Navigating through the option between synthetic and live turf for your home or business can feel overwhelming. In this post, we hope to help you make an informed choice as each option brings its unique charm and functional benefits. At tuf-turf, we offer both high-quality live sod and eco-friendly synthetic turf, and we hope to guide you to the best options for your yard and landscape.

Points to think about
  • Do you own pets?
  • Do you have a high-traffic area?
  • Will potential damage occur to live turf over time?
  • What will be the use for the turf surface?
  • Do you have time for regular maintenance and upkeep?
  • Do you want the cooling effect of a live lawn?
  • Are you interested in seeing more interaction with animals and insects?
  • Would you find the aspect of maintaining your lawn cathartic and grounding?

When deciding between the two, consider your lifestyle and commitment to maintenance and if you would enjoy the environmental benefits of having a living and growing surface. If so live turf may be your best option. If you are seeking low maintenance, have a hi-traffic requirement, want to have a personal golf surface such as a putting green, and would prefer consistent greenery, synthetic turf is a reliable alternative.

Live Turf / Sod

Let’s face it, there’s nothing like the cool feel and pleasant smell that fresh-cut grass offers. Live turf, with its natural allure and contribution to a natural environment, is an excellent choice for homeowners who enjoy a traditional lawn. The sight and smell of real grass contribute to a serene outdoor ambiance. Live turf also promotes a healthy environment by purifying the air and reducing heat. However, it does come with the need for regular watering, mowing, fertilizing, and pest control. Although you can look at the maintenance aspect as both great for your mental and physical well-being…without the need for a gym membership.

Synthetic Turf

Synthetic turf is great for pets, especially dogs

Synthetic turf, on the other hand, brings a unique blend of aesthetics, convenience, and sustainability. It offers a beautiful and consistent green appearance year-round, regardless of weather conditions. At tuf-turf, we provide Rymar synthetic turf, manufactured from non-toxic and long-lasting materials. It provides a green and neat appearance throughout the year, (even in winter) without the need for constant maintenance or water. It’s highly durable, and able to withstand heavy use in high-traffic areas, making it perfect for outdoor family activities, pet runs, or commercial applications. However, it lacks the natural feel and the same environmental benefits that live turf offers. Synthetic turf’s low upkeep, and lack of the need for fertilizers and watering, especially during these water conservation times, make it an increasingly popular choice. Many local municipalities, here in Greater Victoria B.C., are reducing or banning the use of gas-powered mowers and equipment. A synthetic turf lawn eliminates the negative impact of such equipment.

In a sporting mood?

Synthetic turf from tuf-turf is great for sports

Let’s talk about sports. Some traditionalists love to play sports such as soccer or golf on live turf surfaces. When we look at the cost of maintenance and in some cases practicality, synthetic turf is becoming a standout option for sports-related activities. Certainly, if you want to install a putting green at home, synthetic turf will give you both instant satisfaction and year-round availability of the surface but also eliminates the need for professional-level maintenance. For larger sports surfaces, the long-term durability aspect of synthetic turf is becoming a key benefit.

So, how to choose between synthetic turf and live turf?

Reflect on your lifestyle, priorities, what the surface will be used for, and commitment to lawn maintenance. If you’re a traditionalist who enjoys the process of lawn care and the sensory benefits a living lawn provides, live turf might be the right choice. For those seeking low maintenance, high durability, pet friendly, and sustainability, synthetic turf from tuf-turf is an excellent choice.

Whichever direction you lean toward, tuf-turf is here to provide quality options tailored to your needs. Whether it’s the lush charm of live sod or the sustainable convenience of synthetic turf. We are here to assist you in creating a landscape solution that enhances your home or business aesthetics while aligning with your lifestyle and values.