Reasons to Choose Sod Over Artificial Turf

Lush, green lawns are a luxurious addition to any property. They are pleasant to the eyes, fun to play on, and provide a cooling effect to the surroundings. However, not all lawns are created equal. While natural grass requires maintenance, it provides an authentic look and feel to the property. On the other hand, artificial turf is a low-maintenance alternative, but it lacks the environmental benefits of natural grass. In this blog, we'll discuss the reasons why you should choose sod over artificial turf for your lawn.

1. Environmental Benefits

Sod provides numerous environmental benefits that artificial turf cannot match. Sod is effective in reducing air pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and other pollutants while releasing oxygen. It also helps regulate temperature by reducing the heat island effect. Unlike artificial turf, sod is a living thing that hosts various insects, birds, and other wildlife that thrive in natural environments. Plus, sod requires less water compared to artificial turf, which is a big plus in areas with water restrictions.

2. Cost-Effective

Artificial turf installation can be costlier than sod installation, especially if you have a large lawn. The upfront cost of installing artificial turf may be higher than natural grass, and the maintenance costs of natural grass are lower as long as you choose the right species. Sod can be installed quickly, which reduces labor costs compared to artificial turf. It also reaches a mature stage in three to four weeks, which means you can enjoy your lawn soon after installation without having to wait for it to settle in like you would with artificial turf.

3. Higher Quality

Natural grass has a higher quality and durability compared to artificial turf. Sod is less likely to be damaged by pets, children, and sports activities compared to artificial turf. Natural grass is also more resistant to high foot-traffic areas, unlike synthetic turf which can become damaged and require repair or replacement. Furthermore, natural grass provides a more natural look and feel to the landscape, which can add value to your property.

4. Low Maintenance

Natural sod requires minimal maintenance after installation compared to artificial turf. While natural grass requires watering, mowing, and fertilizing, the maintenance is minimal when done correctly and can be reduced by choosing the right type of grass for your lawn. Artificial turf requires certain maintenance measures to keep it looking pristine and avoid issues such as melting and discoloration. It also requires regular cleaning to remove debris, pet waste, and other materials that can damage the material.

5. Aesthetic Appeal

Natural sod provides a more beautiful and natural look to the surrounding landscape compared to artificial turf. Once installed, natural sod forms a cohesive, healthy and beautiful lawn. It also has the advantage of naturally matching to the surrounding environment, something synthetic turf has difficulty doing. Sod also changes color depending on the season and provides a significant increase in curb appeal to your property.

 

Conclusion

Choosing between sod and artificial turf is not an easy decision. But, when you analyze the benefits that the two provide, it's abundantly clear that sod comes out ahead in numerous ways. Sod is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, of higher quality, low maintenance, and has a beautiful aesthetic appeal compared to artificial turf. As an additional benefit, sod can be installed quickly and within a few weeks, you will have a beautiful, lush lawn to call your own. If you are considering on a sod installation in Orlando, FL, contact From The Ground Up Landscaping today for free estimates.