There’s nothing better than a beautiful lush green lawn. If you’re like many people, you want to have a green carpet of grass that will be the envy of the neighborhood. But should you go with grass seed or turf? This is a question many homeowners are faced with when creating a new lawn. At GMC Landscapes, we’ve helped many homeowners turn their outdoor spaces into private oases. If a lush lawn of grass is part of your vision for your property, read on to find out whether you should go with seed or turf for your property.
The Pros and Cons of Using Turf
What is turfing? Turf is grass that is cultivated off-site. When the grass has established itself, the grass and a layer of the top soil are carefully removed from the ground and rolled up. This carpet of grass is known as turf.
The Advantages of Laying Turf
You’re assured of quality when you go with turf. You don’t have to worry about seed varieties and whether they will germinate and establish themselves. All this has already been done for you. You simply choose the type of turf you want and have it installed.
Turf offers a quick and easy solution if you’re looking for immediate results with landscaping. You can completely transform the appearance of your property in a matter of hours. You can achieve a green lawn without having to wait for months.
Because turf consists of grass that is already established, you don’t have to worry about the dog ruining your seedlings or birds pinching them. Cats and other animals will find it difficult to dig up the turf.
With turf, you can begin using your lawn sooner. With proper care, your turf can be walked on in as little as 3 weeks.
The Disadvantages of Turf
If you’re working with a tight budget, turf may not be the solution for you. One of the biggest disadvantages of turf is that it can be quite costly. In fact, it can be seven times as expensive as using grass seed.
Turf is perishable. So you should only have it delivered when you’re ready to lay it. If it is not laid as soon as it arrives, it will begin to degrade and die. You will therefore lose your investment.
Turf requires quite a bit of manpower when laying it. It also requires quite a bit of time to lay it out.
The Pros and Cons of Using Grass Seed
What is grass seed? This is simply seeds that are sown to get grass.
The Advantages of Sowing Grass Seed
If you’re on a tight budget and would like to start a lawn, grass seed would be a good option for you. Seeds cost much less than turf. They are perfect for achieving a lush green lawn on a budget.
Grass seeds come in a wide variety. With a bit of research you can determine the exact seed mix that will do well in your climate and with your soil. You can get the type of lawn that you have always wanted.
Sowing lawn seeds is a lot easier than laying turf. Seeds are light and require little energy to sow. You can sow seeds on your entire lawn in a matter of minutes.
If you have excess seed or aren’t ready to sow the seeds just yet, you can store them. Grass seeds can last years when stored properly. Excess seed will come in handy for maintenance and repair.
The Advantages of Sowing Grass Seed
If you need results as soon as possible, lawn seeds may not be the best option for you. While it takes only 12 weeks for turf to take root, it will take 12 months for a lawn from seed to be fully established.
In addition, you are not guaranteed of the seed germinating. Germination of the seeds may be slow and patchy, resulting in bare patches of land that will require repair.
Animals and birds can destroy your law. Your cat or dog may dig up seedlings and birds will be all but happy to feed on your newly germinated seedlings.
So which is Best, Grass Seed or Turf?
So should you go for grass seed or turf when creating a new lawn? This really depends on your needs and your goals for your lawn. Our team can help you weigh the pros and cons of each and decide which would be the best solution for you, taking into account the unique attributes of your space. Contact GMC Landscapes and discuss your needs with our team. We’d be happy to help you achieve your goals for your outdoor space.