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| Welcome to our tree column, “Ask your local arborist.” Each month, arborists from the Davey Tree Expert Company in Menlo Park discuss a tree-related topic from general care and planting tips to how trees can impact your property. If you have a tree-related question or an idea for a topic to discuss, email lifestyle@embarcaderopublishing.com or post in the comments section at the end of this column. |
Artificial turf has been in the headlines in recent weeks as local jurisdictions weigh whether to restrict its use due to potential health and environmental risks associated with the plastic from which it’s made.
In January, the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors failed to gain consensus on a plan to ban new synthetic fields on county property, but the topic is expected to come back for further consideration. In Palo Alto, the city council is undergoing its own research on the impacts of turf over the next six months. In San Mateo County, Millbrae prohibited the installation of fake lawns in 2024, and it seems likely that other cities could follow suit.
This had led to increased inquiries from residents about the risks of fake lawns and what to do if they have one in their own yards.
While it’s understandable why artificial turf’s durability and reduced maintenance and water usage have made it a popular alternative to natural grass, it’s essential to consider the potential health and safety implications for not just residents using the turf, but also for the nearby trees. Luckily, there are things that homeowners can do to combat the effects of artificial turf.
Just like any landscape alteration, artificial turf can have an effect on nearby trees. Proper planning and tree care can help mitigate potential stress factors and support a balanced landscape.
When installed too close to a tree, artificial turf can impact the tree’s health by slowing growth and causing leaf discoloration. It’s important to keep the turf as far from the tree’s trunk as possible and be cautious of the tree’s roots so they aren’t damaged. If turf is installed near trees or the roots were damaged, there are things that can be done to better support these trees to keep them healthy.
Here are some things to consider if you have artificial turf in your yard:
Proper watering
The denseness of the turf can alter the natural water infiltration patterns, ultimately reducing the amount of water available to the tree’s roots. Deep, consistent watering encourages deep root growth, making trees more stable and improves the tree’s stress tolerance. Proper watering also can help to regulate the higher temperatures that come from artificial turf.
Fertilizing
Without natural grass and organic matter decomposing, the soil under artificial turf may lack essential nutrients. Trees rely on healthy soil to support their root systems, which in turn provide stability and essential nutrients. Fertilization replenishes those essential nutrients and helps the roots access adequate nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium for strong foliage, root health and disease resistance.
Professional support
If planning to install artificial turf, reach out to a certified arborist who can offer advice prior to installation on how to keep trees safe. A certified arborist also can provide support after installation to ensure trees on the property stay healthy. An arborist can help determine what trees might benefit from more water or fertilization either before or after installation.
George Reno is a local arborist at The Davey Tree Expert Company in Menlo Park, which serves communities on the Peninsula, including Menlo Park, Atherton, Palo Alto and Redwood City. Reno can be reached at 866-923-5658.
