Are you wondering about the best way to maintain your artificial lawn?

Perhaps you’re still considering whether an artificial lawn is the right choice for you, and the maintenance required if you do. Because artificial grass is an investment, you’ll want to ensure it’s looking its best for as long as possible.

The good news is that, as an experienced landscaper, I can tell you that compared to other alternatives to a natural lawn, artificial grass is particularly low-maintenance. And when regularly maintained, it can last up to 15 – 20 years!

However, there are steps you can take to ensure your artificial grass will last the distance. I’ve outlined all you need to do to keep your artificial grass looking great, below:

1. Remove any leaves and debris

For best results, you can use a leaf blower or stiff brush to disturb any site debris, which can potentially lead to weeds if left untouched. In addition to this, regularly trim back any hedges or overhanging trees to limit the amount of leaves falling onto your lawn.

2. Brush your grass regularly

If your garden has a lot of heavy footfall, artificial grass will crush and bend just like real grass. By brushing the grass against the pile, this will raise it back up again and keep it looking luscious, thick and upright.

One of our customers was particularly concerned about their grass’s heavy footfall, and worried about having to carry out a lot more maintenance than a normal garden. However, we advised them that good quality artificial grass is designed to withstand heavy footfall and can take quite a bit of beating, so no need to worry!

3. Use a gentle weed killer (only if needed)

Artificial grass is susceptible to airborne seeds. Using a gentle weed killer twice a year, or when needed, will help to prevent weeds from growing. If any weeds do appear, these are usually only surface weeds which will gently pull out.

4. Clear away any pet mess ASAP

Always clear away pet mess, and rinse with water (or soap and water where necessary) to prevent any lingering smells. Rainfall also helps keep your lawn smelling fresh and clean. If the smell of pet urine does linger, you can buy artificial grass deodorisers and cleaners that will help with this issue. However, very rarely have our customers needed to use this.

Typically, a regular hosing down with water, with the addition of our Scottish weather, usually prevents this issue.

5. Clean up spills and stains

Artificial grass is stain resistant, which makes cleaning up spills and accidents much easier. Most spills can be rinsed away, but if stubborn stains remain after hosing, you can use mild soapy water.

6. Protect your grass if you’re having a barbecue nearby

If you’re planning a barbecue, it’s wise to protect the area with wood or canvas to avoid hot embers falling on the grass. Artificial grass will melt, but won’t catch fire. This is because it’s made from high quality synthetic material. The sand infill most installers use also adds an extra extinguishing effect, and is fireproof.

If painting, protect with a normal decorating sheet, plastic or newspaper.

7. Arrange annual maintenance for your lawn

Most good artificial grass installers should offer an annual maintenance programme to ensure your artificial lawn will last its full lifespan. This is something you can choose to do on top of the regular maintenance steps mentioned above, and can involve a more detailed inspection of your grass.

This inspection typically includes looking at:

• Seam joints
• Edge fitting
• Tucked details (if any)
• Sand infill

An installer may also use a heavy duty mechanical brush, and blow equipment, to raise the pile. These are things that you may not necessarily notice, but will ensure you get the longest time out of your artificial grass investment.

TIP: Some homeowners may even choose to ask for this maintenance twice per year – especially if they have big lawns and simply don’t have the time to regularly carry out all of the steps above.

Conclusion

I hope this blog has been of some help when looking for ways to maintain your artificial lawn. Regular maintenance – like the steps above – can help protect your investment and ensure your artificial lawn will truly last the 15 – 20 years of its lifespan.

Along with the steps mentioned above, an annual maintenance programme from your chosen installer can ensure your artificial lawn is looking great all year round.

Do you have any questions about how to maintain your artificial lawn? Just pop me a question in the comments’ section. I’m always happy to help!