For some of us who love nature, our backyard is our comfort space and we love to enjoy spending our free time there. But do you know that you can transform your backyard into a fun space where you invite your friends to play golf? In this article we are going to tell you how you can install DIY putting green in your home and practice golf in your leisure time.
Putting green installation process
Plan first
The first and the most crucial step is to plan everything. Before starting with the installation process, analyse factors like the space, obstacles in path and measurements etc; Planning a layout ensures that you don’t encounter any problem while executing your vision and everything goes smoothly.
Choose the right location
Choosing the right location can be quite a tough task but it is very important. You need to ensure that the area where you are putting green receives proper sunlight during the day and that the drainage works well, in order to prevent the water from collecting over the green and ruining it. Also ensure that the space is convenient and that you can enjoy playing golf there.
Tools you need
Here’s a list of necessary materials and tools that you need to collect before starting the actual process:
- Artificial putting green turf (obviously)
- base material (preferably crushed stone or decomposed granite)
- landscape fabric
- bender board or timbers
- nails and screws
- compactor or roller
- shovel and rake
- sand
- golf hole cup and flag
- measuring tape and level
Start the installation process
Here is a detailed step by step guide on how to install putting green in your backyard easily:
- First step is to clean the area. Make sure there is no plant growth in that particular area and clear the area by getting rid of dirt and any other obstacles such as rocks. Once done with cleaning, excavate the soil around 4 inches deep into the ground.
- The next step is to prepare the base by compacting the soil. You can use a compact roller for this task and once properly compacted, add base material such as crushed stone or composed granite. These ensure a much more stable foundation. Make sure you compact after laying the base materials too.
- Now lay landscaping fabric on the base that you prepared. It helps in preventing the unwanted weed growth and also aids the drainage system.
- With the help of timbers and a bender board, shape the green and make sure you measure everything correctly. The layout adds a structure and improves the longevity of the turf.
- Over the landscaping fabric, add a layer of sand to achieve a smooth surface. This layer of sand is generally about 1 inch thick.
- Install artificial putting green turf over the surface. Make sure it is fit for the area that you prepared and you can trim it if there’s any excess turf. Once you have properly rolled it over the surface, secure it to the bender board with the help of screws so that it remains in its place.
- To achieve a more professional and finished look, you can add contours by adding sand and compacting in a few areas.
- Now install a golf hole cup in your preferred location and secure it properly, then add a flag to it.
- As the final step, brush the surface with a broomstick to make the surface smoother and achieve the perfect texture.
How to maintain it putting green?
- Brush the turf often.
- Clean the surface and remove dirt and debris regularly.
- Add sand to maintain the texture.
- Inspect the putting green for any damage and repair if needed.
FAQs
What if I have a small backyard and want to install putting green?
You can DIY putting green in a small backyard too! The best thing about it is that you can customise it according to the space available.
Can I let grass grow naturally instead of installing an artificial green turf?
Natural grass requires a lot of maintenance and takes up a lot of your time so it's best to install an artificial turf.
How long does it take to install a DIY putting green?
It generally depends upon the area you’re working on but it may take anywhere from a couple of days to a week.
How can I enhance the look of my putting green?
You can add rocks that match the aesthetic of your backyard or decorate it with plant pots too.
What if I want to change the location of my putting green once it has been installed?
Now that you have installed the putting green, you will need to disassemble and then reassemble everything from the ground.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |