Pros And Cons of Artificial Grass Maintenance: How to Look After Your Lawn in Perth’s Climate

Thinking about switching to artificial grass in your Perth backyard? You’re not alone!

With Perth’s challenging weather conditions and the growing demand for low-maintenance landscaping, artificial grass has become a popular choice for homeowners.

But like every landscaping option, it has its fair share of pros and cons, especially when it comes to maintenance.

From offering a lush, green look all year round to eliminating the need for mowing or watering, artificial turf has some undeniable perks. However, it’s not without its downsides, including potential costs and upkeep challenges over time.

To keep your lawn looking vibrant and green 365 days a year, read on.

While the artificial lawn is designed to be low-maintenance, it still requires some attention to keep it looking fresh, clean, and long-lasting—especially in Perth, where the climate can be a bit unforgiving.

The process usually involves a few key tasks:

• Brushing the grass to prevent matting and maintain its upright appearance.
• Removing debris such as leaves, sticks, and dirt to avoid build-up.
• Washing or hosing down the grass to clean off dust and spills.
• Treating odours (especially if pets use it) with specialised cleaning products.
• Weed control, as weeds, can still sprout around the edges or through the backing if not properly installed.

Say Goodbye to Mowing and Watering

Let’s be honest—mowing the lawn is nobody’s idea of a fun weekend. With synthetic grass, you can bid farewell to the lawnmower. Synthetic turf stays perfectly trimmed and lush without you having to lift a finger.

Outdoor water use accounts for nearly 40% of household water consumption. By installing synthetic turf, you can save thousands of litres of water per year, making it an eco-friendly choice in a region prone to water restrictions.

Stays Green, Even in Perth’s Harsh Climate

Perth’s Mediterranean climate is beautiful, but let’s face it—it’s not ideal for natural grass. With long, dry summers and inconsistent rainfall, keeping a traditional lawn healthy can be a Herculean task.

Synthetic lawn, on the other hand, remains green and lush all year round, no matter the weather.

It’s UV-stabilised to withstand Australia’s scorching sun without fading or wilting, making it a long-term solution that retains its vibrant look even after years of use.

Low Maintenance = More Free Time

While artificial grass does require some maintenance (we’ll get to that later), it’s a far cry from the endless mowing, fertilising, weeding, and watering that a natural lawn demands. A quick brush here, a rinse there, and you’re done!

This means more time for barbecues, relaxing, and actually enjoying your outdoor space rather than working on it. For busy families or anyone who doesn’t want their weekends eaten up by lawn care, this is a huge plus.

Pet and Kid-Friendly Fun

For families with pets or kids, artificial turf is a game-changer. It creates a soft, cushioned surface that’s perfect for running, playing, and rolling around.

And since it’s non-toxic and hypoallergenic, you won’t need to worry about harsh chemicals or fertilisers harming your little ones—or your four-legged friends.

Plus, it’s easy to clean. Accidents? No problem—just rinse with water and use a pet-safe odour neutraliser to keep it fresh.

Cost-Effective Over Time

Sure, the upfront cost of installing artificial lawn might make you do a double-take. But think about it: once it’s installed, your ongoing maintenance expenses drop significantly.

No more buying fertilisers, lawnmower fuel, or sprinkler repairs. According to some estimates, the average Australian homeowner can save up to $1,200 annually by ditching natural grass in favour of artificial turf.

Over time, those savings add up, making synthetic grass a smart financial investment.

Reduces Allergies and Pests

For those who struggle with hay fever or allergies, synthetic turf offers sweet relief. Without pollen-producing plants, you can enjoy your backyard without sneezing up a storm.

Additionally, synthetic lawns don’t attract insects like traditional grass does. No grass = no ants, mosquitoes, or other critters taking up residence in your lawn. It’s a win-win!

Upfront Costs Can Be Steep

There’s no getting around it—synthetic lawn can be pricey to install. Depending on the size of your yard and the quality of the turf, installation costs can range between $50 to $100 per square metre, including labour.

For an average-sized backyard in Perth, you could be looking at several thousand dollars upfront.

While the long-term savings can balance this out, the initial price tag is something to consider, especially if you’re working within a tight budget.

It’s Not Completely Maintenance-Free

Yes, artificial grass requires less maintenance than natural grass, but “low maintenance” isn’t the same as “no maintenance.” You’ll still need to:

• Brush it regularly to prevent matting.
• Hose it down to remove dirt, pet mess, or spills.
• Use specialised cleaners for odours or stubborn stains.

For homeowners who expected to just “set it and forget it,” this upkeep might come as a surprise.

Can Get Hot Underfoot

One of the most common complaints about artificial turf is that it heats up under direct sunlight.

On a scorching Perth summer day, the surface temperature of synthetic turf can exceed 60°C, making it uncomfortable—even dangerous—for kids or pets to play on.

While adding shade or cooling solutions like hosing it down can help, this is still a drawback for families who plan to use their lawns as outdoor play spaces.

Environmental Concerns

Although artificial lawn reduces water consumption, it’s not entirely eco-friendly. Most synthetic turf is made from plastics like polyethylene or polypropylene, which are petroleum-based products.

Manufacturing these materials contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, and at the end of its lifespan, artificial turf often ends up in landfills because it’s not biodegradable.

Additionally, some argue that it doesn’t support local biodiversity. Natural grass provides a habitat for insects and small animals, whereas artificial turf creates a sterile environment.

Drainage Issues

While modern synthetic grass systems are designed with drainage in mind, improper installation can lead to water pooling or poor runoff during heavy rains. In Perth, where sudden downpours can occur, this can become a frustrating issue.

Ensuring proper installation by a professional is key, but that, of course, adds to the initial costs.

Artificial Grass vs. Natural Grass Maintenance

Upkeep Requirements

Maintaining natural grass involves mowing, watering, fertilising, aerating, and managing pests or weeds. This means investing significant time, effort, and money into upkeep.

Synthetic turf, on the other hand, requires none of these. Brushing and occasional cleaning are about as complicated as it gets, saving you hours of work each month.

Water Usage

For Perth homeowners, water usage is a major concern. Natural grass demands substantial amounts of water, particularly during Perth’s hot, dry summers. Synthetic lawn eliminates this need entirely, making it a more sustainable option.

Aesthetic Longevity

While natural grass can look stunning when healthy, keeping it in perfect condition is a constant challenge—especially with Perth’s climate. Artificial grass stays vibrant and green year-round, regardless of weather conditions.

Artificial Grass vs. Gravel Landscaping

Aesthetic Appeal

Gravel landscaping is a popular low-maintenance option for Perth properties, especially in drought-prone areas. While it’s durable and requires virtually no upkeep, gravel lacks the lush, inviting look of artificial turf.

For homeowners who want their yard to feel more like a garden and less like a driveway, synthetic turf is the better choice.

Functionality

Artificial lawn provides a soft surface that’s ideal for kids and pets to play on, while gravel can be harsh and uncomfortable underfoot. If your yard is a space for family fun, turf wins hands down.

Cost

Gravel installation is typically cheaper than synthetic grass upfront, but it doesn’t offer the same versatility or aesthetic appeal. Plus, gravel can scatter over time, requiring occasional replenishment to keep things tidy.

Artificial Grass vs. Wooden Decking

Maintenance

Wooden decking offers a sleek, modern alternative to grass, but maintaining it can be just as time-consuming as caring for a natural lawn. It requires regular cleaning, staining, and sealing to protect it from Perth’s intense sun and occasional rainstorms.

Synthetic turf, in contrast, needs less ongoing maintenance, making it a better option for homeowners looking for low-effort landscaping.

Longevity

With proper care, high-quality synthetic lawn can last up to 15 years. Wooden decking, however, may warp, fade, or splinter over time, even with consistent maintenance.

Comfort

Artificial grass offers a softer, cooler surface for lounging or playing, while decking can become hot and uncomfortable under Perth’s summer sun. For a more user-friendly outdoor space, synthetic turf has the edge.

At Evergreen Synthetic Grass, we’ve built a reputation as Perth’s go-to experts for high-quality solutions.

With years of industry experience and a commitment to excellence, we’re here to help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your lawn stays picture-perfect for years to come.

Whether you’re looking for personalised advice, expert installation, or simply want to explore your options, our team has you covered.

Don’t leave your landscaping to chance—trust the industry leader who understands Perth’s unique climate and your needs.

Contact Evergreen Synthetic Grass today at (08) 9303 2130 or claim your FREE quote online to save time (and money).