When it comes to small outdoor spaces, choosing the right grass can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to create a lush backyard sanctuary or a practical patch of lawn, selecting a grass variety that thrives in your environment is key. In this blog, we take a look at some of the best turf options for small outdoor spaces.
Small spaces often come with unique challenges like limited sunlight, higher foot traffic, or exposure to heat from surrounding walls and pavements. The right grass can help you create a resilient and visually appealing lawn that complements your lifestyle.
If you are unsure of how much light your area gets, we recommend taking photos of your area at 2-hour intervals throughout the day. E.g. 7am, 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm. These photos will give you a better indication of sunlight in your area so you can choose a suitable turf type.
When assessing your areas shade, it is also important to take note of any trees or plants that will grow and shade the area in the coming years.
When turfing smaller areas where pets and kids will be using the lawn, it is important to note that the grass is likely to experience more wear in a smaller area compared to a larger lawn as there will be less space for play. Choosing a grass that will be able to withstand this increased wear is important.
Sir Walter DNA Certified is the best all round grass for smaller spaces. Sir Walter has a high shade tolerance needing a minimum of 3-4 hours of direct light per day to thrive. This is a family friendly, low maintenance grass with a beautiful soft broadleaf that is great with pets and kids. Sir Walter DNA Certified is also versatile grass suited to a range of climates all across Australia.
Zoysia Australis is also another ideal option, with qualities similar to Sir Walter DNA Certified but with a finer leaf. The Zoysia Australis has a medium leaf width and a beautiful blue/green colour. Zoysia Australis will need a minimum of 4 hours of direct sun per day with less mowing requirements. This is an ideal option for Aussie backyards as it has a good wear tolerance and recovery.
If your lawn will get lots of traffic from pets and kids and will get plenty of sun, an ideal option to look into is TifTuf Hybrid Bermuda. TifTuf has superior wear tolerance and a fast-repairing nature, so if it becomes damaged by pets or kids, it will repair itself quickly. It also has a superior drought tolerance and is formally recognised as Smart Drop Certified. While this grass performs fantastically, it also has a soft, fine leaf and can be maintained at a lower height of cut for a more manicured look. With TifTuf, it is also important to note that it requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct light per day to thrive.
If you would like some more specific advice on choosing the best grass type for your area or are ready to get your new lawn, get in touch with your local Lawn Solutions Australia member here.
For more lawn care tips and advice, make sure to check out our other lawn care blogs here.