The Ugly Truth About Artificial Turf: Why It’s Not as Green as You Think...

Artificial turf might seem like a low-maintenance, always green solution for your yard, but there’s a lot lurking beneath its plastic surface. Before you swap out natural turf for synthetic grass, here are some major “icks” that might make you think twice.

1. Scorching Hot Underfoot

One of the biggest complaints about artificial grass is how hot it gets in the sun. Unlike real grass, which helps cool the air, artificial turf absorbs and retains heat. On a scorching summer day, it can become unbearably hot, too hot for pets, kids, and anyone who wants to walk barefoot outside. With Ord Valley Turf’s Empire Zoysia, you get a cooler, more comfortable surface all year round.

2. Smells Like Trouble

Pet owners, beware! Artificial grass traps odours, especially pet urine, which doesn’t break down naturally as it would in real grass. Even with regular cleaning, lingering smells can become a problem, making your yard less enjoyable.

3. Harsh & Unforgiving

Unlike natural grass, which provides a soft cushion underfoot, artificial turf can feel rough and abrasive. Falls on artificial grass often result in carpet burn-like injuries, not exactly ideal for kids who love to run and play. Empire Zoysia (the real stuff!!) provides a softer, safer play area for families and pets.

4. Not So Eco-Friendly

Despite its “green” appearance, artificial turf is anything but environmentally friendly. It’s made from plastic and non-biodegradable materials, meaning once it’s worn out, it ends up at the tip in landfill. Plus, the production process isn’t exactly sustainable. Empire Zoysia helps the environment by absorbing carbon dioxide, releasing oxygen, and supporting local ecosystems.

5. Weeds Still Happen

Think artificial turf means saying goodbye to weeds? Think again. Weeds can grow through seams and drainage holes, meaning you’ll still need to spend time removing them or using herbicides. With proper lawn care and high-quality turf from Ord Valley Turf, you can maintain a weed-free, thriving lawn naturally.

6. Kills Soil Health

Natural grass helps nourish the soil by promoting healthy microbial activity. Artificial turf, on the other hand, suffocates the ground beneath it, leading to compacted, lifeless soil that’s unable to support future plant growth.

7. No Cooling Effect

Real grass plays a huge role in cooling its surroundings, which is why parks and backyards feel so refreshing. Artificial turf, however, can raise surface temperatures significantly, making outdoor spaces much hotter than they need to be.

8. Fading & Flattening Over Time

Artificial grass might look perfect when it’s first installed, but exposure to the sun and regular foot traffic causes it to fade and flatten. Over time, synthetic blades lose their structure and resilience, making your lawn look patchy and tired.

9. Water Still Needed

Artificial turf is often marketed as a water-saving alternative, but it still needs to be rinsed to remove dust, dirt, and pet waste. This means you’re still using water to maintain it, just in a less natural way. Choosing drought-tolerant turf like Empire Zoysia ensures a low-water, eco-friendly lawn solution that thrives in your environment.

10. Expensive to Install and Replace

The upfront cost of artificial turf is high, and while it’s meant to last a while, it eventually wears out. Replacing artificial grass every 10–15 years isn’t just costly, it also means another round of plastic waste heading to landfill.

The Verdict? Real Turf Wins Every Time

While artificial turf might seem convenient at first glance, the long-term downsides outweigh the benefits. Real grass provides a natural cooling effect, supports soil health, and looks better for years to come.

If you’re looking for a lush, natural lawn that thrives in Northern Australia, skip the plastic and choose the real deal with Ord Valley Turf. Contact us today for expert advice and high-quality turf that transforms your outdoor space!