If you’re just starting to play golf or playing at the professional level, you’re likely aware of the significance of your short game. Installing a backyard putting green can be the perfect answer to enhancing your handicap without the distractions you might discover at your golf club. Practicing in the quiet of your home can support you to improve your game and your overall health. Continue reading to discover more.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND
Before committing to a backyard putting green installation, there are a few factors you should consider before installing.
WHY ARTIFICIAL INSTEAD OF NATURAL TURF?
Natural green vs synthetic green—this is one of the most common queries we get. Here’s our take on the topic.
At first glance, regular green putting greens might seem like the best choice. It might seem good and cheaper to install, right? Well, not so fast…
Initial installation of regular turf is cheaper up front, but the up-keep of natural turf will becoming time consuming and costlier in the long run. Putting green surfaces have to be kept short for proper ball rolling, so it would need to be mowed three or four times a week for regular play in the growing season. Not to mention fertilization, pest removal—and on the opposite side of the scale—if it’s a specifically dry season, you’ll have to water frequently to keep it healthy.
All of these small costs over time will add up. Synthetic greens will be more expensive for initial installation, but you’ll quickly recoup that investment.
IS YOUR SURFACE LEVEL OR SLOPED?
While it is a possibility to have your putting turf on a slight slope, it’s generally suggested that you try to level the area as best as possible. If you have a large amount of space and are going to install more golf greens in than just a single putting area, you could leave it naturally sloped.
Golf grass that have too much severity of slopes, bumps, swales, twists, or any of these features can become complex at a fast green speed. For example, a putt that misses the hole placed on a steep slope with a fast stimp putting turf will not come to a stop near the hole. You can learn more regarding the relationship between green characteristics here and how it affects gameplay.
ARE YOU INSTALLING ON SOIL, COMPACT STONE, OR CONCRETE?
Regardless of what kind of synthetic turf you’re choice, you’ll want a solid base for the ground. Removing regular grass and compacting the soil as much as possible is crucial for a successful installation.
If you want to install your synthetic golf turf over concrete, you might want to consider adding a cushioning layer under the turf for more ease. No matter the base, you will require a good filling to keep your green looking good and functioning the way it should.
TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THE HEALTH BENEFITS
INCREASE COGNITIVE ABILITIES
Playing golf increases your heart rate, which will help to enhance your blood flow to the brain and body. Research indicates that increased heart rate from exercise can help nerve cell connections, which can defer mental limitations like dementia or Alzheimer’s.
DECREASE STRESS
Golf is a fine method of destress after a long day. It’s a great way to destress for the day go and let go of mental or physical tension. Consistent exercise might help you sleep better, too, so you feel waken up each day.
ENHANCE FOCUS
Are you getting the most out of your putting practice at your club, or do you discover yourself getting distracted by the crowd? When you practice at home, you can give your full focus to your practice.
REALISTIC ADVANTAGES
EFFORTLESS MAINTENANCE
With a synthetic putting green, you won’t have to spend a ton of time or money on keeping your turf nice and short for appropriate play. Maintenance will mostly involve removing leaves or debris from time to time as required. We also recommend you get the turf professionally cleaned every 12 months for the best performance.
MORE FAMILY TIME
Having a putting green on your property is an entertainment center in itself— and it’s not just for golfers anymore. You can get the whole family in on the fun that golf has to offer. Getting your kids started in sports while young can help foster a life-long love they might grow with golf. And in the least, you will create some wonderful memories with your family and friends.
SAFER SURFACE
Quality synthetic greens will help you cut back on the number of chemicals required for your backyard. You can say "see-ya" to harmful fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides with artificial turf. You can send your kids and pets out onto the grass without any worry about them stepping in hazardous chemicals.
WHY SOUTHWEST GREENS?
If you are curious about what makes us better from the rest of the turf installers out there, search no further. Our artificial turf is:
- Chemical-free
- Made in the USA
- 100% recyclable
- Designed for durability
- Professionally designed and installed
- True playability
Our collaboration with Nicklaus Design lets provide the most accurate playing surface for sale available today, too.