How to Design a Three-Hole Practice Green
A three-hole practice green gives you a small-space-friendly way to sharpen your short game without dominating your backyard. This guide walks you through a smart layout, easy pin placement ideas, which synthetic turf types work best for a backyard putting green setup, and short training routines. Sprinkle in a touch of creativity and a consistent practice routine, and you’ll be getting more confident strokes in no time.
GREEN SIZE, SHAPE & YARD FIT
Start by finding a flat or softly sloping spot that doesn’t conflict with walkways or landscaping. A typical three-hole green can fit in 300–700 sq. ft., depending on how much hole-to-hole distance you prefer. Think of three areas that create interesting angles: a straight short-distance putt, a mid-length shot across a subtle slope, and a long putt with noticeable break.
If you choose a full synthetic grass installation, pick a spot with good sun exposure and consider how the water will drain there. Proper base work keeps the surface uniform and helps the turf mimic true putting conditions. If you’re short on space, offset the holes so each one feels unique without needing much extra material.
LAYOUT TIPS FOR BETTER PRACTICE
Vary distances: aim for one short-range hole (6–10 ft.), one mid-range hole (12–18 ft.), and one long-range hole (20–35 ft.). That range requires different putting speeds and precision.
Use subtle contours: small elevations or gentle low spots add variety without requiring major grading.
Create approach area options: include a small chipping area beside one hole so you can practice pitch-and-putt sequences.
Edge details: a low-profile roll-up edge or sand trap adds extra difficulty and clean edges.
Throughout the layout process, mention your installation preference — whether you want a full synthetic turf base or a hybrid renovation — because different turf products perform differently depending on prep work.
PIN PLACEMENT THAT KEEPS PRACTICE FRESH
Move your pin locations each session. Move pins to the front, middle, and back to create new read lines. A simple system: ABC pin rotation where A = front, B = mid-green, C = rear. For extra challenge, place a temporary pin on the edge of a subtle slope to strengthen break and pace judgment.
Use removable cups or movable pin sets so you can change locations without damaging the turf. Changing pins on synthetic turf putting greens is simple and lets you recreate tournament diversity in a Toronto backyard setting.
SHORT PRACTICE ROUTINES FOR BUSY LIVES
No need for hour-long sessions. Try three simple drills that work with this three-hole layout:
Speed Ladder (6–12 minutes): Start at the short hole and putt three balls from each spot—short, mid, long—focusing on a repeatable putting stroke for each distance.
Break Read Drill (8–12 minutes): From a fixed spot, putt to each of the three holes with the pin in a new position. Work on reading the slope and modifying your stroke pace.
Pressure Finish (5–8 minutes): Make two-putt rounds around the three holes. If you two-putt all three, reward yourself with a harder approach next round.
Short routines like these keep progress steady and make practice repeatable. Mix them throughout the week for well-rounded improvement.