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RE-THINKING YOUR LAWN?

By: Tracey Liao Van Hooser   |   November 18, 2021

The drought has many of us searching for ways to reduce our water usage. Turning off irrigation to the lawn is a great first step. Here are some ideas if you are wondering what to do next with your lawn. (Spoiler alert: artificial grass is NOT the answer!)

 

Dead or Dormant?

Let’s start with some good news: your brown lawn may not be dead, only dormant! To determine if your lawn is dead or dormant, tug on a handful of grass. If it comes out easily, it is likely dead. If the roots hold fast, your lawn may recover when it rains or you resume irrigation.

 

Reducing the Size of Your Lawn

Either way, it’s smart to be re-thinking your lawn. Not only do lawns use a lot of water, but they require a lot of maintenance. Consider whether your family actively uses all of the lawn space you currently have. Perhaps you can shrink or even eliminate your lawn! Not only will you save yourself time but you may reduce your family’s exposure to pollution and chemicals.

 

Air Pollution from Lawn Equipment

Did you know that gas-powered mowers, edgers, and leaf blowers are a major source of pollution? Switch to rechargeable electric versions instead. Does your gardener mow and blow for you? Ask what equipment they use. California has passed a new law that bans these small off-road gas engines effective July 1, 2022.

 

Water Pollution from Lawn Fertilizers

Lawn maintenance also typically involves the use of chemicals. Run-off from nitrogen-heavy fertilizers can contribute to water pollution. Use slow-release organic fertilizers instead and consider grasscycling if you have a mulching mower. Avoid “weed and feed” products, which may damage or kill nearby plants and trees while being ineffective against the specific weeds you have. Plus, weed killer is poison. Do you really want poison where your kids and pets play? There are better ways to manage weeds.

 

How To Remove Lawn

If you’ve decided you can eliminate a section of your lawn, there are a variety of ways to do it. The best way is called sheet mulching; here are the pros and cons of a few other methods. You may be able to take advantage of rebates and even have sheet mulching done for you - for free!

 

What To Plant Instead?

If the area will be walked on, consider these varieties of grass for a more traditional look or consider these beautiful alternatives. Research thoroughly to ensure your selection will meet your specific needs (water, light, maintenance, foot traffic, etc).

 

Or you can simply mulch over the area and add plants if you like. When planting, be sure to avoid invasives. We recommend choosing native plants as they are most likely to thrive - and they protect Marin’s biodiversity. This tool will provide a list of plants native to your zip code. 

 

Artificial Grass is Not the Answer

Many people are installing artificial grass and we can see the appeal: no mowing, no fertilizing, no irrigation. Despite these benefits, artificial grass is definitely not an environmentally-sound choice. All of that plastic will end up in a landfill in only about 10-15 years. And artificial grass is not as maintenance-free as it may seem. Weeds can grow in the turf and must be removed. Spills and dog waste must be cleaned thoroughly to avoid an unsanitary (and smelly!) situation. Debris must be removed and the turf must be brushed on a regular basis or the lifespan of the turf will be shortened. You must also be careful not to rip or puncture the turf with lawn furniture, sports equipment, etc.

 

Artificial grass may also pose a health and environmental hazard. The individual blades and the turf backing have been found to contain PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals” because they never break down and thus accumulate in the environment and in our bodies. PFAS have been linked to many health risks, including cancer. PFAS in the environment can contaminate our water supply. A separate concern is that turf can get dangerously hot for pets or bare feet.

 

Re-Thinking Your Lawn Webinar

We are planning a webinar to answer all of your lawn questions! Sign up for our newsletter or follow us on Facebook or Instagram to get all of the details.

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