A growing number of homeowners are transforming their yards to include alternatives to the conventional, green lawns that have dominated American yards for generations. They’re replacing grass turf with native plants, decorative rocks and gravel, mulch or more low-maintenance options.
They’re also removing portions of their yards and installing flagstone stepping stones or other water-saving solutions. Some are taking advantage of rebates offered by water agencies to convert their turf-heavy landscapes.
It’s easy to install a new artificial grass system that requires less water and fewer maintenance tasks than natural lawns. Professional installers know which types of turf are best for specific environments.
You will save time and money – especially in drought-stricken regions like California. You’ll have more free time to enjoy your yard and spend more time with friends and family.
When a turf-grass lawn is properly maintained, it stores excess nutrients and filters water. It also helps protect nearby water bodies and wildlife.
That’s not to mention it doesn’t require fertilizers or pesticides, which can also be harmful.
In addition, the clippings that come off a lawn can be used as a natural source of fertilizer for the soil, making it easier to reduce the amount of commercial fertilizers needed by your property.
Another benefit of a well-maintained, healthy turf lawn is that it’s an excellent source of pollinator habitat for birds, butterflies and other insects. Pollinators are a crucial part of our food chain, and up to 40 percent of them are threatened by habitat loss, according to Bee City USA co-ordinator Laura Rost.
You can create a more sustainable yard by choosing native plants, shrubs and trees that provide a host of benefits to wildlife. These plants are not only more drought-tolerant than conventional grasses, but they can also provide important habitat for animals such as salamanders and hummingbirds.
They are also more resilient to disease and insect pressure than conventional grasses, and they can be planted in areas that are shaded during the hotter summer months.
As long as you maintain proper mowing heights, your lawn will be more resilient to heat and drought. You’ll also be able to get more use out of it by cutting back on the frequency of mowing.
The evaporation rate of grass is much lower than that of other plantings, so it’s better to water during the cooler morning hours instead of in the afternoon when temperatures are higher. This will prevent water from being lost to evaporation.
One of the most significant ways that lawns waste water is through evaporation. When water is constantly escaping from a wet lawn, it doesn’t have the oxygen it needs to thrive, which can lead to diseases and turfgrass problems.
To combat this issue, it’s a good idea to water lawns less often, and to water early in the morning when there is less wind to improve sprinkler coverage. Additionally, allowing the grass blades to dry in the late afternoon can help reduce the risk of fungus.
Transform Your Outdoor Space With Professional Turf Installation
Achieving a Low-Maintenance, Lush Lawn with Turf Installation