The grass of dreams, the American ideal, is a green, well-trimmed lawn free of brown spots or blemishes, but it comes at a high cost: endless weekends of fertilizing, mowing, and watering.

But what if you could have the perfect lawn without the maintenance, chemicals and pesticides and the three trillion gallons of water that grass consumes each year?

Many people have been interested in installing artificial grass at any time. And one of the most asked questions is “How are we going to combat the drought? Eliminating ornamental grasses. That’s where a lot of our water goes.» It has been impossible to witness this year’s fires, droughts and disasters without feeling compelled to reduce waste in our own backyards.

In areas like Southern California where drought conditions are common, homeowners are discovering that artificial turf allows them to maintain a beautiful lawn without fear of violating water restrictions or the landscaping guidelines of their local Homeowners Association.

• No Maintenance

The fact that it requires no maintenance is often overstated. Regardless of how many times it is said, minimal maintenance is one of the key benefits of artificial turf. Time that would normally be spent for lawn care can now be used for family activities or relaxation.

• Eliminates Puddling

Prior to the turf being installed, the ground is rolled and smoothed out eliminating grooves and valleys where water can accumulate. Small irrigation channels are also added to help drain away excess water and prevent it from pooling in low areas.

• No Grass Stains

Children can play as hard as they want on artificial turf and  not get unsightly grass or mud stains on their clothing or their shoes. Sliding across natural grass normally results in long green or brown streaks that are extremely hard to get out. This doesn’t happen with artificial turf.

• No Bare Spots or Ruts

In natural grass, high volumes of foot traffic can lead to pathways, ruts or bare spots in lawns and gardens. Artificial turf is extremely resilient and resists the constant pressure of being walked on. The blades of the turf will bounce back and remain upright as long as the filler is in place.

• Shade Isn’t An Issue

Where natural grass can fade and die in shaded areas, artificial turf requires no direct sunlight. Synthetic turf works well in shade because it will maintain its color and size with or without sunlight and water.

• Safe for Children and Pets

One of the benefits of artificial turf is that may brands contain an anti-bacterial that helps to prevent the spreads of germs and bacteria. Children and pets can play on artificial turf without fear of being exposed to harmful pesticides, fertilizers or other toxic chemicals used in maintaining a natural grass lawn.

• Doesn’t Need Harsh Fertilizers

Because it doesn’t grow or spread, artificial turf is beautiful and vibrant without being fertilized on a regular basis. Turf will remain lush, green and toxin free. Harsh fertilizers can also have a disastrous effect on the local environment causing an overgrowth of algae in streams, rivers, ponds and lakes.

• Great for Recreational Areas

Artificial turf is ideal for recreational areas like bocce ball courts, tennis courts, putting greens and patio surfaces. It withstands high volumes of foot traffic and is highly resistant to wear and tear. It is also easy to cut and shape allowing it to be used in oddly shaped areas or in a variety of patterns.

• Drought Resistant

The only water an artificial turf lawn requires is to be rinsed occasionally to prevent odors and a build up of dust. Otherwise, synthetic turf needs no water and is ideal for areas in which drought conditions can be severe. The lack of rain and other forms of precipitation can lead to water restrictions and strict penalties for homeowners who violate them.

• Cost Effective

One of the most prominent benefits of artificial turf is its long lasting value and cost effectiveness. While it seems expense at first, it is actual an investment that can improve the value of your home for several years. Dividing the cost of the turf and its installation over the years it will remain in place and taking into consideration the minimal amount of money and time spent on maintenance, the turf will pay for itself in a few short years.

That’s the promise of artificial turf, a product proliferating across American yards as severe droughts strain our national water supply. In major cities like Las Vegas, Palm Beach, Florida, and even Boise, Idaho, homeowners all seem to be clamoring to replace their sod with yards of artificial turf.