DIY Ground Preparation Dos and Don’ts for DIYers of the Best Putting Greens

Taking the DIY approach with your backyard golf course? Make sure to prepare the ground like a pro for the best putting greens. How you lay down the foundation of your putting green will impact the game experience for as long as you have it.

While you may not have the level of experience that expert installers have when it comes to ground preparations, rest assured that you can still achieve your dream green. Let these dos and don’ts guide you towards setting an excellent foundation for your new putting green.

Dos and Don’ts of Putting Green Ground Preparation

The foundation of your golf course defines its playability. It can change the terrain of the installation, interfere with the putting green’s accessories, and affect the way the synthetic turf responds to impact.

Here’s what you should and shouldn’t do while laying down the foundation of your putting green installation:

• DO get rid of all the organics.

Remove all the plants, roots, weeds, and natural turf on the installation site. You should remove about 3-4 inches of soil and replace it with compacted class 2 permeable base rock to ensure a solid foundation.

• DON’T disregard the plumbing.

Determine the existence of pipes running directly under the installation site. Make sure you’re aware of where they are to avoid damaging the pipes while you prepare the ground for the best artificial turf. If the plumbing directly obstructs your putting green, consider removing or relocating it. 

• DO establish the soil conditions.

Determine the drainage capabilities of the ground and take note of its soil type. These will help you pick the best turf aggregate for your putting green. Disregarding the ground conditions during your material selection process can diminish the playability of your course.

• DON’T settle for generic infill.

Keep the soil type of your installation site in mind when you pick an infill for your putting green. If it features poor drainage, select a stone-based infill. Otherwise, go for finely-textured infill types like sharp sand. Talk to your synthetic turf supplier for expert advice.

Not only will compaction result in an even putting green, but it’ll also make the installation more durable. Rent or borrow an electric compaction plate for the job. If there are any wrinkles, use a straight piece of timber to level them out. Make sure the surface is crease-free to achieve the best putting greens.

• DON’T skimp out on weed prevention measures.

Invest in a geotextile layer or weed barrier to keep even the most persistent organic growth from getting through your putting green. Place it under or above the infill.

Lay Down the Foundation of Your Putting Green Like a Pro  

Done preparing the ground? It’s time to install synthetic turf for your golf course! From premium synthetic turf for putting greens to the best artificial grass accessories, Artificial Turf Express has everything you need to turn the golf paradise of your dreams into a reality. Call us now at 408-960-2255 to learn how we can help you with your project!