5 Ways to Stop Weeds Growing Through Artificial Grass

So, you’ve got your artificial grass down – it looks good, saves time, and cuts out the mower. But then, out of nowhere, a rogue weed pops up. Frustrating, right? Weeds in artificial grass aren’t just a visual nuisance – they mess with the whole low-maintenance appeal that probably sold you on it in the first place.

What’s tricky is that these little green invaders usually sneak in from the sides or push up through gaps in the base layer. The good news? Stopping them is actually pretty straightforward. A bit of smart prep, a few habits, and knowing what to look out for can make all the difference.

So, if you’re keen to prevent weeds in artificial grass without endless weeding, here’s how to keep things tidy, green, and stress-free.

Use a Weed Membrane Underlay

One of the best ways to stop weeds in artificial grass before they ever start is by laying down a proper artificial grass weed membrane. Think of it as a quiet little hero sitting beneath the surface – it blocks sunlight and stops weed seeds from sprouting up through your turf.

Not all membranes are created equal, though. Some are thin enough to tear with a tug, and that’s not what you want. Go for something a bit thicker and UV-stable – it tends to last longer and copes better with the ups and downs of garden life.

Installation matters too. That membrane needs to be laid flat, with the overlaps nice and snug (about 100mm works well), and ideally pinned down to stop anything sneaking through the gaps later.

This layer doesn’t just deal with weeds either – it helps keep the base more stable, which makes artificial grass maintenance a bit easier in the long run. So really, it's doing double duty under there. Skipping this step? That’s how the green stuff finds its way back in.

Regularly Brush and Maintain the Surface

Alright, so you’ve got the underlay sorted. But weeds can still cause bother from above, especially if seeds land and settle in the top layer. That’s where artificial grass maintenance comes into play – and regular brushing is a big part of it.

We’re not talking daily chores here. Once every week or two is usually enough, depending on the season and how leafy your garden gets. The idea is to stop debris and seeds from building up – because once they settle, they’ve got a better chance of growing roots, even on artificial turf.

Use a stiff brush – or better yet, a power brush if you’ve got a larger area. Go against the grain of the grass to fluff it back up and sweep away anything unwanted. It keeps the fibres looking fresh too, which is a nice bonus.

In short: no brushing = more weeds. A quick sweep now and then? That’s the sort of effort that saves hours down the line.

Apply a Safe Weed Killer

Now and then, a few persistent weeds might still pop up – especially around the edges or in areas where debris has built up. That’s where a weed killer for artificial grass can come in handy. The trick? Use the right one, and apply it the right way.

Look for something labelled as pet-safe and non-corrosive – ideally a glyphosate-free option. These are less harsh on the environment and won’t mess with the turf backing or discolour the blades. It’s best to avoid strong chemical sprays that could seep down and interfere with the underlay.

Spray directly onto visible weeds, focusing on trouble spots like seams and edges. Do it on a dry day, with no rain in the forecast, so it has time to work its magic. You don’t need to go wild – a light, targeted spray is usually enough.

A quick note: don’t use it as a blanket solution. This is more of a clean-up job than a preventative fix. Keep it for when brushing and barriers haven’t quite done the trick.

Seal the Edges Properly

So, here’s the thing – most weeds don’t magically grow up through the middle of your grass. They sneak in from the sides. That’s why sealing artificial grass edges really matters. If there are gaps around the perimeter, weeds see that as an open invitation.

During installation, edging should be tight and flush. Any space between the grass and surrounding hardscape – like paving or decking – is where roots and seeds can squeeze in. To keep them out, you’ll want to properly secure the edges with the right kit.

Here’s what tends to work best:

• Adhesive tape or glue along the border joins

• Steel or composite edging strips to lock everything in place

• U-pins or turf pegs hammered in every 30–50cm

• Finishing with kiln-dried sand to close up any small spaces

It’s a bit of extra effort upfront, but it seriously helps to prevent weeds in artificial grass later on.

Address Weed Growth Immediately

Even with the best prep, the odd weed might still try its luck. When it does, the key is simple: act fast. The longer it sticks around, the more likely it is to spread or push deeper into weak spots. Quick weed removal from artificial grass keeps things neat and stops the problem from escalating.

If it’s a loose weed sitting on top, you can usually pull it by hand. Just make sure the root hasn’t crept into any joins. If it’s wedged in or already sprouting through, a quick spray with a weed killer for artificial grass should sort it – just like we covered earlier.

And whatever you do, don’t ignore it. Leaving even one little weed to settle in can undo all your hard work. It’s a bit like spotting a leak – catch it early, and it stays small.

So, there you have it – five simple ways to stop weeds in artificial grass from taking over your outdoor space. It’s not about big, time-consuming jobs. It’s about smart prep, regular upkeep, and acting quickly when something pops up.

With a proper artificial grass weed membrane, a decent brushing routine, the right weed killer, sealed edges, and quick action, your grass stays exactly how you want it: tidy, green, and low-fuss.

Want gear that does the job right from the start? Have a look at Tuda Grass’s product range – built to last and easy to live with.