The debate between real and artificial turf is one that many Australian home and business owners face when planning their properties, be it a yard, a park, or garden. While synthetic grass might seem like a practical solution for a low-maintenance lawn, the benefits of non-artificial grass—from environmental sustainability to long-term cost-effectiveness—make real lawn turf the superior choice. In this article, we explore the reasons that make natural turf varieties like Sir Walter, Empire, Nara, Augusta Zoysia, Sapphire Buffalo, Couch, and IronCutter Hybrid Bermuda not only better for the environment but also enhance your property’s beauty, functionality, and value. Let’s start with some basic questions:

FAQs: Real Turf vs. Artificial Grass

Q: Does real grass require more maintenance?
A: Modern varieties like Sir Walter need only scheduled mowing and occasional watering, making them cost-effective and low-effort.

Q: Can I install turf myself?
A: Yes! With proper soil prep and guidance, DIY installation is achievable. However, professional services ensure optimal results.

Q: Is artificial turf safe for pets?
A: Artificial lawns can overheat and harbour bacteria.You have to wash them to get rid of urine and fecal matter. Natural turf is cooler, cleaner, and non-toxic for pets.

Q: Which turf is best for areas that get less sun?
A: Augusta Zoysia thrives in shade, making it a popular choice for gardens with limited sunlight.

What makes natural turf better?

1. Environmental Benefits: Real Turf Supports a Healthier Planet

Artificial turf, often made from recycled plastic and synthetic materials, has gained traction as a popular choice for its “no-mow” appeal. However, natural grass offers irreplaceable ecological advantages:

Carbon Dioxide Absorption: A living natural lawn absorbs CO2 and releases oxygen, improving air quality. Did you know that a 250-square-metre natural lawn can offset the annual carbon emissions of a family car?
Heat Reduction: Real grass turf cools the air through evaporation, reducing the effects of urban heat island phenomenon. Artificial lawns, conversely, can reach temperatures up to 70°C in summer, making them unsafe for kids and pets.
Biodiversity Support: Natural grass supports soil health, insects, and microorganisms. Although some people prefer how synthetic grass creates a sterile environment, this actually disrupts local ecosystems.
Water Management: Modern turf varieties like Ironcutter Hybrid Bermuda are bred for drought tolerance. While artificial turf needs no watering, it contributes to stormwater runoff that can pick up pollutants like oil, grease, and chemicals, potentially damaging water quality and ecosystems. Moreover, they also add to landfill waste once discarded.

Did You Know?
Recent studies found that natural grass in urban areas reduces ambient temperatures while plastic-based synthetic grass temperature easily exceeds the 48 °C skin burn threshold. For families with pets, real turf means a cooler, safer yard during scorching summers.

2. Cost-Effectiveness: Real Turf Pays Off Over Time

Aside from the fact that artificial grass has a higher upfront cost (averaging AUD 50–100 per square metre installed), real grass is far more cost-effective in the long run:

Lower Initial Investment: Laying turf costs from 10 to 50 dollars per square metre, including soil preparation and installation.
Longevity: A well-maintained natural lawn lasts decades. Artificial turf typically degrades in 8–15 years, requiring costly landfill replacement.
Added Property Value: Homes with natural lawns attract buyers seeking green spaces for pets, recreation, or gardening. Artificial lawns can deter eco-conscious buyers.

For commercial projects like sports fields or office complexes, natural turf also reduces long-term maintenance expenses. IronCutter Hybrid Bermuda, for example, is a cost-effective choice for golf courses due to its durability and minimal need for frequent mowing.

3. Aesthetic & Functional Advantages: Beauty Meets Practicality

Natural turf offers unmatched sensory appeal and versatility:

Soft, Safe Surface: Real grass is gentle on bare feet, making it ideal for backyards with kids and active pets. Artificial grass can cause abrasions and burns in hot weather.
Adaptive Growth: Turf varieties like shade-tolerant Nara and Empire Zoysia can thrive in 40-50% shade. Synthetic grass lacks this adaptability and can suffer from uneven discoloration..
Overall Health – Lawn is a natural product whereas synthetic ones retain germs and overall can be very unhygienic

Homeowners with shade-heavy gardens often opt for Sapphire Buffalo, Sir Walter, and Augusta Zoysia, which are natural grass varieties that thrive under trees or beside buildings. Unlike artificial lawns, which struggle with drainage in covered areas, these options can maintain their vibrant colours and soft textures, winning the votes of families with pets.

4. Real Turf for Every Lifestyle

Whether you’re a busy homeowner or managing commercial projects, there’s a grass type to suit your needs:

Families with Kids & Pets: Durable varieties like Empire and Sir Walter handle heavy foot traffic, recover quickly from wear, and are non-toxic.
Shade-Prone Gardens: Shade-tolerant options thrive very well under trees or beside buildings.
Low-Maintenance Yards: IronCutter Hybrid Bermuda, a fine-leafed, high-performing grass helps avoid the potential higher costs and establishment challenges.

Pro Tip: For a new lawn, opt for IronCutter Hybrid Bermuda—its deep roots reduce weeds and thrive in diverse soil conditions.

5. Choosing the Best Turf Variety

Australia’s climate demands resilient grass types. Here’s a quick guide:

Turf Variety	Key Features
Sir Walter	Drought-tolerant, shade-tolerant, low-maintenance, suits most soil types.
Sapphire Buffalo	Soft texture, thrives in 30–70% shade, perfect for families with pets.
Empire	slow-growing, handles heavy use (ideal for sports fields).
IroncCutter Hybrid Bermuda	Excels in full sun, moderate shade, and drought conditions

6. Installation & Maintenance Tips

Laying turf is a straightforward process, but success depends on proper care, too:

Soil Preparation: Test your soil pH and amend with organic matter. Ensure good drainage to prevent weeds.
Watering: Water deeply for 2–3 weeks post-installation. Mature lawns need less water—about 25mm weekly.
Regular Mowing: Keep grass at 3–5 cm height. Sir Walter and Kikuyu benefit from weekly mowing in summer.
Weed & Pest Control: Healthy natural turf resists weeds and pests. Use organic treatments if issues arise.

Unlike synthetic grass, which is derived from plastic polymers, organic turf supports microbes and reduces carbon dioxide. For golf courses and sports fields, this translates to a safer, cooler playing surface.

Conclusion: The Natural Choice Wins

While artificial turf might seem tempting, natural turf offers unmatched environmental, financial, and aesthetic benefits. From CO2 absorption, to creating a safe play area for kids, and complementing your property’s reputation, a natural lawn turf is a sustainable, cost-effective investment.

For families seeking an instant lawn that feels great, resilient, and eco-friendly, explore turf varieties like Sir Walter. Visit our online store or contact our team to find the best turf for your yard.

Ready to Transform Your Yard?

Choose natural turf for a lush, sustainable natural lawn that enhances your property and the planet. Explore our range of turf varieties today—your backyard deserves nothing less!