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💡 Key Takeaway
  • Understand your options – Discover the unique benefits, maintenance requirements, and longevity of artificial turf versus traditional and hydroseeded natural grass.
  • Learn what thrives locally – Explore the specific natural grass varieties (like Kentucky Bluegrass and Tall Fescue) that grow best in Pittsburgh’s climate, and how artificial turf handles the region’s hilly terrain.
  • Trust the experts – Learn how Stockman Lawnscape’s 30 years of local experience and specialized training can guide you to the perfect lawn solution for your lifestyle.

The warmer weather is the perfect time to reassess your property and determine what it needs to function better and increase curb appeal. One of the most important elements to consider is your grass. If your grass needs a refreshment, you can go through two different approaches: planting new seed or installing artificial turf.

30+ years of Pittsburgh lawn expertise

With this many years of experience, Stockman Lawnscape understands individual property needs and is here to help you assess what the best approach would be for your yard.

seed vs. artificial turf

Traditional Seeding and Hydroseeding

If you’re searching for that classic, traditional lawn look at your Pittsburgh home, there are a couple of new lawn installation techniques you can choose from, as well as different types of grass seed.

Traditional seeding is a route many homeowners will take. This option will take more time to see results and requires more upkeep, but the cost savings are significantly higher. Traditional seeding is accomplished through these steps:

  1. Remove all rocks and debris in the area
  2. Add a new layer of topsoil, 2 inches in depth
  3. Lay grass seed with starter fertilizer in the area
  4. Install mushroom compost
  5. Water the grass seed for a period of time

Hydroseeding is an additional option for homeowners and is known to be highly effective for faster growth and germination. This type of application mixes seed water fertilizer, seed mulch, and a bonding agent in a large tank. This is then sprayed through a high-pressure hose on the ground to encourage quick growth.

In the Pittsburgh area, Stockman Lawnscape recommends using three types of grass seed:

Grass Type Best For Key Features
Kentucky bluegrass Cold and drought tolerance Dark green, elegant appearance when properly maintained; not ideal for shady areas but a high-quality option.
Tall fescue Heat, drought, and high-traffic areas Durable and persistent; ideal for lawns, parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields; tolerates shade better; widely planted across Pittsburgh.
Perennial ryegrass Quick establishment Fast germination rate for rapid growth; produces a dark green, medium-textured lawn.

The bottom line: The Stockman team will walk you through your options to ensure that the type of grass seed used is the best fit for your yard and its appearance.

seed vs. artificial turf

Artificial Turf Installation

If a traditional lawn isn’t the right fit due to shade, traffic, pets, or time constraints, artificial turf offers a low-maintenance alternative. The Stockman team has extensive training in artificial turf installation and understands the numerous benefits that turf can provide in the Pittsburgh yard.

For homeowners who want to skip the mud and muddy paws after every rainstorm, artificial turf offers a clean alternative. It helps you enjoy your yard at any time of the year without getting dirty.

Artificial turf can be used for various reasons:

Keeping pets clean – Turf can let pets enjoy the outdoors without bringing in dirt, and you’ll find many pet-friendly parks that use artificial turf
Eliminating grass cutting – Using artificial turf means you don’t have to cut your grass weekly which can be helpful for individuals who are unable to mow their lawn consistently
Boosting aesthetics – You’ll have increased confidence that your lawn is looking fresh and green any time of year
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Pittsburgh’s Hilly Terrain Matters
Installing artificial turf can be challenging in the area of Pittsburgh due to the hilly terrain. The Stockman team is extremely experienced and has extensive hands-on training, so we can provide artificial turf installation that is functional for your yard – giving you a long-term solution you can rely on.

Contact the Stockman Team Today

Have any questions about seeding or artificial turf? Not sure which would be the best for your yard? Feel free to reach out to our team today, and we’d be happy to walk through the best options in a free consultation. 

💡 Key Takeaway
Every Pittsburgh property is different. With 30 years of local experience, the Stockman Lawnscape team will help you choose the right lawn solution – natural or artificial – for your lifestyle, yard, and goals.