If you live in the drought stricken state of California with us, you know that artificial turf is gaining popularity. Today’s fake grasses are really good looking. They contain many realistic looking qualities such as:
* Thatch
*Irregular blades and uneven heights
*Natural coloring
They have open web drainage and resist fading and UV damage. The heat they produce and hold used to be a big concern, but the newest ones are even boasting a heat resistant backing. In Cali, or other hot places, the biggest selling points these days are water conservation, money savings on landscaping and ease of care in the brutal heat. Some municipalities are even giving rebates to homeowners right now if they swap out their water hungry lawns for drought friendly coverings such as succulents, ground cover or artificial turf.
Well…up until a few months ago, I was such an opponent of fake grass. It just never looked or felt real enough for this Midwestern girl who grew up with a big yard of lush, soft, cool, pretty grass. But a few months ago, everyone on my street seemed to begin to replace their front lawns (down by the curbs in particular) with artificial grass. Like…at the same time. It’s like they talked about it – and left me out of the loop. Or…I’ve just been way too busy at work to notice until everyone had done it but me. Hhhmm. Note to self. Anyway, as I walked the dog by (and on) them each and everyday in suspicion that surely SHE would be able to tell the difference…I was quickly proven wrong. For the most part, everyone is choosing great looking varieties and neither I nor the dog have been able to tell the fake from the real without examination!
Long story short…I’m going for it. I’m not a copycat. But the decision is final, my new backyard will not be real grass. California drought I am doing my part. In the next couple of weeks I will be getting lots of samples from my builders to try out. I’ll let you know my results!
edit. your. life. 