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Ever wondered whether that patchy lawn needs another costly treatment while your neighbour’s fake grass stays green all year? You’re not alone. Choosing between natural and synthetic grass has become one of the biggest debates for Melbourne homeowners.

This guide compares real grass and fake grass—covering costs, maintenance, environmental impact, and which works best for Melbourne’s unique climate.

Understanding the Options

What Is Fake Grass?

Fake grass, also known as artificial or synthetic turf, is made from durable synthetic fibres designed to replicate natural lawns. Modern products feature soft textures, realistic colours, UV protection, and efficient drainage systems, making them look and feel surprisingly natural.

Natural grass, on the other hand, is a living plant that needs sunlight, water, and regular care. It provides a natural cooling effect, supports biodiversity, and gives that classic “freshly cut grass” experience.

Types of Fake Grass in Australia

Australia offers several fake grass types suited to different needs:

• Nylon turf: Extremely durable and ideal for high-traffic areas.
• Polyethylene turf: Soft, realistic, and popular for residential use.
• Polypropylene turf: Affordable but less long-lasting.

Pile height typically ranges from 20mm (short, neat look) to 40mm (lush and natural). For most homes, 30–35mm offers the perfect balance between appearance and practicality.

Popular Natural Grass Types in Melbourne

Melbourne’s climate supports several lawn varieties, including:

• Buffalo grass (Sir Walter): Soft, shade-tolerant, and easy to maintain.
• Kikuyu: Fast-growing and durable, but can be invasive.
• Couch grass: Great drought tolerance and quick recovery.
• Zoysia: Premium, dense appearance but slower to establish.

Each has pros and cons depending on sunlight, foot traffic, and water availability.

Cost Comparison: Real vs Fake Grass

Natural Grass Costs

Installing natural grass in Melbourne costs around $15–$30 per m², plus soil preparation and irrigation. A 100m² lawn typically costs $1,500–$3,000 upfront.

However, ongoing expenses—fertilising, mowing, watering, pest control—can easily exceed $1,000–$2,000 annually. Add in equipment and your time, and natural lawns become a continual investment.

Fake Grass Costs

Installing fake grass costs $50–$120 per m², with higher-quality products at the top end. A 100m² lawn costs roughly $5,000–$12,000.

While upfront costs are higher, maintenance is minimal. Expect to spend just $100–$200 per year for cleaning and occasional infill. Most homeowners break even after 5–7 years, saving water and time in the long run.

Climate Performance in Melbourne

Natural Grass Challenges

Melbourne’s unpredictable weather—heatwaves, cold winters, and limited rainfall—makes maintaining real lawns tough. Water restrictions often cause lawns to dry out or die, requiring costly replanting or repair.

Humidity and winter moisture can also cause fungal issues, while heavy rain leads to waterlogging.

How Fake Grass Handles the Heat?

Fake grass stays green year-round, but it can heat up in full sun—sometimes over 60°C on hot summer days. To combat this, modern products feature heat-reflective technology and lighter colours that reduce surface temperature.

Adding shade sails, trees, or misting systems further improves comfort during extreme heat.

Maintenance: Time, Effort, and Upkeep

Caring for Real Grass

A beautiful natural lawn demands:

• Weekly mowing and edging
• Regular watering and fertilising
• Annual aerating and dethatching
• Weed and pest control

This can easily take 1–2 hours a week, plus seasonal care. Many Melbourne homeowners find the upkeep exhausting, especially during hot months.

Caring for Fake Grass

Fake grass is low-maintenance but not maintenance-free. To keep it looking fresh:

• Brush fibres weekly to prevent matting
• Rinse monthly to remove dust or pollen
• Remove debris and leaves regularly
• Use enzyme cleaners for pet areas

A yearly professional clean helps extend its lifespan and maintain hygiene, especially in high-use spaces.

Environmental Impact

Water Conservation

One of the biggest advantages of fake grass is water savings. Real lawns can consume 20,000–30,000 litres of water annually, while synthetic turf needs only an occasional rinse.

However, fake grass is petroleum-based and energy-intensive to produce. Its environmental impact depends on lifespan, recycling options, and overall sustainability practices.

Wildlife and Ecosystem Effects

Natural grass supports worms, insects, and soil microbes that contribute to local biodiversity. In contrast, fake grass offers no habitat or food source for wildlife, effectively creating a sterile zone.

Some Melbourne homeowners balance this by combining fake grass with native plant beds, which maintain biodiversity while reducing maintenance.

Lifestyle and Family Factors

For Kids and Pets

Families love fake grass because it:

• Stays mud-free and green all year
• Requires no chemicals or pesticides
• Withstands heavy play and pet traffic

However, natural grass provides sensory and educational experiences that artificial surfaces can’t replicate. It also stays cooler during summer playtime.

Safety and Allergies

Fake grass eliminates exposure to lawn pesticides and reduces pollen allergies. Just ensure your chosen turf meets Australian safety standards for non-toxic materials.

Real grass, while natural, can trigger hay fever and requires caution when using fertilisers or herbicides around children and pets.

Making the Right Choice

When to Choose Natural Grass

Go with natural grass if:

• You enjoy gardening and lawn care.
• Your soil and water access are good.
• You value biodiversity and natural cooling.
• You’re selling your home soon and want lower upfront costs.

When to Choose Fake Grass

Fake grass is ideal if you:

• Want a low-maintenance lawn.
• Live in areas with water restrictions.
• Have shaded, sloped, or high-traffic areas.
• Manage rental or holiday properties.
• Have allergy-prone family members.

It’s particularly useful around pools, courtyards, and rooftops—places where natural grass struggles to survive.

Conclusion: Your Ideal Melbourne Lawn

Both real and fake grass have their strengths and trade-offs. Natural grass offers authenticity, cooling, and biodiversity, while fake grass delivers unbeatable convenience, water savings, and all-weather appeal.

Your decision should reflect your lifestyle, budget, and environmental values. Visit local suppliers, compare samples, and consider your home’s specific conditions.

Whether you prefer the living beauty of natural grass or the effortless look of fake grass, Melbourne offers plenty of great options. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy a lush, functional, and sustainable lawn all year round.