Do you have one or more unsightly bald spots on your lawn? Have you tried every single thing you can think of to cover it up or make grass grow? Maybe you have finally decided that you need an alternative. Maybe that alternative is artificial grass. Learning how to grow artificial grass on dirt can save you a lot of time in maintenance and care. Find out how below!
What is Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass, otherwise known as ‘artificial turf,’ is “grass” made of plastic and recycled rubber. Effectively an outdoor carpet, artificial grass is designed to look like natural plant material, however, is typically made of combination of polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene and nylon to create “blades” of grass. The blades sit on layers developed through primary and secondary padding material, perfectly firm for walking and running. The best part? Artificial grass perfectly ‘not-living’ in that it requires no water, not cutting and generally, no maintenance.
Benefits of Artificial Grass
Artificial grass can be a popular option for homeowners for a couple of different reasons. If you do not have a ton of time available to spend on your lawn, artificial grass might be a great option for you. Artificial grass is also a practical choice. It can cover up the bald spot in your lawn very quickly and easily, helping to beautify a space in virtually no time at all.
Artificial grass also requires far less maintenance than real grass. There is no mowing involved and you do not have to worry about watering or fertilizing it. It does cost a little more than your traditional sod, so that is something to keep in mind.
How to Lay Artificial Grass on Dirt: A step-by-step guide
Wondering how to lay artificial grass next to real grass? Want to completely cover your yard? Follow the steps below to lay artificial grass in your yard:
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Clear the area. This is by far the part of the process that will take you the longest when learning how to grow artificial grass on dirt. You want to dig out and clear the turf that is currently in the area you have selected to lay your artificial grass. We suggest using a turf cutter or space to do so. Next, dig through the existing soil up to about 2 to 2.5 inches deep. Your new artificial grass will sit at a depth of approximately half an inch above the edging you have in place.
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Level the land. You want the ground to be as level as possible before laying any artificial grass. Do not go just by taking a quick glance, either. Be sure the land is level before moving on to the next step. You can do this by laying a layer of sand on top of the materials you already have there. You do not need a lot of sand. A centimeter or two will do the trick and will make it much easier for you to get a level and smooth surface. To smooth out the land, simply use a piece of wood.
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Cut your grass. You want to make sure the grass you have selected is going to fit perfectly. That means cutting it to size. This sounds a bit more complicated than it actually is and you should not have much trouble on this step. You do want to take your time, however, to ensure you get it right. If you want to add a shock absorbing layer to your lawn, this would be the time to do it before you cut your grass. If you have purchased a higher quality artificial grass, you likely will not need the extra cushion a shock absorbing layer provides. Look at the area you are working with and figure out the best way to lay the grass down for cutting. Then simply us a utility knife and level to cut the grass. You should lay it down and ensure it fits perfectly while you are cutting it. This ensures you do not cut too much.
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Lay down the artificial grass. You want to void any gaps when you lay down your grass. Make sure it fits in snugly with any corners you have and then nail it into place. You can do this by placing nails about every foot as you go down the lawn’s perimeter. You can also use adhesive during this step. It can help to secure your lawn down where you want it. You do not need a lot of adhesive. A thin layer will do the trick. The adhesive is most important in places where you will be joining two different pieces of the turf together.
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Add silica sand. The final step is to sprinkle some silica sand on top of your new artificial lawn. You want it to be spread out evenly. You can then brush it into the grass. This step also helps keep the grass in place. It is not a necessary step but can certainly help with added stability. If you have dogs or children running around on the lawn, this step is a good one to include in your process.
If you would like more information on how to grow artificial grass on dirt, reach out to Dirt Connections, today. They have the experience and resources you need to get started on your artificial grass protect, and to beautify your yard in no time! While you’re at it, schedule a Virginia fill dirt delivery to help you get started!
