Artificial Grass vs Turfing: Which Is Right for Your Croydon Garden?
Elite Landscaping Ltd Turfing & Artificial Grass Installation in Croydon & South London
A green lawn is the heart of a beautiful garden. But when it comes to deciding between artificial grass and real turf, the choice can feel overwhelming. Both offer unique benefits and cater to different needs whether you’re looking for a low maintenance garden in Croydon, or you love the traditional look and feel of real grass.
At Elite Landscaping Ltd, we are specialists in both artificial grass installation and turfing services in Croydon, and we’ve helped hundreds of homeowners across South London and Surrey design the perfect lawn for their lifestyle.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the key differences between artificial grass and turfing, compare their advantages and disadvantages, and help you decide which option suits your garden, your budget, and how you live.
What’s the Difference Between Artificial Grass and Turf?
Let’s start with the basics:
Artificial grass (also known as fake grass or synthetic turf) is made from soft, durable plastic fibres that replicate the appearance of real grass. It’s installed over a compacted sub-base and often comes with drainage layers and weed membranes.
Turfing involves laying fresh rolls of real grass turf onto well-prepared topsoil. It requires regular watering, mowing, feeding, and seasonal care.
Both options can deliver a lush, green lawn but the best choice depends on your personal preferences, garden conditions, and how much time you want to spend on maintenance.
The Benefits of Artificial GrassArtificial grass Croydon, artificial turf installation Croydon, fake grass Croydon, low maintenance garden Croydon
Artificial grass is an increasingly popular choice among Croydon homeowners, particularly in smaller urban gardens, rental properties, family homes, and modern garden designs.
Here are some of the biggest benefits of artificial turf:
1. Minimal Maintenance
One of the top reasons people choose artificial grass in Croydon is the hassle-free upkeep. No mowing, no watering, no feeding and absolutely no mud. It’s perfect for those who want a beautiful lawn without the weekend chore list.
2. Green All Year Round
Artificial turf stays vibrant and lush in every season. Whether it’s the heat of summer or the frost of winter, your lawn will always look its best. It’s ideal for shaded gardens where natural turf struggles to grow.
3. Perfect for Pets and Kids
Artificial grass is soft, safe, and non-toxic making it an excellent choice for families with children or pets. No more muddy paw prints or grass stains in the house. Plus, it’s easy to clean!
4. Long-Lasting Durability
With proper artificial turf installation in Croydon, synthetic lawns can last between 10–15 years or more. They withstand heavy foot traffic, sports, outdoor play, and even garden furniture.
5. Eco-Friendly in the Long Term
While artificial turf is made from plastic, it eliminates the need for petrol lawnmowers, chemical fertilisers, pesticides, and excessive water use. That means fewer emissions, less water waste, and a smaller carbon footprint overall.
6. A Clean & Tidy Garden
Artificial grass means no weeds, no dead patches, and no muddy puddles. You can use your lawn all year round even after rain which is especially helpful in family homes or busy outdoor spaces.
The Benefits of Real Turf (Natural Grass)
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Nothing quite beats the smell of freshly cut grass or the feel of soft turf under your feet. For many, real grass brings a sense of life and authenticity to the garden.
Here’s why real turf might be the better option for your garden:
1. Natural Beauty
Real turf has a natural variation in colour and texture that’s hard to replicate. It grows and changes with the seasons, bringing a truly organic, living element to your garden.
2. Eco-Friendly and Biodiverse
Turf supports biodiversity. It absorbs carbon dioxide, releases oxygen, helps regulate temperatures, and provides a natural habitat for insects, birds, and pollinators unlike synthetic grass.
3. Lower Initial Cost
Turfing is often more affordable upfront than installing artificial grass, especially for larger garden areas. If you’re on a budget but want an instant transformation, turfing may be the right fit.
4. Cooling Effect in Summer
Natural grass helps cool your garden and surrounding environment, whereas artificial turf can absorb and retain heat. This can make a big difference in hot weather.
5. Personal Satisfaction
For those who love gardening, real grass offers a rewarding sense of achievement. Mowing, feeding, and caring for your turf can become a relaxing and enjoyable routine.
Which Lawn Is Right for Your Garden?
Still deciding between real turf vs artificial grass? Here’s our expert advice based on your needs:
Still deciding between real turf vs artificial grass? Here’s our expert advice based on your needs:
Choose Artificial Grass if:
You want a low maintenance garden in Croydon
Your lawn gets heavy use from children or pets
You struggle to grow grass due to shade or soil quality
You want a modern garden with clean lines
You have allergies (no pollen!)
Choose Turfing if:
You love gardening and lawn care
You want a traditional, organic feel
You’re working with a smaller budget
You value biodiversity and wildlife
You want a cooling, natural surface
Not sure? We also offer hybrid landscaping solutions combining artificial grass, real turf, paving, and decking to create multi-functional gardens with the best of both worlds.
Our Turfing & Artificial Grass Services in Croydon Include:
At Elite Landscaping Ltd, we provide full-service solutions for both types of lawn installation, including:
At Elite Landscaping Ltd, we provide full-service solutions for both types of lawn installation, including:
For Turfing:
Site clearance and rotavating
Fresh topsoil preparation
Turf supply and laying
Lawn rolling and watering
Lawn care advice
For Artificial Grass:
Full ground excavation and waste removal
MOT Type 1 or sharp sand sub-base
Weed-proof membrane installation
Artificial turf supply and fitting
Brushing and finishing for a flawless look
All our work is carried out by trained, experienced landscapers fully insured, punctual, and polite.
Book Your Free Quote Today!
Whether you’re ready to go green with real turf or want the hassle-free luxury of artificial grass, we’re here to help.
Call: 0771392650
Website: www.elitegardenlandscape.co.uk
Email: elitegardenlandscape@gmail.com
Serving Croydon, South London & Surrey