Artificial turf, also known as synthetic turf is a type of surface that resemble natural grass. It is used for arena sports, homeowners' lawns and commercial applications. Synthetic turf was created in 1960 by David Chaney, head of the RTP research team. It was popularized in 1965, when it was installed in the Houston Astrodome. Many people have grown to appreciate the reduced costs of maintaining artificial grass versus natural grass indoors.

Artificial turf is available in three types of materials: polyethylene, polypropylene and nylon. The type of material to use is determined by what it will be used for and what one can afford. Certain materials work better for different uses.

Polyethylene is very soft in texture, making it perfect for play areas. It can be cut to different heights, with three inches being the maximum height before it folds over on itself. It can mimic several types of synthetic grass, to include blue grass and fescue. When being used on golf courses, it doesn't work well for a putting green but makes great fringe grass.