13 Top Tips for Designing a Pro-Grade Putting Green With Artificial Grass

Tired of driving to your local golf course to play your favorite sport? Why not build a putting green with artificial grass in your backyard?

Synthetic turf for golf offers the same playability as the turf at the course but with extra benefits. Unlike natural grass, it takes only hours or days to set up, is impervious to golf damage, and is a breeze to maintain. It also works well with any design, and with the following tips, you can build a pro-grade backyard putting green in no time!

1. Choose the Right Artificial Grass

Not all artificial grass is created equal. For a pro-grade putting green, you’ll need a high-quality turf specifically designed for golf. 

Look for grass with a short, dense pile (typically 3/8″ to 1/2″ in height) and a high stitch rate for a smooth, consistent playing surface. When in doubt, consult your synthetic turf installer.

2. Design for Realistic Play

Incorporate various elements that mimic real golf course conditions in your design. These may include undulations, multiple hole locations, fringe areas, and sand traps. 

A well-designed green will challenge your skills and make games and practice more enjoyable.

3. Plan Proper Drainage

Synthetic grass has a permeable backing that lets it drain water quickly. But if your green has a lot of slopes and steep inclines, it pays to take extra measures to further facilitate drainage. 

Work with an expert installer to ensure water will drain away from the surface. This is a must if you live in a rainy or flood-prone area.

4. Opt for Professional Installation

While DIY installations can save money, hiring a professional artificial grass installer is crucial for a professional-grade putting green. 

Expert installers have the knowledge and experience to ensure your green is installed correctly, providing a smooth, consistent surface that lasts for years. They can also help you upgrade your design, maximize your space, and choose the best golf turf for your setup.

5. Incorporate Chipping Areas

Want to practice chip shots and pitch shots? Add chipping areas around your putting green artificial grass to level up your short game. 

Cover these areas with slightly taller artificial grass for a more realistic feel and set them apart from the rest of your green.

6. Invest in High-Quality Accessories

Complete your backyard putting green with high-quality accessories, such as flagsticks, cups, and ball washers. These items will not only enhance your practice experience but also add a professional touch to your green’s appearance.

7. Light It Up

Extend your practice sessions into the evening by installing outdoor lighting around your putting green. Opt for LED lights, which are energy-efficient and provide excellent visibility. 

Strategically place the lights to minimize shadows and ensure an evenly lit playing surface.

8. Get Inspired by the Pros

Research professional golf courses and take inspiration from their putting greens. Pay attention to the layout, design elements, and overall aesthetic. Incorporating these aspects into your backyard green will help you create a truly professional-grade experience.

9. Customize the Green Speed

The speed of your putting green is a key factor in simulating real golf course conditions. 

To adjust the speed of your artificial grass surface, work with your installer to select the right infill material. You can add fine sand or specialized infill products to achieve your desired green speed or Stimpmeter rating. Choosing Field Turf synthetic grass also helps.

10. Create a Multi-Tier Green

Adding multiple tiers to your backyard putting green introduces different levels of difficulty and enhances your practice experience. 

Multi-tier greens offer varying slopes and breaks, which allow you to practice a variety of putts and approach shots. Work with your installer to design a green with seamless transitions between the tiers for a smooth and consistent playing surface.

11. Landscape the Green

Incorporating landscaping elements such as plants, rocks, and water features can make your backyard putting green look more appealing and professional. Install artificial grass around the pool if you include one. Then, choose low-maintenance plants and materials that complement the overall design of your backyard.

13. Consider a Surrounding Pathway

To create a clean and polished look, consider installing a pathway around your putting green. You can use pavers, concrete, decomposed granite, or even wood panels. If there are existing pathways or hardscapes in your outdoor space, you can use the same type for a more cohesive aesthetic. 

Practice and Play Like a Pro at Home!

With these expert tips, you’re well on your way to designing a backyard artificial putting green that rivals the pros. 

Ready to build the perfect putting green right outside your door? Field Turf Landscape can help! We have premium artificial grass for golf and high-quality putting green accessories  and our dealer network is ready for installation. Tell us what your dream green looks like, and our dealers will turn it into reality. 
Call us now at 866-352-4575 or message us online for a quote!