Okay, I can certainly support folks being more water-wise with their gardens, particularly here in the West, and particularly with ornamental lawns.
But fake lawns? Give me a break.
First off, I don’t believe it looks “as good.” I don’t believe it won’t fade. I do believe that it has a limited lifespan, but I don’t believe it’s even 15 years.
I do believe it’s expensive … $6-7/sq. ft.
Um … guys … have you considered … well … um … plants? I mean, drought-worthy (if not xeriscape) plants. A lot prettier, and they grow on their own, and installation is a snap.
Some folks need play areas for kids, I suppose — though, I suspect, less than most lawns provide. This might be a good (if expensive) option for them. But, frankly, most front yards I’ve seen could use a lot less lawn than they have, particularly in our neck of the woods.
(via Les)
Though my parents planted a lawn when they built the house, by the time I was 5 weeds had replaced grass. My grandfather bricked the front yard leaving open spaces to plant in, and the back yard was concrete and bricks. I somehow survived my childhood without grass. I grant you I didn’t play many games of football with my self, but I did run around like most kids.
Addditionally, if you really need a lawn for your children, put it in the back yard, and put nice water-friendly plants in the front. Front yards don’t really make good play areas.
That’s my general thought.
If it’s good enough for professional sports, it’s good enough for my yard!