How to replace artificial grass with real grass?

In recent years, we’ve started to notice that artificial grass has fallen out of fashion somewhat. 

Although it offers a lot of appeal in terms of low (almost zero!) maintenance requirements, we’ve increasingly seen that eco-conscious homeowners are preferring more natural, wildlife-friendly gardens. 

In this article, we’ve explored why people are starting to replace their artificial grass. Then, for anyone that’s considering going back to planting real grass, we’ve outlined the step by step process for replacing artificial grass with real grass.

 

Why is artificial grass being used less often? 

So, why is it that people are starting to turn away from artificial grass? 

Well, it’s due to a number of key factors, mostly environmental and aesthetic.

The main reasons why fewer people are choosing artificial turf are:

• Plastic waste – As artificial grass is made from plastic, it contributes to plastic pollution. 
• Environmental concerns – The use of plastic in artificial grass means that it poses a number of other environmental issues. This includes the fact that it retains heat (making gardens hotter), inhibits proper water drainage (reducing soil health), and doesn’t provide any benefit to bees or other garden wildlife.
• Aesthetic decline – In many cases, property owners find that artificial grass can start to look worn or unnatural over time. This is most common if the artificial grass has been incorrectly installed or poorly maintained.
• Encouragement from the local community – In some cases, local councils have discouraged property owners from buying artificial grass, due to the factors listed above.

If you have artificial grass on your property and are facing any of these issues, don’t worry – replacing your artificial grass with real grass is actually easier than you think. 

 

The appeal of real grass

But first, let’s explore the fantastic benefits of real turf (which artificial grass can’t compete with!). 

The advantages of choosing real grass include:

• Supporting biodiversity in your garden 
• Helping to protect threatened local wildlife species, like bees and hedgehogs 
• Improving temperature regulation, keeping your garden cooler 
• Improving soil conditions, with far better drainage 
• Achieving a more natural look and feel 

 

How to replace artificial grass with real grass

 

1. Calculate how much turf you need

Measure the length and width of your lawn area. Then, we recommend adding an extra 5-10% to your calculation, to allow a bit extra (for cutting, shaping and human error). Then, calculate how many square metres of turf or seed you’ll need.

 

2. Remove the artificial grass

Carefully remove the artificial turf. Start by removing any pins, staples or adhesives that are in place. Then, dispose of it carefully (we recommend speaking to your local recycling centre, as they will be able to advise you).

 

3. Remove the sub-base layer

Then, you can remove the sub-base layer that sits underneath your turf. Usually, this consists of sharp sand or aggregate. Again, you will need to dispose of this in a responsible way. Depending on the size of your turf, you may need to hire a skip.

 

4. Prepare the soil

To promote the healthy growth of your new turf, you will need to create the best conditions within your soil. 

You can do this by raking the ground (we recommend doing this to a depth of 10-15cm) to ensure any compacted soil is broken up. This is a great, low-effort way to improve your soil’s structure and fertility. Once finished, lightly roll the lawn flat, to ensure the surface is even.

 

5. Lay your new turf

Lay down your new turf rolls, and press it down firmly. Once laid, water the entire area thoroughly, and ensure foot traffic is minimised for the first few weeks. 

 

6. Ongoing maintenance

From there, you can keep your new grass vibrant and healthy by:

• Avoiding cutting the grass for the first 2-3 weeks
• Then, keeping blades high for the first 2-3 mows
• Watering regularly (particularly in the first few weeks)
• Feeding it with a balanced lawn fertiliser twice a year 

And there you have it! Real, lush green grass in just a few steps. 

 

If you’re excited to get real grass back in your garden, the Buckley Turf team are on hand to help.

With over 50 years of experience in lawn turfing, our skilled team grows our own turf locally, and even offers turf laying services. To find out more, or to receive a free on-site visit or advice, don’t hesitate to get in touch.