Infill may be invisible, but it’s absolutely critical for putting green artificial grass. This crucial material fills the blades of synthetic turf to enable the look, feel, and performance that make today’s faux lawns and home putting greens nearly indistinguishable from the real thing.
For putting greens specifically, the type, amount, and distribution of infill can also influence surface stability and ball-roll performance.
But what exactly is infill and what types are out there? We’re answering those questions and mor
What Is Infill and Why Do You Need It?
It refers to the material that fills the turf backing to the top of the grass blades. It’s usually fine-grained sand or granules of rubber, minerals, or organic materials like cork.
For artificial putting greens, infill should be selected according to the specific turf system and the desired playing characteristics rather than treating every type of artificial grass the same.
It plays several roles in artificial grass installations:
- Weighs Down Putting Green Turf – It provides weight and stability to the artificial blades to keep them upright. Without infill the blades would easily crush down and mat, especially if you play on your putting green often.
- Resilience – The infill allows the blades to rebound after use for consistent cushioning. This enhances the natural feel underfoot and makes sure it’s ready for your next round of practice.
- Support – It offers support to the turf backing for durability. It helps protect against compaction and damage, all of which can affect the performance of backyard putting greens.
- Aesthetics – Infill helps produce a lush, vibrant landscape that convincingly mimics real grass.
For putting surfaces, properly specified infill can also help installers fine-tune surface characteristics for more consistent ball roll. FieldTurf’s putting-green installation process includes applying the appropriate infill for the desired speed rating.
As you can see, infill isn’t just filler—it affects everything from the look and feel of artificial grass to its performance.
Also Read: Does Artificial Putting Green Turf Need Infill?
Common Types of Infill for Artificial Grass
From silica sand to colorful rubber granules, it comes in many forms. The right type for your project depends on factors like budget, pets, climate, and primary use. Here are some examples:
The appropriate infill depends on the turf system, intended use, performance requirements, climate, and other project-specific factors.
- Silica Sand
Silica sand infill is a popular choice for lawns and general landscaping. This natural sand is non-staining, affordable, and provides stability and support to artificial turf. It also allows for efficient drainage.
- Coated Silica Sand
Acrylic coating helps reduce compaction while retaining the affordability and drainage of silica infill. It also minimizes dust for a cleaner landscape. The coating comes in various hues, like green, tan, or brown, to blend with grass colors.
- Organic Infill
For an eco-friendly, natural option, organic infills like cork, coconut fibers, or walnut shells are growing in popularity. Organic infill options can provide an alternative to traditional sand-based products, but suitability depends on the turf system and intended application.
The right type of infill for your putting green still depends on the specifics of your project and we can discuss that during our call.
If you’re planning the complete green rather than choosing infill alone, see our guide on how to install an artificial putting green for a closer look at the installation process.
Also Read: Keeping Your Family Safe with Artificial Grass Infill
Book a FREE Consultation
To learn more about infill and other aspects of putting green artificial grass installation, please send us a message to book a consultation.
We’d love to hear your ideas, including the design you want for your artificial putting green, any features you have in mind, and if you have any concerns. Let us know if you have any other questions – we’ll get back to you promptly.
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Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ's)
What is turf infill for artificial grass, and why is it important?
Turf infill is the material placed between the blades of artificial grass. It adds weight, supports the turf fibres, improves ball roll, and provides cushioning for putting greens.
What is artificial grass infill made of?
Artificial grass infill can be made from silica sand, coated sand, crumb rubber, or organic options like cork and coconut fibres, depending on the application.
Do you need infill for synthetic turf?
Yes. Infill for synthetic grass helps maintain blade structure, prevents matting, improves drainage, and enhances the overall lifespan of the turf.
What type of sand is best for artificial turf?
Silica sand is the most common choice for artificial turf infill because it provides stability and even distribution. For putting green sand, fine-grade silica ensures a smooth ball roll.
How much infill do you need for artificial grass?
The amount of infill depends on turf type and usage. On average, artificial turf installation requires 1–2 pounds of infill per square foot.
What happens if you don’t use infill on fake grass?
Without infill, artificial grass blades may flatten, ball roll becomes inconsistent on putting greens, and the turf may wear out much faster.
Is infill different for putting greens compared to lawns?
Yes. Putting green infill uses finer silica sand for smoother ball performance, while lawns may use coarser sand or a mix with antimicrobial infill for pets.
Can you use normal sand as artificial turf filler?
While some homeowners use regular sand, it is recommended to use turf-specific silica sand or engineered infill to prevent compaction and ensure proper drainage.
How does infill affect golf ball performance on a putting green?
Proper infill ensures consistent speed, true roll, and better ball control on artificial putting green surfaces, mimicking natural golf greens.
What is the best infill for artificial putting green grass?
The best infill for a backyard putting green is high-quality silica sand or specialized putting green infill, as it offers smooth playability and long-lasting durability.
