A Quick Guide to Keeping Your Synthetic Lawn Bug-Free

Replacing your lawn with artificial turf in Dallas automatically cuts down the pest population in your backyard. It’s simple – artificial grass doesn’t provide the natural food sources or habitats that many pests need.

Without organic matter to feed on or burrow into, pests like grubs, ants, and fleas have little reason to infest synthetic turf. Additionally, artificial grass is typically installed with a solid base layer that makes it difficult for pests to tunnel through. 

That said, even the best residential artificial turf installation can’t guarantee a 100% pest-free space. There are many reasons why pests can still find their way onto a synthetic lawn, such as:

1. Nearby Food Sources

• Fruit Trees and Vegetable Gardens: Fruit trees and vegetable gardens can be a significant attraction for pests. Fallen fruits and vegetables provide a food source for insects and rodents. 
• Pet Food: Leaving pet food outdoors can attract a variety of pests, including ants and rodents. 

2. Standing Water

• Poor Drainage: Artificial grass typically has good drainage, but if your installation has low spots or areas where water collects, it can create a breeding ground for mosquitoes and other moisture-loving pests. 
• Water Features: If you have water features like fountains or ponds near your artificial lawn, they must be well-maintained and free of stagnant water, which can attract pests.

3. Organic Debris

• Fallen Leaves and Twigs: Organic debris such as leaves, twigs, and grass clippings can accumulate on your synthetic turf. These materials can provide shelter and food for bugs.
• Mulch and Compost: While mulch and compost are great for natural gardens, they can attract pests. Keep these materials away from your artificial lawn to minimize the risk of pest migration.

4. Adjacent Vegetation

Dense shrubs, tall grass, and overgrown plants near your property line can harbor pests. These pests may eventually move from the vegetation onto your synthetic turf. Keep plants well-trimmed and maintain a clear boundary between vegetation and your artificial grass.

Proven Solutions for Artificial Grass Pest Problems

If you do notice pests on your artificial grass, don’t panic. Artificial grass makes it super easy to get rid of them, especially when you consistently apply these tips:

• Identify and Remove Food Sources

Regularly clean outdoor eating areas and store pet food securely. Promptly dispose of fallen fruit from trees and vegetables from gardens. By removing these food sources, you can reduce the likelihood of attracting pests.

• Improve Drainage

Ensure your artificial grass has proper drainage to prevent standing water. This may involve re-grading low spots, installing French drains, or adding additional drainage systems. Regularly check for and address any drainage issues. If you have concerns, contact the Synthetic Grass DFW team ASAP.

• Keep It Clean

Regularly remove organic debris from your artificial lawn using a leaf blower, rake, or turf vacuum. Keeping your synthetic turf clean will deprive pests of potential habitats. Schedule regular maintenance sessions to keep debris at bay.

• Trim Adjacent Vegetation

Maintain nearby plants by trimming back overgrown areas and keeping vegetation away from your artificial grass. This minimizes the chance of pests migrating from plants to your synthetic turf. 

• Use Natural Repellents

Spread diatomaceous earth or sprinkle cedar wood chips around the perimeter of your artificial grass. These natural repellents can help deter crawling insects such as ants and beetles. Diatomaceous earth works by dehydrating insects, while cedar wood chips release oils that pests find unpleasant.

• Maintain Your Turf

Brush your artificial grass fibers periodically to prevent matting and maintain proper infill levels. Properly maintained infill discourages pests from nesting. Use a stiff-bristled brush to keep the fibers upright and the infill evenly distributed.

Keep Pests at Bay, the Artificial Turf Way

While artificial grass significantly reduces pest problems compared to natural lawns, maintenance on your part still matters. Want to learn more or interested in an installation? Contact Synthetic Grass DFW today at 214-972-0449 or send us a quick message to schedule your free consultation.