If you are a golf lover, then at some point in your life you have had the dream of building your own backyard putting green. The opportunity that it provides to work on your short game whenever you’d like is incredible, plus the added benefits of daily exercise and stress relief. However, installing a custom putting green comes with some very important decisions to make.
The biggest choice you will have is to find the right person to create it. Although you may be tempted to build the golf green yourself, it is much more beneficial in the long-run to have an experienced sports landscaper do the task. Beware of local landscapers that will have you believe that simply because they know about grass, they are able to advise you on a golf green. You are best suited to find experts in the field, as a properly made golf green in your backyard will not only provide you with hours of enjoyment, but look great and increase your property value!
The Big Question: Natural Grass or Synthetic Surface?
Once you have found the right company to build your golf green, you will have to decide what type of green you are going to build. There are a variety of factors that will play a part in this decision, which is why discussing the idea with an expert is essential. Depending on the space, region, climate, costs and your willingness to perform maintenance, there will be a better option for you.
Natural Grass Home Putting Greens
Many golf enthusiasts believe that using natural grass is the only way to go, as it offers a “true” golf experience that is similar to the ones found on professional courses. The look, smell and feel of the grass can offer an authentic touch to your backyard golf course, making you feel like you are putting the winning birdie at Augusta National.
There are two main types of natural grass that can be used to build a home putting green: Creeping Bentgrass and Bermuda. Both types of grass have their benefits and setbacks, and are used on professional golf courses all around the world.
Creeping Bentgrass is the most utilized grass by commercial golf courses and home putters because it is often considered the “most beautiful” grass for it’s sculpted look, smooth texture and deep-green color. The thickness of the grass and its low-growing tendencies means that it requires as minimal upkeep as a natural putting green can offer.
Bermuda Grass is the second most utilized grass for golf courses, however it is more prevalent on fairways than the aforementioned Creeping Bentgrass. Its versatility offers more options to players that may have more space and are looking to have an extended area, complete with chipping possibilities.
The Positives of Grass and Synthetic Greens
Building your home golf green with either material has its benefits, depending on your exact needs for playing style, costs and maintenance.
First off, the initial costs of a grass green are low, as you only need the area and the seeds/grass to lay down. As mentioned earlier, a true grass putting green offers you everything that a commercial course does: the natural beauty, the feel of the roll and simply the feeling of legitimacy for your backyard. However, another benefit that some may overlook is the pride that you feel when taking care of your own green. Though some may believe it to be a negative, if you have the luxury of time and a passion for greenery, you are able to get the satisfaction of mowing, grooming, shaping and caring for your own personal green. A definitely plus for anybody that is a fan of gardening, you will be able to show off your lush green putting area to your friends and family. Plus, the natural look is a great addition to any backyard!
Conversely, for those that are solely focused on practicing their short game and don’t care for the aesthetics of natural grass, a synthetic offers many positives. Primarily, the ease of maintenance and no following costs mean that you don’t have to do anything other than occasionally sweep the green. This allows you to put as you please, without ever having to worry about working on the area. Secondly, the synthetic design offers the perfect roll every time, without any annoying bumps or damaged spots interrupting your put. Finally, the durability of a home synthetic putting green cannot be questioned. Built from long-lasting material specifically made to withstand the elements, you won’t have to worry about any issues arising from unfavorable weather.
The Negatives of Grass and Synthetic Home Golf Greens
What the natural grass provides in majesty, it lacks in ease-of-care. For those who are not fans of gardening, the constant cutting, rolling, aerating and auxiliary maintenance that is required every week may quickly become irritating. In order to keep a short, puttable green, it can take up to 3 mowings a week, which some people just don’t have time or effort for. Also, the necessary tools and chemicals required can be a hassle to find and the costs quickly add up. Although the initial investment is smaller, it can cost more in the long-run depending on the climate and upkeep.
The synthetic option really only has two drawbacks, however they may be deal breakers for some. The first is the fact that it is not true grass, so the golf experience may be lost on some of the more traditional players. Next, the initial investment of a synthetic green is quite larger than natural grass. Due to the purchase of the material and installation, it can be a turn-off to golfers that may not be committed to making such an investment for a luxury item.
Make the Right Decision for Your Home Golf Green
While this guide may provide you with in-depth information about building a home golf green, there is no substitute to speaking with a certified sports landscape engineer.
Contact Us today to speak with our trusted team of golf course builders and let us help you decide on the best putting green for your backyard!
