Trimming Tips for Artificial Grass: Keep Your Lawn Looking Sharp
When you install artificial grass, a synthetic turf designed to mimic natural lawn without the watering, mowing, or fertilizing. Also known as synthetic turf, it’s built to last—but it still needs occasional trimming to look its best. Unlike real grass, artificial grass doesn’t grow, but the edges can fray, blades can shift, or stray weeds can creep in. That’s where proper trimming comes in. It’s not about cutting the turf itself—it’s about shaping it, cleaning it up, and keeping it sharp against borders, pathways, and flower beds.
Edging, the boundary between your artificial lawn and other surfaces like paving, gravel, or soil. Also known as lawn border, it’s the most common place where trimming matters. Over time, grass fibers near the edge can lift or curl outward, especially after weather changes or foot traffic. A quick trim with sharp shears or a utility knife keeps that line crisp. Don’t use lawnmowers or electric trimmers—they’re too aggressive and can damage the backing. Stick to hand tools. You’ll get more control and avoid pulling up the turf.
Sand infill, the granular material spread over artificial grass to weigh it down and help blades stand upright. Also known as turf infill, it plays a role in trimming too. Too much sand can hide the edge, making it hard to see where to cut. If you’ve added sand recently, wait a few days for it to settle before trimming. Otherwise, you might cut too short and expose the backing. And if sand has piled up along the edge, brush it back gently with a stiff broom before you trim. This keeps your cut clean and your turf looking professional.
Don’t forget about weeds, plants that grow through gaps in the turf or around the edges. Also known as intruding vegetation, they’re the main reason people think they need to trim their artificial grass more often. They don’t grow through the backing, but they push up through seams or where the turf meets the ground. Pull them out by hand when you can. If they’re stubborn, use a spot treatment with vinegar or a weed killer that’s safe for synthetic surfaces. Never spray herbicides directly on the grass—stick to the soil or stone around it.
Trimming isn’t a chore—it’s a quick maintenance step that makes your lawn look intentional, not installed. Do it once or twice a year, especially in spring and fall. Spring cleans up winter damage. Fall prepares for wet weather. If you live near trees, trim more often—fallen leaves and branches can push fibers out of place. Keep your tools clean and sharp. A dull blade will tug instead of cut, leaving ragged edges. And always trim on a dry day. Wet turf can stick to blades and make a mess.
You’ll find plenty of advice online about cutting artificial grass to fix bald spots or flatten matted blades. Don’t. That’s not trimming—that’s damaging it. If your grass looks flat, brush it with a stiff broom or use a power broom. If it’s worn out in spots, consider adding more infill or replacing the section. Real solutions, not quick hacks.
Below, you’ll find real posts from gardeners and landscapers who’ve dealt with these exact issues—how to handle overfilled sand, how to stop weeds from creeping in, and how to make your artificial lawn look like it was just installed, even after years of use. No fluff. Just what works.