Is the Grass Greener When It’s Not Real?

Posted on October 24, 2008 by Joyce Benson   Add a Comment |
Tag(s): Events, Going Green, Kitchens And Baths, The Great Green Outdoors

I first learned of this innovative product while watching ‘Living With Ed’ on the Planet Green network. Ed and Rochelle improved their backyard with an artificial grass product that requires no mowing (and no related emissions), no watering, no weeding, and no fertilizing. This product is ideal for areas where water is scarce or where homeowners prefer a perfect-looking lawn without the hassle of maintaining it.

Artificial Grass and Landscaping (AGL) did the install at the Begley residence. The company offers a two-tone polyethelene fiber artificial grass that is lead-free, non-porous, stain resistant, and even fire resistant. It will not discolor or fade due to exposure to the sun’s UV rays. It won’t decay, and it can be easily cleaned of leaves and debris. The turf is first laid down almost like wall-to-wall carpeting, then an infill system made from recycled rubber granules is spread out over the turf to add to its durability and to keep the blades of ‘grass’ standing up. It is suitable for both residential and commerical applications and price of install runs from $8 to $15 per square foot and includes an 8-year warranty. If you ever tire of looking at a perfectly green lawn, this product is 100% recyclable. My only problem with this is that the ‘grass’ or its backing is not made from recycled content.

Another company, the Arizona Luxury Lawns & Greens, offers a similar product that looks and feels like natural grass, but the backing incorporates recycled content, as well as soy-based polymers. Near the end of this product’s lifecycle (20-25 years), the backing will actually break down. This product has many perforated holes in the backing to allow for drainage of water. Prices start at $5.95 per sq ft installed and carries a 10-year warranty.

Personally, I don’t understand this country’s obsession with expansive, flawless green lawns. I think there are more suitable alternatives, like landscaping with native grasses and plants and xeriscaping, especially in the desert and in drought-prone areas, but to each his own.

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