How to Install a Putting Green with Artificial Turf: A Step-by-Step DIY Guide

Want a backyard putting green but don't want to pay $5,000+ for installation? Building your own with artificial turf is easier than you think. This guide walks you through the entire process — from planning to the final putt.

Step 1: Planning & Site Selection

Choose a spot with good drainage and decent sunlight. Minimum recommended size: 10ft wide x 25ft long. Mark the outline with spray paint or stakes, then walk around to see how it looks from different angles. Pro tip: plan for 2-3 cup positions to keep practice interesting.

Step 2: Gather Your Materials

Here’s everything you’ll need:

• Turf – Putting green specific artificial grass (pile height 10-16mm) or natural grass
• Base materials – Crushed stone / decomposed granite, coarse sand
• Tools – Shovel, rake, plate compactor, utility knife, tape measure, level
• Supplies – Weed barrier, seam tape, nails/staples, infill (silica sand)
• Accessories – Cup cutter, hole cups, flagsticks

💡 Not sure which turf to pick? Read our guide on choosing the right artificial grass

Step 3: Excavation & Base Preparation  

This is the most critical step. A bad base = a bad putt.

1. Dig down 4-5 inches (10-12cm), removing all grass, roots, and debris
2. Add 4-6 inches (100-150mm) of crushed stone – compact it to 90% density with a plate compactor
3. Add 0.8-1.2 inches (20-30mm) of coarse sand – level it, then compact again
4. Create a 1% slope for drainage
5. Lay weed barrier to prevent future growth

Step 4: Install the Putting Cups

1. Mark cup positions on the sand base
2. Use a hole cutter – cut 2 inches wider than the cup diameter
3. Place the cup, ensuring the rim is flush with the sand surface
4. Secure with quick-set concrete or crushed stone

Step 5: Roll Out & Cut the Turf

1. Unroll the turf and let it rest for at least 30 minutes to acclimate
2. If using multiple rolls, seam them before securing
3. Cut from the back with a utility knife – keep edges straight
4. For cups: cut an "X" shape, then trim into a clean circle around the cup

Step 6: Secure & Seam the Turf

1. Nail edges every 6-8 inches with galvanized nails or staples
2. For seams: align edges, place seam tape underneath (sticky side up), press firmly
3. Add extra nails along both sides of the seam

Step 7: Apply Infill & Brush

1. Spread silica sand evenly using a drop spreader (1-2 lbs per sq ft)
2. Brush with a power brush or stiff broom – work the sand down to the fiber roots
3. Lightly water to settle the sand and knock down dust
4. Goal: fibers standing upright, surface firm, ball rolls true

Step 8: Final Touches & Maintenance

• Install flagsticks
• Trim any rough edges
• Monthly: brush the turf to keep fibers upright
• Yearly: top up infill as needed
• Clear leaves and debris regularly