You’ve probably seen artificial grass used in more places here in Arizona than you would elsewhere. In climates where irrigation is expensive and water bills are high, it just makes sense to use artificial grass wherever you can. Artificial turf on baseball, football and soccer fields have become standard nation-wide, and it’s great around pools, where foot traffic can really wear on grass and turn that expensive, well-manicured lawn into a muddy pit.
But one thing you may not have considered is using artificial grass for your front lawn. Most people here in Arizona are familiar with the concept of xeriscaping – landscaping for arid climates by selecting drought-tolerate plants and foliage that require very little water, also known as water-conserving landscaping. Some homeowners or landlords have even gone so far as to return their lawns to a desert landscape, using gravel, boulders, and cacti to spruce up their front yards instead of St. Augustine or Bermuda grass.
That can actually look pretty nice if done right (though there are plenty of examples of how bad it can look as well). But it doesn’t allow you as a homeowner to get much enjoyment out of the landscape around your home. Plus, there’s just something about the color green and the way it makes us feel. It’s a phenomenon that’s even been studied – just viewing pictures of nature like trees and grassy fields can reduce your stress levels.
While there haven’t been any studies specifically on artificial lawns, if a picture with some green in it can lower stress levels, a lawn you can walk around on can’t hurt. We know we appreciate a little green in our lives. But you be the judge: take a look at this front yard installation and tell me whether it makes you feel more at ease than a desert landscape. I think you’ll see what we’re talking about.
A great mixture of plants with artificial turf can create a welcome sight for sore eyes.
Another great thing this picture illustrates is the variety of options you have when it comes to integrating artificial grass with living plants and existing landscaping. When we say artificial grass in the front yard, the image most people are thinking of is a square patch with no interesting features at all, simply because they’re probably thinking about sports arenas. But it doesn’t have to be that way!
Here’s another great installation we’ve done on another front lawn. They chose to use artificial turf in combination with river rocks and landscaping boulders to add variety and fun to their landscape. Notice how the elevation makes the “river” really pop. The best thing about it? The water usage on this lawn has been reduced up to 70%. That’s great for both the environment and your pocketbook. Plus, our artificial grass is made from 100% recycled materials and LEED certified.
Unlike the lawn across the street, this one’s never going to brown.
Gone are the days of neon-green artificial lawns that looked fake, reflected light, and got too hot to enjoy in the summer heat. Today’s artificial grass is built for enjoyment (including pets) and lasts 10-15 years, with extremely low maintenance. It’s a smart choice for the eco-friendly, the budget-conscious, the elderly, the lazy, and the landscaping lover who just so happens to live in the desert.
So the next time you take a look at your water bill, or are out in the hot sun trimming the hedges and mowing the lawn and you wonder if there’s a better option, consider artificial grass for your front lawn. You’ll get all the water, time, and money-saving benefits of xeriscaping with the lush look of a green grassy landscape.
