By Kelli Rosen

Turn those bogeys into birdies with your very own backyard putting green. Synthetic turf and fringe grass, made of low-maintenance polypropylene and nylon, are a maintenance-free alternative to the real thing. These golfing terrains from South Florida Putting Greens and Outdoor Concepts are situated near a community lake in Parkland  (top right) and waterfront in Pompano Beach, Florida (bottom right), where the Atlantic Ocean is the ideal backdrop.

Depending on budgetary constraints, the greens range from 300 to 4,000 square feet, and can cost up to $40,000. Amenities include sand traps, pitching stations, ball washers and custom flags. “Water runs right through the turf,” says Mark Harding, vice-president of the Pompano Beach-based company, “so there is no need to install any special drainage devices.” And you don’t have to be training for a spot on the PGA tour to warrant a backyard green. Deerfield Beach, Florida, homeowner E.J. Noah and his wife Julie, whose home is situated on a canal just off the Intracoastal Waterway, installed a golfing practice area (inset) for their five-year-old daughter Emily. For more information, visit www.southfloridaputtinggreens.com, or call (954) 788-4376.