flawless!

Can You Put Artificial Turf Over Dirt?

The short answer is yes, but it’s essential to keep reading for an explanation. Dirt is an uneven surface, so it’s necessary to flatten and prepare it first. That will ensure optimal drainage and minimize the risk of tears and other damage. If you do the turf preparation task well, your fake lawn will look impressive for years!

How to Install Fake Grass on Dirt

Before you learn how to install artificial turf on dirt, you need to prepare the necessary material. Apart from the actual fake grass and infill, you’ll need some adhesive, joining tape, and a broom to brush the surface. Check out the steps you’ll do during the installation!

Measure the Area

The first thing you want to do is measure the area you want to be covered with artificial grass. It ensures you identify the right lawn size to acquire. Additionally, you’ll know the exact surface that requires preparation.

The dimensions are your call, and aesthetics should be the primary consideration. Do you plan fake grass to be the only thing to put above the dirt surface? Perhaps you have a plan for a pathway, fountain, or other fixtures? It’s essential to have a comprehensive landscaping plan. Once that’s ready, you can keep reading our guide on how to install fake grass on dirt.

Prepare the Surface

It might be mostly dirt, but you’ll surely notice some weeds and plants on pieces of turf. You want to remove everything because you don’t want natural vegetation to ruin your fake grass appearance. It will make it look uneven and visually unattractive, so do a thorough job here. If the climate is warm, don’t hesitate to use herbicide, especially if the heat stays over 65 degrees during the night.

Why would I want artificial grass installed

Remove Debris and Natural Turf

It’s not time for turf installation yet. You need to perform another check of the pre-existing soil. It’s necessary to remove the inner layers of the old soil. In other words, you’ll need to dig up to several inches into the ground. Remove the natural grass and any debris you might encounter.

Remove Top Soil

Apart from removing natural grass, it’s necessary to ensure it won’t grow again. So, if you find any plants, remove any roots you encounter. The roots are in the ground, so you need to dig as much as necessary. Pulling plants from the soil without removing the roots won’t be worth much because those herbs can grow again.

Add Subbase Material

If you are installing turf on dirt, it’s now necessary to prepare the subbase material. You can put artificial lawns directly on the surface. Now that you’ve removed all vegetation, you have native soil. It will probably include clay, which expands and contracts throughout the year.

Native soil can lead to uneven surfaces and soft spots. If you want to avoid that happening, it’s necessary to have a subbase material. Decomposed granite is the most common material because it makes an excellent base for artificial lawns. It keeps the soil together and provides a perfect foundation.

Make the Dirt Surface Flat

Begin by adding about 0.25 inches of decomposed granite to the surface. It will act as a foundation. The next step is putting another inch of this material. You want to add granite an inch at a time. Once you place it on the surface, make it wet and use a sod roller to roll the material. The recommendation is that the granite should be level to your grass deck. It reduces the risk of mishaps when someone steps off the lawn.

lay artificial grass

Cut the Fake Grass to Size

All steps until now were preparation, and now it’s time to learn how to install artificial turf on dirt. Lay the grass and cut it to the desired size. The entire idea is that you don’t want it to go on top of the deck. Overlapping isn’t visually attractive, so cutting the fake turf to the desired dimensions is essential.

Layout the Synthetic Grass and Trim the Edges

You are now ready to unroll your artificial grass. You need to check the edges and make the necessary adjustments. You can use a joining tape to connect multiple grass segments together, and don’t forget the importance of an adhesive.

Now, put the infill created of small granules to extend the grass’ longevity. Silica sand or durafill are some common choices for artificial lawns, but you can also use rubber infill. You might need to use a pet waste absorbent as the infill if you have cats or dogs.

Brush the New Turf

The final step is to ensure the infill settles. You’ll need a broom to brush everything properly. It shouldn’t be difficult since you only need to go back and forth.

Artificial turf installations aren’t complex, and they require minimal effort. You also need little time maintaining fake lawns, making them a wise long-term solution. If that like the perfect option for your yard, don’t hesitate to contact us and get the best-quality fake grass in the area!

How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?

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If you are thinking about artificial turf installation for your own home then there are many different things to consider. How long does artificial grass last? Once you have installed it, you don’t want to get a year or two down the line and realize it needs a lot of work done.

Making astroturf last longer can be a good way to get value for your money, and as well as exploring how long different types of synthetic turf can last in this guide, we’re also exploring some tips on making the fake grass last longer.

How Long Does Artificial Turf Last?

If you treat the artificial grass right, it can last for around 8-15 years. This all depends on the maintenance and condition you keep your turf in. Fake grass lasts longer if you are able to take good care of it, and if the conditions are favorable. The amount of use that the grass gets plays a part, too. If you’re using it as a putting green then you might have a lot more foot traffic on the grass.

What Factors Affect the Longevity of Grass and Turf?

There are multiple things that come into play regarding the longevity of synthetic turf. Thinking about getting your front lawn covered? Be sure to give these factors some thought.

  • The Quality Of Materials

How long does astroturf last? Does this vary when compared to other forms of synthetic lawn surface? If you want longevity, it makes perfect sense to invest in the best quality of grass that you can. If you’re at this stage in landscape design, spend some time researching the artificial grass materials and choosing the best for your own yard space.

  • The Quality Of Installation

Artificial Grass installation is crucial. There is no point in having quality materials if it isn’t properly installed, as this can make the grass decay much more quickly. Always get your artificial grass professionally installed. Contact us to seek advice from professionals and explore installation options.

fake grass last

How to Make Your Artificial Grass Lawn Last Longer

You’ll want to get the most out of your investment, so how do you keep the astroturf lasting longer and retain the pristine look that you get when the lawn is first installed?

Proper Maintenance

Always follow the maintenance tips you are given when you get your turf installed. How long artificial turf lasts depends on whether you follow the specific maintenance schedule needed for that style of turf, and there are multiple materials and styles available. Most manufacturers will provide maintenance details for you to follow.

Remove Leaves and Debris

Leaves and debris can get stuck in the grass, making it look a lot worse and even causing it to degrade more quickly. You can remove these with a stiff brush to keep the green and clean look.

Keep It Clean

This means picking up any mess from the pets, or anything spilled on the grass. These can make the grass smell bad, and can even make it less safe to spend time on. This is extra important if you’ve got kids walking around. You can even use some mild detergents to get rid of any bacteria and make sure you’ve always got a clean surface (check the type of artificial grass and which cleaning products are compatible. Artificial grass should drain perfectly allowing you to hose and wash down the surface as required.

Brush Your Lawn Regularly

Most of the time, the lawn will clean itself and debris will get washed away, but regular brushing can help you to ensure that there aren’t smaller items of debris getting stuck in the artificial grass so that it is in the same condition as the day you got your artificial grass installed.

Minor Repairs

It is much better to get the minor repairs tackled rather than let them become big problems. The fake grass lasts a lot less time if there is a small tear or an area that becomes frayed, and you let this spread to more areas of the yard. Instead, when you spot a small area that needs repairs, contact the professionals and make sure it doesn’t get any worse.

Landscaping 101: Easy Landscaping Ideas for Beginners

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Is it time to redecorate your backyard? Whether you bought a new house or want to improve the current one, landscaping is the best way to boost curb value. It’ll also ensure you enjoy spending time and relaxing in your yard. There’s no need to be an expert to make your garden beautiful. Our landscaping 101 guide is the perfect place to start. Check out our guide on easy landscaping ideas for beginners to ensure the project goes smoothly!

Landscaping 101: How to Get Started

Begin by imagining how you’d like your garden to look. Are there any specific water features outdoor areas should have? Would you like to get a pool plan or pathway for cars? Will there be pets or kids to use the yard?

Create a wishlist and add all items you’d prefer in the backyard. Once you read the easy landscaping guidelines, you might give up a few depending on budget, maintenance requirements, etc.

Easy Landscaping Starts with a Plan

If a project is to be successful, you need to start with a plan. The three main areas to follow in landscaping for beginners include:

  • Set a budget. The ideas you’ll go with will depend on the available funds. While setting a budget, be realistic in assessing the costs of different fixtures. Also, consider the project would cost at least 10% more than planned due to unforeseeable expenses.
  • Evaluate your landscape needs. Is there an incline you’d like to flatten? What about the watering requirement of your yard? Apart from landscape needs, consider your preferences, such as fences, private areas, etc.
  • Figure out where you need help. Simple backyard landscaping could be handled by a homeowner. But if the project seems ambitious, find landscapers, verify their professional licenses, and hire their services. Feel free to contact us, and we can assist in any landscaping project phase where you feel it’s necessary.

landscaping for beginners

Choose Your Style

Sticking to easy landscaping ideas for beginners includes choosing a style and holding to it. That could be:

  • Formal. It’s suitable for corporate garden designs and those pursuing an elegant backyard. The formal style follows symmetry and straight lines. Fountains and statues, but also well-maintained hedges and grass, are another characteristic, indicating demanding lawn care for this style.
  • Natural. It’s the foundation of simple backyard landscaping. The low-maintenance approach allows luscious plants and natural abundance without much human intervention.
  • Informal. It’s a crossover between the two easy landscaping styles mentioned above. You can choose areas with more elegance and leave other zones to be “more natural.”

Consider the Texture, Colors, and Forms

The interior style requires considering furniture, materials, and paint. But landscaping 101 demands assessing the texture, colors, and forms of plants and other garden elements. You want the herbs, statues, and other items chosen to blend well. Asking professionals for landscape tips could help.

Simple Backyard Landscaping

The idea of easy landscaping ideas for beginners is to avoid over-complicating things. Here’s what Las Vegas landscapers suggest for any garden:

  • Balance hardscape and softscape. Pergolas, walls, fountains, and pathways are hardscapes. Trees, shrubs, and grass are softscapes. Easy front yard landscaping requires balancing the two to optimize the area’s appearance.
  • Think about outdoor elements. Consider the best landscape lighting features for your garden. Do you need more illumination, or is accent lighting enough? Another important element of landscaping for beginners includes water features. Fountains could improve the area’s visual appeal and have a cooling effect on hot summer evenings.
  • Make it functional. Can you place shrubs instead of a fence? Could you add a fire pit that will keep you warm and gather people in the evening? Easy landscaping ideas for beginners shouldn’t ignore functionality.

Easy Front Yard Landscaping

Begin by analyzing the front yard to the smallest detail. Think about the landscaping that fits your house exterior but also blends well with the neighborhood. Head to the house’s entrance to see how it looks from afar.
Easy front yard landscaping begins by placing the driveway for your vehicle. Walkways and stairs are next and don’t forget fences and porches.

simple backyard landscaping

Choose the Right Plants

After placing the hardscapes, you can move to choose plants for the front yard. Here are the best options:

  • Ground covers and shrubs. From edible herbs to those that could serve as foundational plants, pick your favorites.
  • Lawn areas. Mark lawn areas, and don’t forget to ensure optimal irrigation. Landscapers also recommend artificial grass installation as an option as it can reduce the amount of time and money you need to spend on keeping your yard looking good. There are different types of artificial grass and you should choose the one that is suitable for your outdoor space. Feel free to contact us and we will assist you in choosing the fake grass that fits your backyard the most.
  • Trees and flowers. A tree creates shade and has a huge impact on the overall front yard appearance. Flowers add beauty but will need regular care.

Choose the Right Time to Start Your Landscaping Project

According to experts, you should begin turning your landscaping ideas into reality in April, May, or September. If you do this during spring, plants will have enough time to grow before the winter. But some experts indicate early fall is an excellent choice. It ensures lower humidity and optimal temperatures, giving enough time to develop a root system and get stronger for the next season.

Don’t neglect different durations of landscaping projects. Small front yard changes only take a couple of days. But landscaping a big garden could require months. Feel free to contact a professional landscaper to discover the best course of action for your yard!

Putting Green Design Ideas: How To Build An Artificial Putting Green In Your Backyard

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It takes a considerable effort to maintain natural putting greens on golf courses. These surfaces are almost impossible to have at home. But if you are a golf fan, adding an artificial putting green to your backyard is the perfect alternative. Here is what you need to know about these surfaces!

What Is Putting Green Turf?

An artificial putting green is a fake grass with a low pile height that supports golf ball movement. These surfaces are lower than the fake turf you use for the lawn to ensure the ball rolls smoothly. Manufacturers use synthetic fiber, and the idea is to resemble the grass used on actual golf courses.

How to Choose the Best Artificial Turf for Putting Green

You need an outdoor putting green turf that can handle environmental factors. It shouldn’t fade under the influence of UV rays, and it should be capable of resisting rain and other weather conditions. Here are the main features to consider when choosing the putting green surface!

Putting Green Turf

Face Weight and Pile Height

It described how much your outdoor putting green surface weighs per square yard. You’ll find the standard turfs to be from 21 to 40 oz. But if you want a top-quality putting green, go with 41 to 60 oz. The additional material will make your turf denser, which improves its longevity.
Another thing to consider is the pile height, which describes the turf’s thickness. Outdoor fake grass for gold should be from 0.5 to 0.75 inches thick. It ensures golf balls move smoothly.

Stimp Rating

This rating shows how fast a golf ball rolls on the surface. If the artificial turf putting green has a high stimp rating, the ball will move fast. You measure this reading by using a Stimpmeter. It’s a metal ramp you use to check how far the ball will go on the chosen surface.

Here are the three main categories of Stimp ratings recommended by UGSA and US Open

  • Slow. The stimp reading is anywhere from 4.5 to 6.5 feet.
  • Medium. It’s for the ratings between 6.5 and 8.5 feet.
  • Fast. If the rating is 8.5 to 10.5 feet, you get a fast surface.

You can adjust the velocity by manipulating the infill quantity. If you add infill, it will boost the speed of your putting green surface.

backyard putting green Turf Material

Synthetic fibers are the primary material for artificial turfs, and manufacturers choose the following for putting green surfaces:

  • Nylon. It’s the most common and durable option. It can withstand heavy traffic, and it’s resistant to fire. However, nylon is sensitive to UV rays, so it could fade over time.
  • Polyethylene. Manufacturers use recycled plastics to make this fiber. It’s resistant to sunlight and non-abrasive. Add an affordable price, and you get an excellent option for outdoor fake turfs.
  • Polypropylene. It’s also resistant to the sun and fire, but you need to choose a suitable option. Polypropylene is mildly abrasive, which makes it durable even during frequent use.

Color of Artificial Putting Green

It’s a putting green surface, so the color would obviously be green. However, you can pick from multiple shades. You want fake turf that looks realistic but also one that fits your outdoor area. So, when thinking about a small backyard putting green ideas, match it with the rest of the setup in your garden.

outdoor putting green

How to Build a Backyard Putting Green

If you get a green kit, make sure to follow the instructions provided. But if you want to install the artificial grass yourself, here’s a quick guide:

  1. Pick the location and size. For example, you can go with a single hole in a small backyard or a large putting green surface in big gardens.
  2. Mark the area. Once you do, take out the sod within its limits and pick up all debris.
  3. Excavate the zone. Use a weed killer and put landscape fabric to prevent it from growing.
  4. Place the cups. You can dig small trenches to drain rainwater.
  5. Design the base. Spread crushed stone evenly and run a lawn roller to make the ground smooth. Remove the stone and use a shovel to make cup holes.
  6. Pre-shrink the surface. Do this only if the instructions say so, but please note this step will take at least a day.
  7. Position the turf. You can use a utility knife to cut it where necessary. Use landscape staples or turf pegs to secure the putting green.
  8. Place a border. It’s easiest to put a retaining wall.

How Much Does a Backyard Putting Green Cost?

If you go with a DIY kit, you’ll pay anywhere from $6 to $18 per square foot. The price depends on the quality and the brand. As for the standard packages, the cost per square foot decreases with large sizes.

For example, if you pick a small putting green, it might cost you $30+ per sq. ft. But if you need more than 2,000 sq. ft, that price can drop to $15 per square foot. Contact our team to learn more!

How to Choose the Best Fake Grass for Balcony

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You live in urban surroundings but are blessed with a balcony. These outdoor surfaces are perfect for relaxing alone and hanging out with friends. If you want to make them more attractive, how about using fake grass for the balcony?

It can be an excellent addition to your rooftop, but you need to choose a suitable turf. Check out this guide to learn how to select the best fake grass for your roof garden!

Can You Lay Fake Grass on a Balcony?

Do you own the balcony or have a license to make changes to it? First, check with the local community to ensure you aren’t breaking any regulations. As long as you aren’t violating any rule, feel free to place artificial turf on the balcony.

The main benefits of using fake grass for balconies include:

  • You won’t increase the building’s temperature.
  • Artificial turf is resistant to rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
  • It’s perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunshine.
  • You can improve the curb appeal and overall property value.

fake grass for balcony

What to Look for in Artificial Grass

You need fake turf that will look great and last for years. It’s why you should stick to reliable suppliers and brands. Adding infill can extend the longevity of artificial grass, so make sure to choose silica stands or crushed rubber. Now, here are the features to assess to ensure the turf meets your expectations!

Texture

The texture depends on the blade’s firmness, which affects the feeling when walking over the turf. If you go with soft blades, you’ll love stepping on them. However, they aren’t as durable as hard blades. If you expect heavy traffic on your deck, pick a more rigid texture to extend the durability.

Density

The density shows strands per sq. ft. If you go with a dense option, the turf will look more natural. Some might not even notice it’s fake. But if the density is low, it’ll be easier to figure out the grass is artificial. On the other hand, a lower density decreases the turf’s overall cost.

Length

This refers to the height of your fake grass for patio. The usual height is around a single inch above the ground, although there are various options available. Unless you plan to play golf, this shouldn’t make much difference in how your patio looks.

Material

You can pick from three different options:

  • Nylon. It will be a significant investment, but it can withstand foot traffic.
  • Polypropylene. It’s an affordable material, but its durability isn’t impressive.
  • Polyethylene. This synthetic fiber offers a soft touch and a natural appearance.

 

landscaping 101

How to Take Care of Artificial Grass on a Balcony

The great thing about the artificial grass for balconies is that artificial turf requires minimal maintenance. Check out these tips to maintain it in perfect condition:

  • Remove stains with a hose. If you can’t use a hose on your balcony, a bucket of water is enough. The drainage should take care of all the water. Once the turf is dry, use a mild fragrance.
  • Use a water-vinegar mix for persistent stains. Grab a small bucket and combine water and vinegar. Take a cloth and wipe the stain to eliminate it.
  • Remove dust and leaves with a vacuum cleaner. If you have a large rooftop covered by artificial turf, an air blower could assist, too.
  • Straighten the crushed tips occasionally. You can use a hard broom to make the crushed areas vertical.
    If necessary, call a professional to perform regular maintenance of your artificial turf.

How to Install Fake Grass on Balcony

You made up your mind and acquired fake turf, and it’s now the time to install artificial grass. Here is how to get your balcony revamped by adding artificial turf to it!

Prepare the Surface

It’s imperative to check the balcony and turf surfaces. As for the balcony, it’s better if the concrete is the material under the fake grass. It’s essential to even the balcony surface, which you can do by adding a foam underlay. As for the artificial turf, remove any dirt that got stuck to ensure a smooth installation.

artificial grass for balcony

Measure the Balcony

You picked the fake grass size closest to your balcony’s dimensions. However, it will be necessary to cut the turf, which is why you should mark it first. Next, check the width and length of the area where you want to place the grass. Add several inches to have wiggle room, and mark those dimensions on the fake turf.

Prepare a Fake Grass Layout

If you have everything ready, it’s time to unroll the fake grass. Position it to cover the area to position it. If you are working to cover large zones, you could use a helping hand. Once you lay everything out, it’s time for the next step.

Trim the Fake Grass to the Right Size

You can mark the area to cut with chalk or another market. Use a utility knife or any other tool that can make adequate cuts. Try to follow the line carefully to ensure an optimal turf appearance.

If you need to join grass sections, you can use joining tape. However, glue is necessary at the edges. It ensures your fake turf stays in place. Once you finish gluing, press the turf to ensure it bonds better to the surface below.