{"id":3847,"date":"2016-03-28T12:43:51","date_gmt":"2016-03-28T15:43:51","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/lawnstarter.wpengine.com\/?p=3847"},"modified":"2024-12-13T16:43:12","modified_gmt":"2024-12-13T19:43:12","slug":"lawn-removal","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lawnstarter.com\/blog\/lawn-care-2\/lawn-removal\/","title":{"rendered":"Thinking of Getting Rid of Your Lawn? Read This First"},"content":{"rendered":"

When you\u2019re tackling yardwork, you might feel like pulling your hair out, but some experts say you should think twice before pulling up your lawn.<\/p>

\u201cThere are many alternative solutions that should be considered before making the drastic decision to completely remove an established lawn. These options can be more cost-efficient and also better on the environment in the long run,\u201d says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs at the National Association of Landscape Professionals<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>

Lawn and Landscape Benefits<\/h3>

While some folks, especially those in drought-stricken areas, have scrapped their traditional lawns and replaced them with xeriscaping, native plants or other grass alternatives, Henriksen and other advocates extol the benefits of lawns and landscaping.<\/span><\/p>

\u201cWhen properly managed, grass and plants are good for the environment,\u201d Henriksen says.<\/span><\/p>

For instance, grass and plants remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and return oxygen, she says. Furthermore, grass and plants reduce water run-off, help stop mudslides and flash flooding, and can serve as a wildfire barrier. Also, lawns and landscaping act as \u201cnatural air conditioning\u201d around homes and offices, Henriksen says.<\/span><\/p>

The Look of Your Lawn<\/h3>
\"lawn\"<\/a><\/figure>

Photo: Flickr\/Matt<\/a><\/em><\/p>

Then there are the more aesthetic aspects. A survey commissioned by the National Association of Landscape Professionals found that 83 percent of Americans think having a yard is important. Henriksen says some studies even have shown that just gazing at lawns and landscaping can relieve stress.<\/span><\/p>

\u201cFor many Americans, lawns provide a healthy, safe place to enjoy the outdoors,\u201d she says.<\/span><\/p>

Of course, Henriksen advises being wise about choosing grasses and plants for your yard.<\/span><\/p>

\u201cA good landscape has many components that operate in harmony, including native grasses, trees, gardens, shrubs and hardscapes,\u201d she says. \u201cWhenever possible, use plants that are adapted to your area, as this means they should work well in your climate zone. In dry climates, opt for low-water-use plants.\u201d<\/span><\/p>

Intelligent Irrigation<\/h3>
\"lawn<\/a><\/figure>

Photo: Flickr\/Oregon State University<\/a><\/em><\/p>

Speaking of water use, Henriksen offers these smart practices for irrigating your lawn:<\/span><\/p>