November 08, 2022

Los Angeles and Southern California homeowners appreciate synthetic turf because of its ability to withstand harsh weather and survive winter appearing perfect. You won’t have to worry about frost destroying your turf, but there are some steps to follow throughout winter to ensure your turf is in its greatest shape for spring. Read on to learn more.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Let’s get started with a handful of the top questions we get as we install artificial turf in Los Angeles and Southern California. Especially questions about caring for your grass in the winter season.

WHAT DOES SNOW DO TO SYNTHETIC GRASS?

Ice shouldn’t have a big impact on your artificial grass. It is totally okay to play or walk on it if there is a blanket of snow. The blades may mat down under the weight of the snow, but it generally lifts back up naturally or, in a handful of cases, with a little extra help from a power broom. Snow will not change the color or damage the synthetic lawn.

WILL FROST HURT MY ARTIFICIAL GRASS?

No, frost won’t damage synthetic grass. The individual turf fiber blade does experience freezing in intense cold, walking on the grass through the winter will not cause any concerns. When spring comes and there’s no further chance of frost, you can use a firm broom to get it back to life.

DO I NEED TO COVER MY SYNTHETIC GRASS?

You do not need to cover your synthetic grass, but you absolutely can if an especially harsh winter is expected in Los Angeles and Southern California. Just bear in mind that you won’t want to cover areas that are being used because snow will make tarps slippery and dangerous to walk on.

CAN I SHOVEL SNOW OFF SYNTHETIC TURF?

No, you should avoid shoveling snow from your synthetic grass except when absolutely necessary. If you do need to clean a path, go with a handheld blower to get rid of any snow or debris.

CAN I USE SALT OR ICE MELT ON MY TURF?

You must not use any ice melt salt on your artificial grass. Salt can plug up the drains in the backing system and badly affect your lawn’s drainage capabilities. The corrosive salt and chemicals can also react the backing system, causing turf blades which start separating from the backing. We strongly advise you to let snow melt by itself for the desired results.

WILL SNOW MELT QUICKER ON ARTIFICIAL GRASS?

Synthetic grass surfaces can be warmer compared to natural grass, that means that a couple of inches of snow will melt faster than it would on regular turf. Because synthetic turf is uniformly distributed, it allows enhanced aeration to hasten the snow-melting process.

DOES SYNTHETIC TURF GET ICY?

Not necessarily, however, just like natural grass, some artificial surfaces can become slippery in sub-zero weather. Therefore, you should use the same care you do stepping on any other wintery surface, essentially if Los Angeles and Southern California has been experiencing freezing rain.

WHAT STEPS SHOULD I TAKE BEFORE SNOWFALL?

You should surely do a good fall maintenance routine prior to any snowfall. Getting rid of organic materials like branches, leaves, etc., are a must. You can check out our full guide for cleaning your artificial grass to get particulars on what to do. Carrying out Southwest Greens maintenance in the spring is always a good time, ensuring your turf is prepared for the warmer months to come.