Outdoor & Patio

Putting Green

A putting green is a specially prepared area of closely mown grass or synthetic turf designed for practicing the short game of golf, installed as a recreational landscape feature in a residential backyard. The concept of private putting greens traces back to the grand estates of golf-obsessed British and American homeowners in the early 20th century, where natural grass greens were maintained by dedicated groundskeepers. Today, advances in synthetic turf technology have made realistic, low-maintenance putting greens accessible to homeowners at a wide range of price points. Modern residential putting greens can be constructed from natural bentgrass or bermudagrass for the most authentic experience, or from high-quality synthetic turf that mimics the speed and feel of a real green without the intensive maintenance requirements of mowing, fertilizing, and irrigation. Synthetic greens are the overwhelmingly popular choice for residential installations, as they maintain a consistent playing surface year-round with virtually no maintenance. Design options include custom shapes to fit any yard configuration, multiple holes with varying distances, contoured slopes and undulations for challenging putts, and fringe areas for chipping practice. A well-designed putting green adds both recreational value and visual interest to a landscape.

Key Characteristics

  • Smooth, closely cropped surface for putting practice
  • Custom-shaped to fit available yard space
  • Includes multiple cup positions at varying distances
  • Incorporates slopes and undulations for realistic play
  • Available in natural grass or synthetic turf options
  • Low-maintenance recreational landscape feature

Types & Variations

Flat practice green with multiple holes
Contoured green with slopes and undulations
Green with fringe area for chipping practice
Island green surrounded by sand bunker
Multi-use green integrated into lawn landscape

Common Materials

Synthetic putting turfCrushed stone baseSilica sand infillRubber crumb infillFringe turfLandscape edging

Placement & Usage Tips

Choose a relatively flat area of the yard that receives good drainage, as standing water will damage both natural and synthetic greens. Integrate the putting green naturally into the landscape with organic curved edges rather than harsh geometric shapes. Surround the green with ornamental grasses, low shrubs, or a fringe turf border that creates a gradual transition to the lawn.

💡 Pro Tip

Specify a turf with a nap speed rating between 10 and 12 on the Stimpmeter for the most realistic residential putting experience. Slower greens feel mushy and unrealistic, while faster tournament-speed greens are frustratingly difficult for casual play. Also, install at least one cup position near a slight slope so you can practice the most common and challenging putt type you will encounter on an actual golf course.