Putting a green on your existing lawn can transform your backyard and make it feel like you have your own miniature golf course. With some planning and preparation, you can install a putting green that looks professional and provides hours of entertainment. Here are some key steps to follow when putting a green on an existing lawn:
Determine the Location
First, pick the spot in your yard where you want to install the putting green. Look for a relatively flat area of at least 10′ x 10′ in size. Make sure the area gets plenty of sunlight – at least 5-6 hours per day. Avoid overly shady areas under trees. Also, try to pick a spot with good drainage and no major bumps or divots.
Remove the Existing Grass
Once you’ve identified the location, remove the grass and other plant material in that area. You can rent a sod cutter to strip away the grass neatly. Or use a flat shovel to take off the first 1-2 inches of dirt and grass. Clear out any large rocks or roots. Prepare the ground until you have bare dirt that is smooth, flat, and ready for the base materials.
Install the Base Materials
The ideal base for a putting green consists of these layers from bottom to top:
- Gravel – 4-6 inches of gravel pounded flat to form a sub-base
- Sand – 2 inches of sharp, washed concrete sand
- Compacted soil – Mix of sand, compost, and topsoil packed down
Install these layers and pack each one down thoroughly before adding the next. Use a hand tamper or roller to compact each layer. This will create a flat, stable base for the artificial turf.
Lay the Artificial Turf
Once the base is ready, install your artificial putting green turf according to the manufacturer’s directions. Cut the turf to fit the area, allowing a few extra inches for the edges. Attach the seams with special turf tape. Hammer in any edges or seams for a smooth, secure application.
Install the Cups
Insert your putting green cups in the appropriate spots per your design plan. Make sure they are centered and level in the turf. Place cups at varying lengths to challenge your putting skills. Most greens have 9 or 18 holes total. Let the turf settle around the cups for the best hold.
Apply Infill Materials
Artificial putting greens often require infill materials scattered on top to provide stability, a proper playing surface, and natural appearance. Typical options include:
- Silica sand
- Copolymer beads
- Ground rubber
Spread infill according to the turf manufacturer’s rate. Brush the materials between the fibers so it filters down. Avoid excessive filling between the turf blades.
Groom and Brush Regularly
To keep your artificial putting green performing its best, groom and brush it regularly. Use a stiff natural bristle brush to smooth out the turf fibers and keep them standing upright. Grooming also helps blend the infill. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for grooming frequency.
Have Fun!
Once your new putting green is completed, have fun practicing your short game! Work on accuracy, distance, and reading the breaks. Make up games to play with friends and family. With regular care and maintenance, an artificial putting green can provide many years of entertainment right in your own backyard.
Installing a putting green in your yard is a bigger project than simply planting new grass seed. But the effort pays off by adding a fun recreational feature the whole family can enjoy. Follow these key steps, and soon you’ll have your own picturesque personal putting paradise!
Frequently Asked Questions
What size should I make my putting green?
A backyard putting green can range in size from as small as 8′ x 8′ up to 20′ x 40′ or more for an expansive green. Most homeowners opt for greens between 10′ to 15′ wide and 15′ to 30′ long. This allows room for a few holes and space to take full putting swings.
How much does it cost to install a putting green?
You can install a basic artificial putting green at home for around $2,000-$4,000 in materials. High-end custom greens designed and built by professionals can cost $8,000-$12,000 or more.
What maintenance does an artificial putting green require?
Artificial putting greens need occasional grooming with a stiff broom to fluff the turf fibers and spread the infill materials. Hole edges may need minor trimming. You’ll also want to wash off dirt or debris now and then. But overall, artificial turf requires much less upkeep than real bentgrass.
What are putting greens made of?
Putting greens can be made from natural grass, usually cultivated bentgrass. Or many homeowners and golf courses now install artificial putting greens, made from special turf materials like polyethylene or nylon. The pile is designed to replicate smooth grass.
How do you speed up a slow putting green?
To increase the speed of a putting green, try lowering the height of cut on the grass. For bentgrass greens, mow down to 1/8″ height. Check that grooming equipment is not restricting ball roll. Aerate the green to avoid soil compaction. Topdressing with sand can also increase putting speed on natural grass greens.
Choosing a Putting Green Turf
One of the biggest decisions in constructing a new putting green is choosing the right turf product. Here are some things to consider when selecting turf:
- Fiber types – Polyethylene and nylon are common. Polyethylene resists matting and nylon provides a smooth roll.
- Pile height – Standard heights from 1/2″ to 3/4″ mimic mowed grass on the green.
- Backing – Needled backing is lower cost while tufted backing offers increased durability.
- Density – Higher turf densities (60+ ounces per square foot) replicate a lush, full grass appearance.
- Shade tolerance – Some turfs adapt better to lower light conditions.
- Warranties – Better turf brands provide 8-15 year material warranties.
Be sure to buy from established turf manufacturers like ActGlobal, Shaw Sports Turf, and ForeverLawn. Consulting the vendor can help select the ideal turf product for your specific putting green project and climate.
Planning Your Putting Green Design
One of the fun parts of installing a new putting green is planning the layout. Here are some elements to consider when designing your backyard putting green:
- Number of holes – 9 or 18 holes is typical for backyard greens. Make some holes shorter and some longer.
- Hole position – Vary the placement of cups across the green area. Avoid clusters.
- Topography – Design subtle slopes, mounds, or undulations for interesting putts.
- Bunkers or hazards – Add sand bunkers or water hazards for additional challenge.
- Edge style – Square edges, rounded corners, or freeform shapes help define the green.
Sketch ideas to visualize the layout. It helps to model options in software like SketchUp.You may also want a pro designer or installer to plan the details. The design heavily influences the putting experience, so take time to get it right before installation.
Improving Your Short Game
One of the great benefits of a backyard putting green is improving your overall golf skills, especially your short game. Here are some ways to get the most training value from your new practice green:
- Practice regularly – Aim for 20-30 minutes daily if possible.
- Focus on speed – Gauge distances and dial in green speeds.
- Vary putt lengths – Work on both short taps and long lag putts.
- Change stances – Putt from different angles to the hole.
- Read the break – Take note of subtle slopes and gradations.
- Track stats – Record putts holed versus attempts to monitor progress.
Having your own private putting green makes working on these essential putting and chipping skills convenient. Before long, you may take strokes off your scores by honing your short game at home.
Caring for a Natural Grass Putting Green
While artificial turf requires minimal maintenance, caring for a natural grass putting green involves more time and work. Here are some tips for keeping natural grass healthy and rolling smooth:
- Mow frequently – Up to once per day during peak season.
- Fertilize – Use balanced fertilizer formulated for greens.
- Aerate – Punch holes in the surface annually to prevent compaction.
- Topdress – Brush thin layers of sand into the canopy regularly.
- Groom – Use specialized motorized greens groomers.
- Roll – A lawn roller keeps the surface true and smooth.
- Overseed – Annually overseed to maintain turf density.
- Weed control – Proactively treat weeds since they spread quickly on greens.
- Water – Irrigate lightly and frequently to keep grass hydrated.
Proper maintenance requires knowledge and specialized equipment. Hiring an experienced greenskeeper is a good investment for homeowners with natural grass putting greens.
Putting Green Accessories
The right accessories can enhance the functionality and appearance of your backyard putting green. Here are some popular accents and add-ons:
Flags –
Customizable flags mark each hole and add a nice look. Opt for double thickness nylon or appliqued flags.
Cups –
Machined aluminum cups keep the hole edge firm and resist denting or rattling. Upgrade to magnetic cups for satisfaction removing sunk putts.
Benches –
Benches situated nearby give golfers a place to relax between shots. Select durable metal or composite wood benches.
Ball return –
Automated ball return systems conveniently deliver balls back to the putting start area.
Fringe –
Installing artificial fringe around the green defines edges and mimics course appearance.
Putting mats –
Use putting mats or strips to create flat tee-off sections adjacent to the green.
Distance markers –
Markers indicate yardages to help practice lag putting and improve distance control.
Personalize your green with fun golf-themed accessories and furniture. For a more authentic look, check out accessories made specifically for golf greens and tee boxes.
Backyard Putting Green Ideas
Making your backyard putting green both fun and functional takes thoughtful planning. Keep these creative ideas in mind:
- Add contour – Gentle slopes and breaks test putting skill.
- Space holes out – Spread the holes rather than grouping in one area.
- Try a kidney shape – Extended kidney or bean shapes maximize playability.
- Allow approach space – Leave room to chip or pitch to the green.
- Permeable base – Permeable layers help rain soak through.
- Edging options – Consider brick, stone, or concrete borders.
- Fun themes – Decorate with mini golf or local course themes.
- Try tiers – Separate upper and lower tiered sections.
If you have the space and budget, adding features like bunkers or water elements can take your putting green design to the next level. Let your imagination run wild – this is your own DIY golf haven!
Regulations for Backyard Putting Greens
Before installing a personal putting green, be sure to review regulations specific to your area. Here are some key considerations:
- Zoning – Some homeowners’ associations (HOAs) prohibit putting greens.
- Setbacks – Greens may need to be set back from property lines.
- Water use – Sprinkling rules may apply if using a natural grass surface.
- Bunkers – Digging deep bunkers may require permits.
- Synthetic turf – Some cities regulate fake grass installation.
- Fencing – Visible fencing around the green may be restricted.
- Lighting – Installing outdoor lights could require permits.
Checking with local zoning and permit offices can help avoid problems down the road. Submit plans early to resolve any potential issues with regulations before purchasing materials and starting work.
Putting Green Installation Tips
Careful installation ensures your backyard putting green looks and performs its best. Keep these key tips in mind during the construction process:
- Layout – Mark perimeter and focal points like holes with spray paint first.
- Base – Compact each layer thoroughly before adding the next level.
- Seams – Tape and secure seams tightly so edges don’t lift or curl up.
- Drainage – Test drainage before finishing to identify any low spots.
- Groom immediately – Fluff and stand fibers upright after installing turf.
- Dense infill – Maximize infill materials for cushioning and support.
- Settle – Allow fresh turf material to settle for a few days before heavy use.
- Level holes – Ensure cup holes are level and flush with the turf surface.
Taking care with key steps results in a smoothly graded, well-drained putting green that looks and feels authentic. Don’t rush the process – a proper base and seamless turf installation are critical.
Troubleshooting Backyard Putting Greens
Problems sometimes crop up on backyard putting greens after installation. Here are solutions for some common issues:
- Slow speed – Aerate the surface and topdress with fresh sand to increase pace.
- Bumpy terrain – Refill low areas or imperfections with soil, then tamp and topdress.
- Depressions around cup – Lift out cup insert and fill any gaps or holes with extra infill materials.
- Seam lifting – Re-tape any loose seams, applying adhesive beneath for better hold.
- Weeds – Hand pull weeds or spot treat with selective herbicides.
- Moss growth – Remove moss mechanically and apply sodium carbonate to deter further growth.
- Pet damages – Limit pets on green and repair digging or scuff marks with turf fill.
Promptly addressing any problems keeps your putting green in top playing condition. Regular maintenance like grooming, de-thatching, and topdressing can also prevent issues.
Conclusion
Constructing your own putting green is an involved yet satisfying project. By following key steps for site preparation, base installation, and turf application, you can create a gorgeous and functional putting green. Plan the layout, contouring, and accessories to maximize usability and entertainment. With routine care, your backyard oasis will provide years of endless entertainment, all while improving your short game skills!
