Nursery King owner shares dos and don'ts of synthetic lawns

Amber Hardin
Today, 12:55 AM

As more Northern Nevada homeowners consider replacing traditional lawns with synthetic turf, one local business owner is encouraging residents to look beyond the grass itself and pay close attention to its installation.

Kelly Brye, owner of Nursery King & Gifts LLC in Fernley, recently shared tips on selecting and installing synthetic turf, noting that proper preparation beneath the surface is one of the biggest factors in how long an artificial lawn will last.

According to Brye, a quality installation begins with excavating several inches of existing soil before adding compacted base rock and decomposed granite to create a stable, well-draining foundation. Skipping those steps, he said, can lead to poor drainage, uneven settling, and premature deterioration of the turf.

Brye also encouraged homeowners to consider the quality of the turf itself. Higher face-weight products generally contain more fibers, making them softer underfoot and more durable over time, though they typically come at a higher cost.

Another common mistake, he said, is improper seaming. Because synthetic turf is manufactured in wide rolls with the fibers running in a single direction, sections must be installed consistently. Rotating one piece can create noticeable color differences, even when the material is identical. Factory edges should also be trimmed before joining sections to produce cleaner seams.

For pet owners, Brye said specialized infill products can help reduce odors, while cooling infills are available for homeowners concerned about hot summer temperatures. Regular brushing with a power broom helps keep the blades standing upright and redistributes the infill for a more natural appearance.

Nursery King & Gifts carries a variety of synthetic turf products for residential landscaping, pet areas, and backyard putting greens. Brye said the business also continues to offer natural sod options for homeowners who prefer living grass.

For more information on installation or product advice, contact Nursery King & Gifts LLC at (775) 835-4095 or visit the business at 785 U.S. Highway 95A South in Fernley. Regular product and educational updates are also posted on the company's Facebook page.