Natural vs. Artificial Grass: Which is Better for Cold Climates?

December 15, 2022

Winter is here, bringing cozy evenings by the fire, shorter days, and frost on the ground. While many of our customers live in areas with mild winters, they still wonder how artificial grass holds up in cold climates compared to natural grass. The good news is that artificial grass performs very well in cold climates and requires minimal maintenance. Let’s compare how natural and artificial grass fare in cold climates.

Natural Grass in Cold Climates

Anyone who has tried to maintain a natural lawn in the winter knows how challenging it can be. Keeping a natural lawn looking good in frost or snow takes a lot of time, effort, and money.

Brown natural grass after snow

Challenges with Natural Grass in Winter

  • Grass Dying Off: Depending on how extreme your winters are, your natural grass may die off completely.
  • Special Fertilizers: To prepare for spring, you might need to use special fertilizers in winter, on top of the regular fertilizers and chemicals used throughout the year.
  • Weed Control: You will likely need to continue pulling weeds during the winter. Even if the grass dies, pesky weeds can survive the harshest winters.
  • Mowing: You may need to mow your lawn one last time before the first snowfall. If it doesn’t snow, you might have to continue mowing throughout the winter. Spending a cold day doing chores is probably not your idea of a fun winter activity.

Natural grass doesn’t do well in snow or frost because it can freeze and become stiff. Stepping on frozen grass can break it, making spring regrowth even more difficult.

Snow angel reveals g

Artificial Grass in the Winter

In comparison, artificial grass in winter is a low-maintenance choice. Frost doesn’t affect your synthetic grass’s color, rigidity, health, or longevity. Thanks to the efficient draining structure, frost and snow evaporate more quickly on artificial turf versus natural grass. When it comes to maintaining a lawn in winter weather, artificial grass is the clear winner. 

Artificial Grass in Cold Climates

In comparison, artificial grass in winter is a low-maintenance choice. Frost doesn’t affect synthetic grass’s color, rigidity, health, or longevity. Thanks to efficient drainage, frost and snow evaporate more quickly on artificial turf than on natural grass. When it comes to maintaining a lawn in winter weather, artificial grass is the clear winner.

Tips for Maintaining Artificial Grass in Cold Climates

Even in warmer states like Texas or Florida, you might experience temperature drops and winter weather. Maintaining your artificial grass requires a few extra steps, but it’s still much easier than maintaining natural grass.

Steps to Keep Your Artificial Grass Looking Great Year-Round:

  • Brush Your Grass: Use a professional turf brush to reposition the infill and keep the blades structured and strong.
  • Control Debris and Weeds: Use a water-based herbicide that’s safe for turf. Artificial grass is pretty resistant to most weeds, but it’s good to stay proactive.
  • Remove Stains Promptly: Especially in cold climates, clean any stains before they freeze over.
Artificial grass in frosty cold climate

How Does Artificial Grass Hold up in Snow?

Frost doesn’t usually damage artificial grass in the winter, and even heavy snow shouldn’t impact your turf. In fact, you can even walk or play on artificial turf in snow! 

Here are some tips on how to take care of your artificial turf in snow:

  • Shovel with caution
  • Allow snow to melt naturally and gradually on its own
  • Clear debris as needed
  • Tread on your lawn carefully

How Does Artificial Grass Hold Up in Snow?

Frost usually doesn’t damage artificial grass, and heavy snow shouldn’t impact your turf either. You can even walk or play on synthetic grass in the snow! Here are some tips for taking care of your artificial turf in snowy conditions:

  • Shovel with Caution: Avoid using metal shovels that can damage the turf.
  • Let Snow Melt Naturally: Allow snow to melt naturally and gradually.
  • Clear Debris as Needed: Remove any debris to keep your lawn clean.
  • Tread Carefully: Be mindful when walking on the lawn to avoid compacting the snow into the turf.

Simplify Your Winter Yard Maintenance with Magnolia Turf

As you can see, artificial turf holds up well in all weather conditions, including sun, sleet, snow, and hail. It’s durable, long-lasting, environmentally friendly, and low maintenance. Get a free estimate for your artificial lawn this winter by contacting Magnolia Turf Co. We have locations in South Florida, San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and DFW, and we offer a wide variety of synthetic grass products!

Artificial grass is a great choice for cold climates because it remains green and vibrant all year long without the hassle of maintaining natural grass. By choosing artificial turf, you can enjoy a beautiful lawn with minimal upkeep, saving time and money.

If you’re considering installing artificial turf, Magnolia Turf is here to help. Our expert team can guide you through the process, from selecting the right product to professional installation. Whether you need a lush lawn, a durable play area for pets, or a professional-quality putting green, we have the perfect solution for you.

Contact Magnolia Turf today to learn more about our services and discover how we can help you achieve a perfect lawn with minimal maintenance and maximum enjoyment. Let us simplify your winter yard maintenance and enhance your outdoor space with our top-quality artificial grass products.