3 Reasons You Should Consider Turf Reduction Conversion

Silverado Springs-33From California to the Southwest, the drought conditions continue. As we suffer through yet another year of harsh climate, property managers will find it a challenge to keep turf grass green and healthy. In addition, higher water costs and frequent water restrictions have us reevaluating landscape maintenance options.

With no end to the drought in sight, we have to think more proactively of ways to landscape with less water. What can you do to:

  • Maintain the beauty of the landscaping on your property?
  • Use less water in your landscape?
  • Keep your plants alive and healthy?

One of the best ways to accomplish these goals is with a turf reduction conversion.

What is Turf Conversion (or reduction)?

Silverado CA - Before Conversion
Silverado CA – Before Conversion

Turf reduction or landscape conversion involves replacing selected sections of turf grass with drought-resistant, native plants or other landscape materials. Turf reduction conversion doesn’t mean covering your property in pea gravel or monkey grass.
With the vast selection of beautiful native plants with low water needs, creative design and use of alternative landscaping materials, you will not miss the turf areas.

Native Plants and Xeriscaping

Silverado CA - After Conversion
Silverado CA – After Conversion

Based on the climate and layout of your property, you can use a variety of low-growing ground covers such as Asiatic Jasmine and Lamb’s Ear that can take the heat and have low water requirements. Water-wise perennials and ornamental grasses will also add color and texture to the landscape design.

Landscape Alternatives

Crushed granite, mulch and river rocks are a few landscape alternatives to replace irrigated turf grass in areas that are long and narrow or small and odd-shaped.

Why You Should Consider Turf   Reduction Conversion

1. Uses less landscape water and reduces watering costs

Did you know that landscape watering accounts for nearly 30% of your residential water bill? 

Everyone loves the look of a beautifully manicured, lush, green turf area on their property. However, turf reduction can substantially reduce your water needs.  Because of the rising cost of landscape watering, many municipalities offer a rebate for reducing the turf areas on residential and commercial properties.

Silverado HOA saved more than $5,000 in water costs the  first year of installation.

2. Is turf grass the best choice for certain areas?

The best use of turf grass is on areas where people will be sitting or playing. Ask yourself: Is it necessary to have turf grass in parking strips/islands or on south-facing slopes? Why pay to water turf in these hard-to-maintain areas, when that water can be used for the most valuable things in your landscape: trees.

3. Sustainability and being green

Today, being water-wise and sustainable are not just buzzwords. Irrigation modifications, using native plants and xeriscaping design are not only good for business, but reducing your water usage is the right thing to do.  This can help with property values and attractiveness to tenants who value sustainability.
Is turf reduction right for your property? Take a look at our Free Education SeminarContact Us to find out if turf conversation would be beneficial for your property.

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