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 taking over the entire yard. This guide covers a well-designed layout, easy pin placement ideas, which turf options work best for a backyard putting green setup, and short training routines. Sprinkle in a touch of creativity and a steady routine, and you’ll be sinking more reliable putts in no time.
GREEN SIZE, SHAPE & YARD FIT
Start by finding a flat or softly sloping spot that doesn’t disrupt common-use areas. A typical three-hole green can fit in 300–700 sq. ft., depending on how much spacing you want between the holes. Think of three zones that create interesting angles: a short straight 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 ample sunlight and consider how the runoff will drain there. Proper base work keeps the surface uniform and helps the turf perform like a real putting surface. If you’re working with limited space, alternate hole positions so each one feels distinct without needing much additional artificial grass.
LAYOUT TIPS THAT MAKE PRACTICE WORTHWHILE
Vary distances: aim for one short-range hole (6–10 ft.), one medium (12–18 ft.), and one long (20–35 ft.). That range forces different putting speeds and focus.
Use subtle contours: small bumps or gentle dips add variety without requiring major earthwork.
Create approach area options: include a small chipping zone beside one hole so you can practice pitch-and-putt shots.
Edge details: a low-profile roll-up edge or sand trap adds challenge and visual definition.
Throughout the layout process, mention your installation preference — whether you want a full synthetic turf base or a hybrid renovation — because turf varieties act differently depending on prep work.
PIN PLACEMENT IDEAS FOR VARIETY
Change pin locations regularly. Move pins to the front, middle, and back to create new read lines. A simple system: A-B-C rotation where A = front-third, B = center, C = rear. For extra challenge, place a temporary pin on the outer edge of a slight 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 easy and lets you mimic tournament diversity in a Phoenix backyard setting.
SHORT PRACTICE ROUTINES FOR BUSY LIVES
No need for extended training sessions. Try three simple drills that fit the three-hole layout:
Speed Ladder (6–12 minutes): Start at the short hole and putt three balls from each range—short, mid, long—focusing on a consistent stroke length for each distance.
Break Read Drill (8–12 minutes): From a set position, putt to each of the three holes with the pin in a different location. Work on reading the slope and adjusting pace.
Pressure Finish (5–8 minutes): Make two-putt rounds around the three holes. If you complete the circuit successfully, reward yourself with a tougher angle next round.
Short routines like these keep skills growing steadily and make practice habit-forming. Mix them over several days for full-scope training.