Australian Astroturf–A hearty ground cover for a garden railroad

One of the unique pleasures garden railroaders have that their other-scaled model railroading brethren don’t is landscaping with live plants. Live greenery is an integral part of most outdoor railways. It’s common practice to use plant species that extend the believability and realism of miniature railroads—to create the essence of a life-like railroad in a natural setting.

One plant that stands out for blending in is Scleranthus biflorus, commonly known as “Australian Astroturf”.

Better than moss

Though moss-like in appearance, this evergreen flourishes where mosses tend to wither. Australian Astroturf is part of the Caryophyllaceae family. It is a slow-growth perennial that is suitable for use in sunny areas as compared to mosses which need shady environments.

Garden railroaders in warmer climates know that modeling a pasture, grassy field or lawn with moss is likely a short-lived experiment. Australian Astroturf, also know as Canberra Grass and Two-flowered Knawel, lives in full to part sun and needs minimal water. Soil type doesn’t seem to be an issue, however it should provide good drainage.

As the plant matures it can be expected to spread in a mat-like formation to a size of 15 to 24 inches across while maintaining a height of 1 inch or so. It tends to fill in crevices and cling to rock formations, so maintenance and proper trimming is the key to developing this plant into the desired look. Once established, Australian Astroturf can be divided and replanted. It can also be produced from seed.

Australian Astroturf is a highly flexible option for many garden railroads. Consider it another tool in the ongoing challenge of realistic modeling in Mother Nature’s backyard.

How to Build a Garden Railroad: Planning

Simple is Best

One of the biggest challenges for beginners is creating a goal that is attainable. It is very easy to over-plan. Lofty ambitions can lead to abandoned projects with wasted time and money. The best way to begin garden railroading is to start with a simple layout. Don't be concerned with a grand plan at this point. A garden railroad is never really finished; they continue grow and mature with time. A basic layout is just a starting point. Over time the railroad will evolve and there will be plenty of opportunity to develop something awe-inspiring.

How To Start

Many hobby shops and online stores have complete G scale train sets for beginners. This would be an ideal way to start for someone who doesn't have the trains, track or a transformer. These train sets should have everything you need to get started.

Find a suitable outdoor location that is close to a 110 volt electrical outlet. In a typical suburban setting, this might be an area near a garage or workshop. In any case, you will need electricity to run the train. Electrical extension cords rated for outdoor use are a perfect first step.

A basic garden railroad can be a temporary setup laid out on a lawn. This is a great way to begin enjoying your train immediately. Many people find this a great way to experience garden trains without the commitment involved in creating a dedicated area for a railroad. Just put the layout together whenever you feel the urge to run your railroad.

Whether your plans are for a temporary setup or a full-fledged garden railroad experience, the land you use plays a big part in the successful operation of your trains.

Look for level ground to use so that your locomotives will be able to easily run on the tracks. Land that has hills or other obstacles undoubtedly adds drama to your railroad setting (more on that later), but it will cause problems for you initially.

Hello, Garden Railroading!

My web design and development background has had many new beginnings and facets since I began coding back in 2003. Each new period of time was marked by simple yet powerful successes that led to a deeper understanding of my work. Each win was essentially a "Hello, World!" experience that proved that I could do accomplish something special.

Garden railroading has been an interest of mine since I dug my first trench in our family backyard. I've had ups and downs with it, and honestly, have lost my way at times. I don't feel right calling it a passion anymore. I haven't been driven to do anything with the project for a while. Other things have come up and my interest has waned. What I must do is rekindle the fire that led me to bulldoze the backyard and spend thousands on model trains. I know the payoff and the pleasure are there if I'm willing to work for it.

My journey begins here. So, "Hello, Garden Railroading!".