Artificial Grass vs. Hydroseeding: Which is Right for Your Project?
While artificial grass might seem tempting for some, let's be honest—it’s hot, uncomfortable, expensive to maintain, and not great for the environment. We all have that mate that raves about their artificial turf, but then goes on to admit its faults.
That being said, Kiwis often find themselves tossing up between artificial grass and hydroseeding. Each option has its merits, so the right choice comes down to your priorities, budget, and what matters most for your specific project.
Cost Comparison
Artificial grass usually hits your pocket harder upfront due to material and installation costs. Prices can range from $50 to $150 per square metre, depending on the quality. On the flip side, hydroseeding is far easier on the wallet initially, costing between $5 and $10 per square metre.
Installation and Growth Time
Artificial grass provides instant results—you get an immediate, ready-to-use lawn after installation, which usually takes just a few days.
Hydroseeding involves spraying a slurry mix of grass seed, mulch, fertiliser, and water onto prepared soil. You’ll typically see grass sprouting within one to two weeks, with a fully established lawn in about four to six weeks. While it’s not instant, it’s a lot quicker than traditional seeding methods.
Maintenance
Artificial grass might look like an easy fix initially—no mowing, watering, or fertilising. But there's a catch. Cheaper artificial turf from big retailers like Bunnings or Mitre 10 often deteriorates quickly, losing its colour, matting down, and eventually needing costly replacements within just a few years. Plus, artificial turf still needs occasional cleaning and brushing.
Hydroseeded lawns do need regular care, especially while getting established. That means watering, mowing, and fertilising. But once it's established, maintenance settles into a typical lawn care routine—no unexpected replacements, just steady, manageable upkeep.
Environmental Impact
Hydroseeding is clearly the greener option. It supports natural ecosystems, enhances local biodiversity, improves soil health, prevents erosion, and boosts water absorption.
Artificial grass, despite improvements, has some real environmental downsides. It can release harmful microplastics into our environment, limit natural water absorption, affect local wildlife, and generate waste when it's eventually replaced.
Temperature and Comfort
Artificial grass can get scorching hot under New Zealand’s summer sun due to its synthetic material and black backing. That makes it pretty uncomfortable—or even unusable—on hot days.
Hydroseeded lawns stay naturally cooler and softer, making them much more enjoyable for barefoot walks, kids' play, or just relaxing outdoors, even in peak summer.
Injury and Safety
Anyone who’s ever slid on artificial grass knows the painful reality of "turf burn." This friction injury is notoriously uncomfortable and can take time to heal. Hydroseeded lawns, being natural, provide a safer, softer surface, significantly reducing the risk of painful scrapes and burns.
Durability and Longevity
Top-quality artificial grass can last between 10 to 20 years, depending on how well it's maintained and how much it’s used, making it useful for areas that get little sunlight or heavy foot traffic.
Hydroseeded grass may occasionally need patching or reseeding in high-traffic areas, but with regular care, your natural lawn can last indefinitely.
Aesthetic and Feel
Artificial grass might keep a lush, green look year-round, but it never quite matches the authentic feel and natural beauty of real grass.
Hydroseeded lawns naturally change with the seasons, providing a genuine, living landscape that feels great underfoot and looks good year-round.
Choosing the Best Option
If you’re after an instant lawn that won’t be in direct sun, minimal upkeep, and a consistent look (and you're prepared to invest in high-quality artificial grass), this might be your choice. But if you prefer affordability, eco-friendliness, comfort, and a natural appearance, hydroseeding is likely your best bet.
Ready to create a lawn you’ll love? Get in touch with our expert team today and let's get your project underway!
