Sage-Tips

When did lawns become a thing?

Lawns began to proliferate in America from the 1870s onwards. As more plants were introduced from Europe, lawns became smaller as they were filled with flower beds, perennials, sculptures, and water features. Eventually the wealthy began to move away from the cities into new suburban communities.

Why are front yards a thing?

The provision of a front garden in new houses became common practice during the second half of the 19th century as part of the Domestic Revival style within Victorian architecture: “to provide for the majority of new, even fairly modest, houses, a small front garden or paved forecourt, and a garden or yard at the back” …

Why are Americans obsessed with their lawns?

Lawns are indicative of success; they are a physical manifestation of the American Dream of home ownership. To have a well maintained lawn is a sign to others that you have the time and/or the money to support this attraction. It signifies that you care about belonging and want others to see that you are like them.

Why do houses have front lawns?

A little later on, the public park movement popularized the idea of a lawn as a place of communal gathering, which helped aid the lawn as a front yard statement: It was a place where you could gather with your neighbors in contrast to the enclosed, private backyard.

Where did the idea of the lawn come from?

1700s: Landscape designers in England and France premiered the concept of closely cut, well-kept grass areas in gardens. Drawing on the word “launde,” which referred to a grassy woodland clearing, they coined the term “lawn” in the process.

Why did grass lawns become popular?

A variety of factors caused grass lawns to become more popular. First, the Industrial Revolution resulted in the first lawn mower, originally developed by Edwin Budding in 1830, and popularized by the late 19th century. A lush, green lawn was necessary for these games to be played properly on your own land.

Where did the idea of lawns come from?

Turns out, the grass lawn as a status symbol has its origins in European aristocracy. The very first lawns were grassy fields that surrounded English and French castles. Castle grounds had to be kept clear of trees so that the soldiers protecting them had a clear view of their surroundings.

Why the American lawn is bad?

Their maintenance produces more greenhouse gases than they absorb, and they are biodiversity deserts that have contributed to vanishing insect populations. Residential lawns cover 2\% of US land and require more irrigation than any agricultural crop grown in the country.

Why do we grow grass in your yard?

We grow grass for one reason: we can mow it and it survives, even thrives. Any other plant, even most other grasses would die after being mowed with any regularity. There are over 10,000 species of grass, yet only about 50 of those are suitable for use in a lawn. The result: an even thicker, denser lawn.

Why do we need grass?

Grasses remove about six tons of carbon dioxide per acre, per year from the atmosphere. Without grass, the carbon sequestration processes won’t occur, and your carbon footprint will grow bigger. Grass also plays a vital role in capturing dust, smoke particles and other pollutants that harm people.

What purpose does grass serve?

Like all plants, grass plants in your lawn take in carbon dioxide from the air. Then, as part of the process of photosynthesis, those grasses help produce the oxygen you breathe. Healthy lawns are remarkably efficient at oxygen production.

What is open space in a neighborhood?

Open space can include: Green space (land that is partly or completely covered with grass, trees, shrubs, or other vegetation). Green space includes parks, community gardens, and cemeteries. Open space provides recreational areas for residents and helps to enhance the beauty and environmental quality of neighborhoods.

Is the lawn the Conqueror of the suburbs?

Conqueror of the suburbs, the lawn has quietly made its place into our everyday life. Here’s its fascinating history, from the medieval village greens to the garden of Downton Abbey and the arrival of inexpensive lawn mowers. If there is one element that dominates our suburbs, it’s the lawn.

When did lawn maintenance become the norm in America?

Sheep took over White House lawn maintenance duties during WWI. 1938: The Fair Labor Standards Act made a 40-hour workweek the new U.S. norm. Many Americans devoted newly free weekends to lawn enhancement, maintenance and enjoyment. 5,3 World War II soon sidelined those efforts, but post-war prosperity would accelerate lawn pursuits.

What is green space in a neighborhood?

Green space (land that is partly or completely covered with grass, trees, shrubs, or other vegetation). Green space includes parks, community gardens, and cemeteries. Open space provides recreational areas for residents and helps to enhance the beauty and environmental quality of neighborhoods.