When it comes to landscaping in Los Angeles, homeowners are faced with a crucial decision—whether to install artificial turf or stick with traditional natural grass. With the sunny weather and frequent droughts in Southern California, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of each option. In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between artificial turf and natural grass, helping you decide which is the best choice for your LA home.

Water Usage

• Artificial Turf:
  One of the most significant advantages of artificial turf is its water efficiency. With LA’s drought conditions and strict water regulations, artificial turf saves an average of 44,000 gallons of water per year for a typical household. No watering is needed, making it a great choice for homeowners looking to conserve water and lower their utility bills.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass requires consistent watering, especially in LA’s hot, dry climate. Keeping a lawn green and lush can result in significant water usage, which not only impacts the environment but also leads to higher water bills. In times of drought, maintaining a healthy lawn can be both costly and challenging.

Winner: Artificial Turf (for water conservation)

Maintenance

• Artificial Turf:
  Artificial turf is incredibly low-maintenance. You don’t need to mow, fertilize, or water it. Occasional cleaning and brushing are usually enough to keep it looking fresh and green year-round. For busy homeowners or those who don’t enjoy regular lawn care, this is a major benefit.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass, on the other hand, requires regular mowing, fertilizing, aerating, and pest control. In LA, where warm temperatures encourage rapid grass growth, this maintenance can become time-consuming and costly, especially if you hire professional services to care for your lawn.

Winner: Artificial Turf (for minimal maintenance)

Aesthetic Appeal

• Artificial Turf:
  Modern artificial turf has come a long way in terms of appearance. High-quality options are designed to mimic the look and feel of natural grass. However, some homeowners may still prefer the authentic texture and variability of real grass, especially up close. That said, artificial turf stays lush and green year-round, without any brown patches or bald spots.
• Natural Grass:
  Nothing beats the feel of real grass underfoot. Natural grass has a softer, more natural feel, and some homeowners love the look of freshly mowed grass. However, in LA’s climate, natural grass can develop brown patches during the summer or dry seasons, detracting from its aesthetic appeal.

Winner: It’s a tie! (Natural grass for texture lovers, artificial turf for year-round greenness)

Environmental Impact

• Artificial Turf:
  While artificial turf saves water, there are some environmental concerns to consider. It’s made from synthetic materials, and its production and eventual disposal can have an environmental footprint. However, by eliminating the need for pesticides and fertilizers, it avoids harmful chemicals running off into the ecosystem.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass provides some environmental benefits, like cooling the surrounding air and supporting biodiversity. But to maintain a healthy lawn, many homeowners rely on fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides, which can leach into local waterways, harming wildlife. Plus, the water and energy required to maintain a lawn add up over time.

Winner: Artificial Turf (for water and chemical savings)

Durability and Longevity

• Artificial Turf:
  Artificial turf can last 15-20 years or more, even with heavy foot traffic. It’s also more resistant to weather changes, which means it won’t develop mud or puddles after rain. Additionally, it doesn’t suffer damage from pets digging or rough play from children.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass can wear down with frequent use, especially in high-traffic areas like walkways or where pets roam. You may need to reseed or re-sod these areas frequently. It’s also susceptible to weather conditions, developing mud, brown spots, or bald patches during periods of heavy use or extreme heat.

Winner: Artificial Turf (for durability and longevity)

Cost

• Artificial Turf:
  The initial cost of installing artificial turf can be higher than natural grass, typically ranging from $12 to $19 per square foot. However, the long-term savings from reduced water usage and maintenance often make it a cost-effective choice over time.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass is cheaper to install upfront but requires ongoing costs for water, fertilizers, pest control, and regular maintenance. Over the years, these costs can add up, making natural grass potentially more expensive in the long run.

Winner: Artificial Turf (for long-term savings)

Heat Retention

• Artificial Turf:
  One of the main concerns with artificial turf is that it can get hot, especially during LA’s summer heat. However, there are solutions like Envirofill or Triple Z Zeolite infill, which help reduce heat retention. With these added solutions, you can enjoy a cooler surface without compromising on durability.
• Natural Grass:
  Natural grass stays cool, even during the hottest days. It’s comfortable to walk on barefoot and doesn’t pose any heat retention issues, making it ideal for families with young children or pets.

Winner: Natural Grass (for heat comfort)

Which Is Best for Your LA Home?

Artificial Turf is a great choice if you’re looking for a low-maintenance, durable, and water-efficient option that stays green year-round. The long-term cost savings and environmental benefits (in terms of water use) make it particularly appealing for Los Angeles homeowners who want to avoid the hassle of maintaining natural grass.

Natural Grass, on the other hand, is ideal if you prefer a softer, more natural feel and can dedicate the time and resources to maintaining its appearance. However, keep in mind that it requires more upkeep and water to stay lush in LA’s dry climate.

Ultimately, your choice will depend on your lifestyle, budget, and environmental preferences. At Revive Landscape, we’re happy to guide you through the decision-making process and help create the perfect outdoor space for your home.

Contact Us: Ready to make the switch? Whether you’re leaning toward artificial turf or natural grass, our team at Revive Landscape can help design and install the ideal lawn for your home in Los Angeles. Contact us today at contact@revivelandscape.com or give us a call at 818-257-1540 for a consultation!