If you have been researching alternatives to natural grass, you may have come across terms such as artificial grass, synthetic turf and Astroturf.
At first glance, these terms may appear to mean exactly the same thing. While they are often used interchangeably, there are some important differences in their meaning, history and common usage.
So, what is the difference between artificial grass, synthetic turf and Astroturf? And which term should you use when looking for the right product for your home, garden or landscaping project?
Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Artificial Grass?
Artificial grass is a general term used to describe manufactured grass designed to look and perform similarly to natural grass.
It is typically made from synthetic fibres such as polyethylene or polypropylene, which are attached to a backing material. Modern artificial grass is available in a wide range of pile heights, colours, fibre shapes and densities.
Artificial grass can be used for many different applications, including:
Residential backyards
Front gardens
Balconies and courtyards
Pet areas
Childcare centres
Commercial landscaping
Rooftops and entertainment areas
Sports and recreational areas
Modern artificial grass can be designed to provide a natural appearance while requiring significantly less regular maintenance than natural lawn.
For homeowners and landscapers, the term artificial grass is commonly used when referring to decorative and landscaping products.
What Is Synthetic Turf?
Synthetic turf is another broad term for grass-like surfaces made from synthetic materials rather than living plants.
The term is particularly common in commercial, sports and landscaping industries.
Synthetic turf can include products designed for:
Sports fields
Golf areas
Commercial landscaping
Schools and childcare centres
Residential gardens
High-traffic areas
The main difference between the terms “artificial grass” and “synthetic turf” is usually not the basic material, but rather the context in which the product is being discussed.
In Australia, both terms can refer to modern synthetic grass products used for residential and commercial applications.
What Is Astroturf?
AstroTurf originally referred to a specific brand of synthetic sports surface.
The name became widely recognised after synthetic turf was installed at the Houston Astrodome in the 1960s. Over time, “Astroturf” became a commonly used generic term for synthetic grass, particularly in everyday conversation.
However, technically speaking, AstroTurf is a brand name, while artificial grass and synthetic turf are general product categories.
This is similar to how people sometimes use a particular brand name when referring to an entire type of product.
Artificial Grass vs Synthetic Turf vs Astroturf
So, are they actually different products?
Not necessarily.
In many situations, people may use all three terms to describe a synthetic grass surface. The main distinction is the terminology and context.
Term What it generally means Common applications
Artificial Grass General term for manufactured grass Gardens, homes, landscaping
Synthetic Turf Broad term for synthetic grass surfaces Sports, commercial and landscaping
AstroTurf Originally a specific brand Historically sports surfaces; often used informally
The actual product specifications are much more important than the name used to describe it.
When choosing artificial grass, you should look at factors such as pile height, fibre type, density, backing, durability, drainage and intended use.
What Should You Look for When Buying Artificial Grass?
Rather than focusing only on whether a product is called artificial grass or synthetic turf, consider how you intend to use it.
1. Pile Height
Pile height refers to the length of the grass fibres.
Shorter products can be suitable for areas where easy maintenance and durability are important, while longer fibres can provide a fuller and more natural-looking appearance.
Common residential products may range from approximately 15mm to 50mm or more.
2. Fibre Shape and Quality
The shape and construction of the synthetic fibres can affect the appearance, resilience and feel of the grass.
Different products may use different fibre profiles and materials depending on their intended application.
3. Density
Higher-density artificial grass generally contains more fibres per square metre.
Density can influence the appearance, feel and ability of the grass to recover after being walked on.
4. Drainage
Good drainage is particularly important in Melbourne’s variable weather conditions.
A suitable backing system can allow water to drain through the grass and into the prepared base underneath.
For areas exposed to regular rainfall, pets or heavy use, drainage should be considered carefully before installation.
5. Intended Use
Not every artificial grass product is designed for the same application.
For example, a product selected for a residential backyard may have different characteristics from one intended for a sports area or high-traffic commercial project.
Think about how the area will be used before choosing the product.
Is Artificial Grass Better Than Natural Grass?
Artificial grass and natural grass have different advantages, so the right option depends on the property and how the area will be used.
Natural grass provides a living landscape and can be preferred by people who enjoy gardening and regular lawn maintenance.
Artificial grass, on the other hand, does not require mowing and can provide a consistently green appearance throughout the year.
For busy households, rental properties, commercial areas, childcare centres and locations where regular lawn maintenance is difficult, artificial grass can be a practical alternative.
How Long Does Artificial Grass Last?
The lifespan of artificial grass depends on several factors, including product quality, installation, traffic levels, exposure to the weather and maintenance.
A properly selected and installed product can provide many years of use.
However, it is important to choose a product based on its intended application rather than simply selecting the longest or thickest grass available.
For example, a high-traffic commercial area may require a different product from a small decorative backyard.
Artificial Grass in Melbourne
Artificial grass has become a popular landscaping option across Melbourne for both residential and commercial projects.
Melbourne properties can have a wide variety of landscaping requirements, from small suburban backyards to large commercial developments.
Artificial grass can be used to create low-maintenance outdoor areas while maintaining a green appearance throughout the year.
For commercial projects, selecting the right product is particularly important because the grass may need to withstand significantly more foot traffic than a typical residential garden.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
In most cases, the name artificial grass, synthetic turf or Astroturf is less important than the specifications of the actual product.
When comparing products, look at:
Pile height
Fibre material
Fibre density
Backing quality
Drainage
UV resistance
Intended application
Warranty
Price per square metre
Availability and supply
A good supplier should also be able to help you select a product based on your specific project rather than simply recommending the most expensive option.
Final Thoughts
Artificial grass, synthetic turf and Astroturf are often used to describe similar types of synthetic grass, but they are not technically identical terms.
Artificial grass is a general term commonly used for residential and landscaping applications, while synthetic turf is a broader industry term that is also frequently used for commercial and sports applications. AstroTurf, meanwhile, is a well-known brand name that has become part of everyday language.
If you are planning an artificial grass project, focus less on the terminology and more on the product’s construction, quality, intended use and installation requirements.
At The Garden of Paradise, we supply a wide range of artificial grass products for residential, landscaping and commercial applications across Melbourne. Our team can help you compare different pile heights and product options based on your project requirements.
Visit our warehouse in Ravenhall to view our artificial grass range and samples.