How to Swap Your Artificial Grass for a Real California Lawn
Artificial grass has earned wide-scale favor as a maintenance-free, water-saving solution for homeowners, particularly in drought-prone areas like California. While synthetic lawns eliminate the need for regular maintenance—mowing, watering, and fertilizing—they come with serious environmental and health concerns that are prompting many Californians to reconsider their choice. As awareness grows, more and more homeowners are ripping out their artificial lawns in favor of real grass, and lawn care experts are promoting bermudagrass, which benefits the environment and their health beyond aesthetics.
Key Takeaways
- While artificial grass is marketed as a maintenance-free, water-saving solution, it has significant environmental and health risks. These include exposure to harmful chemicals like PFAS, which are linked to serious health issues, and the contribution to urban heat and microplastic pollution, which harm ecosystems.
- California is shifting away from promoting artificial grass, with recent legislation allowing local governments to ban its use due to environmental concerns. This reflects a broader move towards sustainable landscaping practices, emphasizing the importance of natural lawns for environmental health and public safety.
- Properly removing artificial turf is crucial to minimize its environmental impact. This process involves careful cutting, lifting, and disposing of synthetic materials according to local regulations, followed by preparing the soil for new grass. Transitioning to a real grass lawn offers numerous benefits, including a healthier ecosystem and a safer, more comfortable outdoor space.
The Proliferation of Artificial Grass in California Lawns
For several years, artificial grass in California has been promoted as a fix to drought problems, making it an ideal option for homeowners looking to conserve water and reduce yard maintenance. The prolonged drought conditions and strict water restrictions in the state made synthetic turf an appealing alternative to natural lawns.
The promise of an everlasting green, low-maintenance yard year-round led to widespread adoption across residential areas, sports fields, and commercial spaces. However, as fake grass proliferated, so did concerns about its long-term environmental and health risks.
Studies Reveal Serious Health Risks with Artificial Grass
Despite its initial appeal, research has revealed several harmful effects of exposure to artificial grass.
Synthetic turf is made from various materials, some of which can release toxic chemicals over time. One key concern is the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are also called forever chemicals because they don’t break down in the environment. These chemicals are known to be carcinogenic and have been linked to many serious health issues, including hormonal disruptions.
The latex and other rubbers used in fake grass can also trigger allergic reactions. Phthalates often present in these synthetic materials can adversely affect the reproductive organs, lungs, kidneys, and liver. Over time, the crumb rubber, often used as infill, can degrade due to wear and tear, weather, and microbial activity, producing new chemicals that add further health risks.
In addition to the health risks, artificial grass contributes to the urban heat island effect by absorbing and retaining heat, which can increase temperatures in surrounding environments. The production and disposal of synthetic turf contribute to microplastic pollution, with tiny plastic particles eventually making their way into the oceans. These microplastics pose both physical and toxicological risks to marine life.
Today, what was once encouraged in California as a water-saving measure faces bans. In October last year, California Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill allowing local governments to ban fake grass for residential use due to environmental and health concerns. This new law marks a significant move, reversing a 2015 act that guaranteed homeowners the right to replace natural grass with fake turf amidst drought conditions. This legislation reflects the move towards more sustainable landscaping practices, reflecting a broader concern for environmental and public health.
How to Get Rid of Artificial Grass
Proper disposal of artificial grass is essential to reduce its environmental impact. Synthetic materials should be disposed of according to local regulations, and efforts should be made to recycle components where possible. This responsible approach ensures your transition to a natural lawn contributes positively to the environment instead of further adding to existing ecological problems.
Preparation: Gather the necessary tools, including a utility knife, shovel, and wheelbarrow. Plan for the proper disposal of the synthetic turf according to local regulations.
Cut and Lift the Turf: Cut the artificial grass into manageable sections, then carefully lift and roll up each section. Be mindful of the underlying soil to avoid damage.
Remove Infill Materials: Most artificial grass has infill materials, like sand or rubber granules; carefully collect and dispose of them properly. Look into recycling options for rubber infill in your area.
Repair and Prepare the Soil: After removing the fake grass, inspect the soil for damage or compaction. Aerate the soil and add organic matter to improve its structure and fertility. Level the area and address any low spots to improve drainage further. These efforts will prepare the ground for healthy grass growth.
Why Use Real Grass? The Benefits of a Natural Lawn
Transitioning to natural grass offers plenty of benefits that extend beyond aesthetics. Real grass absorbs carbon, reduces heat, and supports local biodiversity. Unlike artificial turf, a natural grass lawn contributes to a healthier ecosystem by supporting wildlife.
In addition to environmental advantages, natural grass offers significant health and aesthetic benefits. It does not emit harmful chemicals or trap heat, making it a safer and more comfortable surface for kids, pets, and outdoor activities. The beauty of a lush, green lawn adds value to your property, improving its appeal and providing a welcoming outdoor space for relaxation and recreation.
Switching to Bermudagrass: A Drought-Resistant, Low-Maintenance Solution
With growing concerns over water scarcity, especially in drought-prone areas like California, switching to Bermudagrass offers a practical solution for homeowners seeking resilient, low-maintenance lawns. Improved and hybrid varieties of Bermudagrass are specifically designed to withstand the challenges posed by prolonged dry conditions. This makes them more efficient with water use than traditional fescue varieties, which demand more frequent watering.
Bermudagrass thrives with less water and recovers quickly from wear and tear, making it an ideal option for lawns that endure heavy foot traffic. Its deep root system helps the grass survive periods of drought by accessing moisture further in the soil, keeping your lawn lush and green for longer. Additionally, it requires less maintenance than fescue, meaning you spend less time and resources on watering, mowing, and care, while still enjoying a durable and beautiful landscape year-round. By transitioning to bermudagrass, you can achieve a sustainable, eco-friendly lawn that is better suited to today’s environmental challenges.
Final Thoughts
Swapping your artificial lawn for a real California lawn is a rewarding decision that benefits your property and the environment alike. By understanding the environmental and health risks associated with synthetic turf and taking proper precautions in removing fake turf, you can enjoy the beauty and benefits of a natural lawn. With proper care and maintenance, your new grass lawn will thrive, providing a safe, healthy, and beautiful space for you and your family to enjoy in the long term.