Grass vs. Turf: The Showdown Happening in Portland Backyards
If you’ve lived through even one rainy Oregon winter, you know the struggle: muddy shoes, patchy lawns, and the eternal battle against moss. For decades, natural grass has been the go-to choice for Portland homeowners. But lately, synthetic turf has been stealing the spotlight. So which one really wins?
Let’s break it down in a way that matters to you and your backyard dreams.
The Case for Grass
There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-cut grass on a summer morning. Real grass has that nostalgic pull—soft under bare feet, cool to the touch, and alive with seasonal changes.
But here’s the catch: it’s high-maintenance. Grass in the Portland metro thrives in the spring and then suffers in the dry summers. You’ll need consistent mowing, fertilizing, and irrigation. Heavy rains and shade can leave you with bare patches and mud pits in winter instead of a lush lawn.
Grass can be rewarding for homeowners who love gardening and are willing to put in the work. But it demands time, water, and money, three things not everyone wants to invest in their yard.
The Case for Turf
Artificial turf has come a long way since the shiny, plastic-looking rolls you might remember from old sports fields. Today’s synthetic lawns are lush, realistic, and surprisingly versatile.
The perks are hard to ignore:
Year-round green – No more brown patches or mossy corners.
Low maintenance – Say goodbye to mowing, edging, and fertilizing.
Pet and kid-friendly – Stays durable through heavy play.
Water savings – No irrigation means lower bills and eco-friendly use of resources.
There are a few trade-offs. Turf can get hotter than grass in direct sun, so shaded areas are ideal. While it’s an upfront investment, it pays for itself over time in terms of water and maintenance savings.
Which One Fits Your Backyard?
The real question isn’t which is “better”—it’s which is better for you.
Love the ritual of mowing and the smell of summer grass? Stick with natural.
Want to reclaim weekends, cut water bills, and guarantee a lush look all year? Turf might be your winner.
Some homeowners even blend the two: turf in high-traffic or shady spots and grass that is easy to maintain. The mix can give you the best of both worlds.
How Summit Landscape Helps
Whether you’re team grass, team turf, or still on the fence, our crew at Summit Landscape has been installing both for over two decades. Check out our gallery. We know Portland soil, slopes, and drainage inside and out. That means we’ll guide you through the trade-offs, prep your yard the right way, and deliver a natural or synthetic lawn that looks amazing and lasts.
Ready to end the lawn debate once and for all? Let’s design a solution that works for your lifestyle. Request a Quote Today.
