b'less water or drought cycles compared to wooded areas.Cost DifferencesWhen it comes to the cost difference between having a grass lawn and a native lawn, Rushe says the initial investment would be for the establishment of native species versus a cool/warm season lawn that would be a seed at a lower cost. Once mature, the native lawn will be more economical to maintain over a tur-fgrass lawn since the inputs and mainte-nance will be much less. Brilman says grass lawns do not nec-essarily require more input if you correctly select species and new genetics. A dense turf often requires more fertilizer and adequate water, she says. Native lawns do not typically have the density of standard turfgrass species and may not tolerate mowing as well. Mowing helps with uniformity and reduces places where ticks and other pests can occur. Wear tolerance is greater in improved turfIn the case of a sports turf, uniformity, an even surface and trafficability is imperative for species for sports, dogs and children, forsafety and maintenance. This can only be achieved through rigorous selective breeding.example. Holes in the canopy for eitherPHOTO COURTESY OF GO SEEDmay require some type of herbicide to control weeds. Turfgrass also prevents wind andLower growing cultivars require less It also depends where one lives, thewater erosion, sequesters COand pro- mowing. Use electric lawn mowers for 2species used, the availability of seed,vides green areas that are psychologi- less emissions.seeding rate and management regimentcally better for people, along with areasCappellazzi says one of the best ways of the lawn. that children and sports can be played,to make a lawn eco-friendlier includes Some areas are very well-adaptedBrilman says. Turfgrass creates a betterplanting species and varieties that are to growing grass and need minimalenvironment for people. There is also aregionally adapted. management, explains Cappellazzi. Inreduction in fire danger by providing aThis reduces the management and regions where few grasses grow, it takesgreen defensible space around homes. inputs required to maintain its health and more time and resources to maintainCappellazzi adds that a native lawnattractiveness. Mow at higher canopy grass. This applies to both improvedwith a diverse blend can perform theselevels (i.e., 4 inches vs. 2 inches or less). grass and native lawns. same functions.According to the EPA, lawnmowers Replacing a lawn with rocks orcontribute 5% of pollution in the U.S. City Benefits wood chips can help reduce erosion andLeaving your grass clippings in place also There are numerous benefits that grassdecrease your water use, but it will notincreases the potential of your lawn to can bring to a city. However, which typebuild soil carbon or foster a functionalincrease soil carbon.of grass is better for society in general? microbial community that enhances theAnother way toincrease diversity in Rushe says its important to selectwater and carbon cycles.lawns is by including clovers or flowers grasses that require less water and ferti- When it comes to making a lawn eco- that serve as pollinator habitat. lizer. In addition, keep a thick canopy offriendlier, Brilman says the best way toAllowing clovers to grow can also grass to reduce weed emergence. do this includes a reduction in fertilizer,reduce your need for nitrogen fertiliz-Brilman says turfgrass is effective inherbicides, fungicides and water by usingers, which further reduces energy use cooling the environment, lessening heatimproved cultivars such as A-LIST (Allianceand the potential for nutrient pollution, island effect and cleaning water that falls. for Low Input Sustainable Turf) cultivars.Cappellazzi says.OCTOBER 2021SEEDWORLD.COM /49'