Ground cover is an important aspect of any backyard, especially when you have kids. Not only does it enhance the appearance of your outdoor space, but it also protects the soil and prevents erosion, reduces the amount of weeds, and provides a safe and comfortable surface for kids to play on.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), the most common backyard injuries for children are falls (31%), cuts and lacerations (26%), and bruises and abrasions (19%).
To prevent these types of injuries, it’s important to create a safe play area with proper surfaces, ground cover and precautions.
However, choosing the right ground cover can be overwhelming, as there are many options available, each with their own pros and cons. In this article, we will delve into the different types of kid-friendly ground cover options and discuss the factors you should consider when making a decision. We will also provide tips for maintaining your ground cover to ensure it stays safe and enjoyable for your kids.
Pros: Grass is a classic and popular choice for backyard ground cover. It has a natural look and feel that is comfortable to walk and play on, and it is relatively easy to maintain as long as it is watered and mowed regularly. Grass also helps to filter the air, reducing pollutants and improving the quality of the air in your backyard.
Cons: grass does require a fair amount of maintenance, including watering and mowing, which can be time-consuming and expensive. It is also prone to pests and diseases, which can be difficult to control and may require the use of chemicals.
Pros: Mulch is a type of ground cover made from organic materials, such as wood chips, bark, or straw. It is affordable and adds color and texture to your backyard. Mulch is also good for the soil, as it helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Cons: Mulch needs to be replenished regularly, as it decomposes over time. It can also attract pests, such as termites and ants, and may require the use of chemicals to control these pests.
Pros: Rubber mulch is made from recycled rubber tires and is a more durable option than traditional mulch. It is non-toxic and provides a soft, safe surface for kids to play on. Rubber mulch is also low maintenance, as it does not decompose and does not require watering or mowing.
Cons: Rubber mulch can be more expensive than traditional mulch, and it may not have the natural look and feel of other ground cover options.
Pros: Artificial turf is a synthetic grass-like material that is made from polyethylene or polypropylene. It is low maintenance and looks like real grass, but it does not require watering or mowing. Artificial turf is also durable and can withstand heavy use, making it a good choice for areas where kids play.
Cons: artificial turf may not feel as natural as real grass and may be more expensive to install. It may also require repairs if it is damaged or torn.
Pros: Pea gravel is a type of ground cover made from small, smooth stones. It is low maintenance and adds a natural look to your backyard. Pea gravel is also affordable and easy to install.
Cons: pea gravel may not be as comfortable to walk on as other ground cover options, and it can be difficult to maintain. It may also become dirty and require frequent cleaning.
Budget is an important factor to consider when choosing a ground cover for your backyard. Some options, such as grass and artificial turf, may be more expensive to install and maintain than others, such as mulch or pea gravel.
Different ground cover options have different maintenance requirements. Grass and artificial turf require regular watering and mowing, while mulch and rubber mulch need to be replenished regularly. Pea gravel may require more frequent cleaning to maintain its appearance. Consider your own time and resources when deciding on a ground cover, and choose one that fits your maintenance needs and capabilities.
Durability is also an important factor to consider, especially if you have kids who will be using the ground cover frequently. Grass and artificial turf may be more durable than mulch or pea gravel, which can decompose or become damaged over time. Rubber mulch is a durable option, but it may not have the natural look and feel of other ground cover options.
Safety is a top priority when choosing a ground cover for a backyard where kids will be playing. Grass and rubber mulch are both safe options, as they provide a soft and cushioned surface for kids to play on. Artificial turf and pea gravel may not be as soft and may not provide as much cushioning, so they may not be the best choice for areas where kids will be playing.
Finally, consider how the ground cover will fit in with the overall design and aesthetic of your backyard. Grass and artificial turf may be the most natural looking options, while mulch and pea gravel can add color and texture. Choose a ground cover that enhances the appearance of your backyard and fits in with your personal style.
Grass requires regular watering and mowing to stay healthy and attractive. Water your grass once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Mow your grass regularly, following the one-third rule: only cut off the top one-third of the grass blades at a time. This helps to prevent stress on the grass and promotes healthy growth.
Mulch decomposes over time and needs to be replenished regularly to maintain its appearance and effectiveness. Add a fresh layer of mulch every year or so, or as needed. Be sure to remove any weeds or debris from the area before adding new mulch.
Keep your ground cover clean and free of debris by regularly picking up any trash or debris that accumulates. This helps to maintain the appearance of your backyard and keeps it safe for kids to play on.
Artificial turf may become damaged or torn over time, especially if it is used frequently by kids. Regularly inspect your artificial turf for any damages or tears, and repair them as needed to keep it in good condition.
There are many kid-friendly ground cover options to choose from, each with their own pros and cons. Consider your budget, maintenance requirements, durability, and safety for kids when deciding on a ground cover for your backyard. Regular maintenance, such as watering and mowing (for grass), replenishing mulch, and cleaning up debris, will help to keep your ground cover looking great and safe for kids to play on. Do further research and consult with professionals to ensure you make the best decision for your backyard.
This form used in modal popup
