Will organic infill mold or attract pests?

How organic infill behaves

Quality organic infills such as cork, coconut fiber blends, and walnut shell are low nutrient, quick drying materials. They do not provide a food source for insects and, when dry, are inhospitable to mold. In a properly built turf system, water sheds through the backing and base, air moves through the pile, and the infill returns to a dry, stable state.

• Low nutrient value means no incentive for pests to feed or nest.
• Open pile and textured thatch promote airflow for fast drying.
• Sunlight and routine grooming disrupt any biological growth cycle.

When issues can occur

Problems are almost always system or maintenance related, not the infill itself. Watch for these conditions and correct them early.

• Standing water from poor base drainage or trapped low spots.
• Compacted or overfilled infill that blocks airflow between fibers.
• Dense shade with limited air movement, especially in enclosed courtyards.
• Debris buildup such as leaves or thatch mats that hold moisture.
• Constant irrigation overspray or daily misting that keeps the surface wet.

Design specifications that prevent moisture problems

Base and drainage

• Install 4 to 6 inches of compacted, open graded or well draining aggregate over stable subgrade.
• Maintain surface slope of 1 to 2 percent to a drain or daylight.
• Use perimeter drains or weep systems where natural runoff is limited.
• Target a system that rapidly evacuates rain so the surface dries the same day in normal weather.

Turf and infill selection

• Choose perforated backing for vertical drainage and a thatch layer that helps suspend infill.
• Use proven organic infills: cork, coconut blends, or walnut shell from reputable suppliers.
• Load infill to the manufacturer spec. Typical landscape range is about 1.5 to 3.0 pounds per square foot, sports fields higher based on system design.
• Top off infill as fibers settle to keep airflow paths open.

Sun and airflow

• Prune vegetation to increase light and air movement. Aim for several hours of sun where possible.
• Avoid solid fences or walls that block cross ventilation without adding vent gaps.

Maintenance that keeps organic infill dry and clean

Weekly to monthly

• Remove leaves and organic debris before they mat.
• Lightly broom or rake to lift fibers, loosen the surface, and restore airflow.
• Rinse only as needed to remove dust or pet residues. Do not keep the surface constantly wet.

Seasonal

• Power broom or deep groom to decompact infill and break up any crusting.
• Inspect edges and seams for tight fit that does not trap water.
• Top off infill to the specified level if settlement is observed.

After heavy weather

• Let the surface drain, then broom to stand fibers and speed drying.
• Check for new low spots and correct with base repair if needed.

Pets and playgrounds

Organic infills pair well with pet and play systems because they reduce surface heat and stay comfortable underfoot. For pet areas, prioritize drainage and sanitation.

• Spot clean solids promptly and rinse urine zones as needed in hot months.
• Use enzyme or turf safe cleaners approved by the turf manufacturer.
• Combine with a drainage pad or additional base depth for heavy use kennels.

Quick troubleshooting checklist

• See discoloration, slime, or musty odor: clear debris, groom to open the pile, and let the surface fully dry.
• Persistent dampness: evaluate slope and base drainage, then remediate low spots or add drains.
• Shady, enclosed area: increase airflow by pruning, adding vent gaps, or scheduling more frequent grooming.
• Use only manufacturer approved antimicrobial or enzyme cleaners if a treatment is needed.
• If issues persist, contact a FusionTurf dealer for a site specific plan.

When to choose an alternative infill

If the site will remain shaded and enclosed most of the day, or if irrigation overspray is unavoidable, consider a non absorbent infill such as coated sand or TPE that sheds water quickly. The turf system remains fully artificial and low maintenance while matching site realities.

Key specs at a glance

• Base: 4 to 6 inches compacted, well draining aggregate with 1 to 2 percent surface slope.
• Turf: perforated backing with thatch for airflow and infill suspension.
• Infill: organic cork, coconut blend, or walnut shell loaded to system spec and maintained at level.
• Care: debris removal as needed, light brooming monthly, deep groom seasonally, top offs when required.

Get site specific guidance

Every site is different. Share your shade, drainage, and usage details, and a FusionTurf dealer will specify the right infill and maintenance plan so your surface stays clean, dry, and worry free.