3 tips for choosing the right lawn for your project

1. Environment matters

Roger advises when selecting the right lawn for a project in New Zealand, it’s important to note the various environmental factors that can impact the health and longevity of the grass or artificial turf.

"Natural turf has higher maintenance requirements with regular watering, mowing and nutrients,” says Roger Morgan, Managing Director of Readylawn. “Natural turf also needs plenty of fresh air and sunshine. There’s no point laying it in shady areas, like under trees or on the south side of a building.”

Accordingly, artificial turf may be the best in these instances, but it does have its own environmental considerations. “Artificial turf has benefits in water conservation and reduced maintenance,” says Roger. “But I would avoid laying it in full sun areas, as it can get to scorching temperatures.”

Roger remarks that selecting artificial turf made from high-quality materials is essential to its durability and longevity, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

2. Consider usage

How the client plans to use the lawn should directly impact the choice of turf, for example, Artificial turf is ideal for specific projects. "It makes perfect sense for small areas, like townhouses with 10 to 15 square metres of lawn. It’s also ideal for high-traffic places like preschools, childcare centres, and pet areas where maintaining natural grass can be difficult," Roger notes.  

However, there are drawbacks. "Artificial turf can get dangerously hot—up to 70 degrees on a hot day—and if pets use it, ammonia can build up and cause odours, creating challenges for pet owners trying to maintain a pleasant environment."

“If using artificial turf for childcare centre projects, there would need to be a shade sail over the turf,” Roger adds. 

For natural turf, usage determines the type of grass blend. "Traffic, pets, and activities will dictate the best blend,” notes Roger. “For example, ryegrass works well for busy backyards with kids and dogs, while finer grasses suit people who want a pristine, aesthetic lawn.”

3. Location

According to Roger, the location of the property and the area where the lawn will be installed are key considerations when selecting a lawn. Climate and sunlight exposure are critical for natural grass to thrive. 

"The grass preferences vary across New Zealand. We use warm-season grasses like Bermuda and Kikuyu in Auckland and northern areas. In cooler southern climates, ryegrass, fescues, and browntops perform better," says Roger. 

The specific area of the property also matters. "All grass needs air and sunshine, so areas on the south side of a house, under a tree, or shaded by a trampoline will struggle compared to sunny spots," he adds

Artificial turf, while more versatile, still requires attention to details like drainage and heat exposure. "We’ve even seen cases where reflective windows melted artificial lawns. Drainage is another key factor to consider—your base material needs to be well-prepared to prevent water pooling," says Roger.

Understanding the long-term impact of your choices is crucial for a successful landscape design. Choosing the right lawn requires balancing practical considerations with the client’s personal preferences. As Roger remarks, "Whether it’s natural grass or artificial turf, think about how it will be used, the environmental factors, and the location. Those three considerations will help you make the best decision for your project." 

Learn more about Readylawn and its products, or contact them on ArchiPro today for a quote for your next project.