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Grass That Will Last a Lawn, Lawn Time

From "Grounds for Improvement"
episode DGFI-209

Figure A

Grace and Mark Hallett have always wanted a tranquil and colorful space in their barren backyard, but due to the heat and dry conditions of the Nevada climate, it's been impossible to achieve. But with the help of a synthetic lawn, their dream is about to become a reality (figure A). And as an added bonus, this lawn will never require mowing, fertilizing or watering.

After raking up the large surface calichi rocks, a 3"-4"deep sub-base of gravel is poured, leveled, graded and compacted with a plate compactor, creating a flat foundation for the synthetic turf. With the first layer in place, a second layer of gravel is poured, leveled and sprayed down with water before being compacted. Next an 8" metal edging is installed to form a boundary between the lawn and the path; the sub-base close to the edging is firmed with a hand tamp (figure B) (figure C).

Figure B

Figure C

The synthetic nylon turf is now ready for installation. This type of lawn comes in various styles, with prices ranging from $2-$6 per square foot. It has a porous matting that allows water to drain through to the sub-base, and stains or pet odors can be removed with a solution of vinegar and water.

After rolling it in place, a carpet cutter is used to cut off any excess and slits are cut in the lawn to fit it around fencing posts (figure D). Six-inch nails are placed 6" apart and 1" back from one edge and hammered into the ground, making sure the nailheads are buried below the carpet fibers. Additional nails are placed intermittently along the turf edges (figure E). A knee-kicker is then used to remove bubbles and wrinkles from the turf (figure F).

Figure D

Figure E

Figure F