Lawn Turf vs Artificial Turf: A Sunshine Coast Perspective by Rosemount Turf

You have probably seen the ads, incredible looking lawn, but it’s not real! Many homeowners on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, often grapple with the decision between natural lawn turf and artificial turf. As a leading supplier of natural lawn turf in the region, Rosemount Turf understands the nuances of this choice and we would like to offer our perspective to help you make an informed decision. That said we do love the real stuff so we may be just a little bit biased.

Natural Lawn Turf: The Living Carpet

Natural lawn turf, such as the varieties supplied by Rosemount Turf, offer a living, breathing option for your garden. It’s not just about the lush green appearance; natural turf plays a crucial role in the environment. It produces oxygen, supports biodiversity, and helps in cooling the surrounding area, which can be particularly beneficial during warm Sunshine Coast summers like this one.

Pros:

• Environmental Benefits: Natural turf absorbs carbon dioxide, releases oxygen, and can help in soil erosion control.
• Aesthetic and Comfort: There’s an undeniable appeal to the natural look and feel of real grass. It’s also cooler underfoot compared to artificial turf.
• Variety: Options like Sir Walter DNA Certified Buffalo, Sir Grtange and Zoysia Australis cater to different needs, from shade tolerance to drought resistance.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Requires regular mowing, watering, and fertilising.
• Water Usage: Can be a concern during drought conditions.
• Pest and Disease Management: Might require treatments to maintain health.

Artificial Turf: The Low-Maintenance Alternative

Artificial turf has gained popularity for its low maintenance requirements and year-round green appearance. It can be a practical solution for areas where growing natural grass is challenging, such as small apartments and town houses, poor soil conditions or maybe in extreme shade areas.

Pros:

• Low Maintenance: No mowing, watering, or fertilising required.
• Durability: Withstands heavy foot traffic and is not affected by pests or diseases.
• Water Conservation: Ideal in areas with water restrictions or drought conditions.

Cons:

• Environmental Impact: Made from synthetic materials and doesn’t offer the environmental benefits of natural turf.
• Heat Absorption: Can become hot to touch in direct sunlight.
• Lifespan and Disposal: Has a finite lifespan and can be challenging to dispose of in an environmentally friendly manner.
• Pet Unfriendly: Due to our Sunny weather, the heat can also be dangerous to our furry friends.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between natural lawn turf and artificial turf depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, environmental concerns, and maintenance preferences. For those who value the ecological benefits and natural beauty of a living lawn, natural turf is the way to go. However, if your priority is minimal maintenance and you have challenging growing conditions, artificial turf could be the more practical choice however:

Artificial Lawn Alternatives

If conditions are not perfect for organic Turf you can also consider some other natural alternatives to artificial lawn. One such alternative is the use of Aussie native ground cover plants, which can thrive in a variety of conditions where grass might struggle. Plants like the native Kidney Weed (Dichondra repens) or the Australian native violet (Viola hederacea) provide a lush, green appearance with the added benefits of being low maintenance and drought-resistant. These native ground covers require less water and care than traditional lawns, and they blend seamlessly into the Australian landscape, supporting local ecosystems.

Another innovative solution is the creation of a garden landscape that incorporates elements such as mulch, pebbles, or wood chips, which can be particularly effective in areas prone to shade or poor drainage. These materials can be used to design aesthetically pleasing, functional spaces that require minimal upkeep compared to traditional lawns. Incorporating native shrubs like the resilient Westringia, the versatile Lomandra, and ornamental grasses such as Kangaroo Grass (Themeda triandra) or Wallaby Grass (Rytidosperma) can add texture and colour, creating a diverse ecosystem that supports local wildlife. Both these alternatives not only circumvent the challenges posed by less-than-ideal conditions for grass growth but also contribute positively to the Australian environment, enhancing biodiversity and reducing the ecological footprint of a traditional lawn.

Conclusion

At Rosemount Turf, we provide the Sunshine Coast with top-quality natural lawn turf and expert advice. Whether you decide on natural or artificial turf, it’s essential to consider the long-term impact on your lifestyle and the environment. Feel free to contact us for more guidance on selecting the perfect turf for your needs.