When you think of Earth Day, you probably picture recycling drives, park clean-ups, or planting a tree — but the biggest environmental impact you can make might be right outside your door. In Arizona and California, where water conservation is a year-round priority, choosing the right grass is more than a landscaping decision — it’s a commitment to a healthier planet.

At West Coast Turf, we’re proud to grow and supply sod that not only looks great but also helps protect the natural resources of the place we all call home.

The Eco-Friendly Lawn Revolution

In the past, a “perfect” lawn usually meant high water bills, heavy fertilizer use, and a lot of maintenance. But times have changed, and so has the definition of a great yard. More and more Arizona and California homeowners are embracing warm-season grasses and drought-tolerant options as part of an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Seashore Paspalum are specifically designed for the sunny, dry conditions common in the Southwest. These grasses:

✔️ Require less water than cool-season grasses
✔️ Handle extreme heat with ease
✔️ Stay green and durable in high-traffic areas
✔️ Promote healthy soil and reduce runoff

For areas where water restrictions are tight or for homeowners looking for even more sustainable options, Kurapia ground cover and native grass blends are excellent alternatives that reduce irrigation needs even further while adding visual beauty and biodiversity to your landscape.

Beyond Grass: Natural Lawns vs. Artificial Turf

Artificial turf is often marketed as a “green” solution — but in reality, it lacks nearly all of the environmental benefits of living grass. Natural lawns:

• Absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen
• Cool the surrounding environment (artificial turf can reach dangerously high temperatures)
• Filter stormwater and help replenish groundwater
• Support local wildlife and biodiversity

On Earth Day and every day, investing in a real, living landscape helps keep your yard healthier and the environment cleaner.

Smart Lawn Care for the Seasons

Another way Arizona and California homeowners can be eco-friendly is by adjusting seasonal lawn care.

Winter overseeding — often done for a year-round green appearance — comes at the cost of extra water during the cooler months. On the other hand, allowing your warm-season grass to go dormant over winter (called winter rest) saves water and gives your lawn a natural break before it reawakens in spring.

It’s a simple choice that helps your landscape work with the seasons, rather than against them.

Your lawn can do more than just look great — it can make a real difference. Choosing the right sod, using water wisely, and prioritizing living landscapes over synthetic shortcuts are all ways to create a more sustainable outdoor space for your family and future generations.

At West Coast Turf, we’re committed to providing California and Arizona homeowners with the highest-quality, environmentally smart sod options. Whether you’re installing a new lawn or upgrading an old one, your choices today can help shape a greener tomorrow.

Visit westcoastturf.com to explore our warm-season grass varieties and expert resources. Let’s grow greener, together.

Environmentally Conscious Lawns That Are Here to Stay From West Coast Turf

The definition of the “perfect lawn” is changing — and fast. Gone are the days when the best yard on the block was the one guzzling the most water to stay green year-round. The new gold standard for modern homeowners is a landscape that’s both beautiful and environmentally responsible.

Today’s homeowners are making smarter choices, and the conversation around what’s growing in your California and Arizona yard is evolving. Whether you’re planning a new lawn or rethinking your current landscape, the shift toward sustainable, water-wise solutions is here to stay. And leading the way are warm-season grasses.

The Smart Choice: Warm-Season Grasses

When it comes to balancing curb appeal with eco-awareness, warm-season grasses like Bermudagrass and Seashore Paspalum check all the boxes. These grasses are perfectly adapted for hot, dry climates and thrive in the kind of summer sun that leaves cool-season grasses struggling.

Their deep root systems allow them to handle drought far better than traditional lawn grasses. Once established, they require far less water to maintain a healthy, green appearance — meaning you’re not only reducing your water usage but also your monthly water bill.

At West Coast Turf, we grow and supply several premium warm-season grass varieties that deliver year-round beauty and serious durability for home landscapes, sports fields, parks, and golf courses.

Ditch the Plastic, Skip the Guilt

In recent years, artificial turf has been marketed as a “water-saving” option, but the reality is far from green. Synthetic grass lacks all of the environmental benefits a living lawn offers — no cooling effect, no carbon sequestration, no filtration of rainwater, and no support for the surrounding ecosystem.

Not to mention: under the hot sun, artificial turf can reach temperatures far higher than concrete or asphalt, making it uncomfortable and even unsafe during peak summer months. Choosing warm-season grasses or ground covers like Kurapia (a low-water flowering option) offers real ecological benefits while keeping your yard inviting and alive.

Overseeding vs. Winter Rest

Another way to stay environmentally conscious is in how you handle the off-season. Homeowners traditionally overseed warm-season lawns with cool-season grasses for a year-round green look. While this can maintain visual appeal, it requires winter watering and extra care.

An increasingly popular alternative is embracing “winter rest.” Allowing your warm-season grass to go dormant during the colder months means turning off the irrigation and letting nature take its course. When spring returns, your lawn will bounce back — healthy and ready for another season — without the waste of off-season watering.

The New Joneses Lead the Way

The best yards today aren’t just about perfect stripes and pristine edges — they’re about smart choices that work with the environment, not against it. Whether you choose a low-water warm-season grass, explore ground covers like Kurapia, or blend native plants into your design, you’re contributing to a healthier future.

At West Coast Turf, we’re proud to offer solutions that let you have the best of both worlds: a stunning California and Arizona lawn and a conscious approach to sustainability.

Ready to join the new Joneses? Visit westcoastturf.com and explore grass varieties, installation tips, and expert advice on building a lawn that looks great — and does good.

Maintaining a lush California and Arizona lawn during the warm winter months in desert climates requires thoughtful care and attention. Here are some effective strategies to ensure your grass remains vibrant and healthy despite the warmer days and cooler nights.

1. Aerate and Overseed

Aeration is crucial for improving soil health. Use an aerator to create small holes in the lawn, allowing water, air, and nutrients to penetrate the soil more effectively. This process helps reduce soil compaction and promotes stronger root growth. Following aeration, overseed with a winter-hardy grass mix, such as ryegrass, to fill in any sparse areas and prepare your lawn for spring growth.

2. Fertilize Wisely

Apply a winter-specific fertilizer to provide essential nutrients during the cooler months. This is particularly important for warm-season grasses that may still be growing. Fertilizing helps maintain color and vigor, ensuring your lawn is ready for the warmer months ahead. Aim to fertilize every 6 to 8 weeks during winter.

3. Adjust Watering Practices

Here in the Coachella Valley we have strict conservation practices: no watering until dusk or later. Watering needs change significantly in winter. In desert climates, it’s important to water deeply but less frequently. For trees, water to a depth of 3 feet; for shrubs, 2 feet; and for ground cover, about 1 foot. Monitor soil moisture levels to avoid overwatering, which can harm desert-adapted plants. Ask a professional if unsure.

4. Regular Mowing

Keep your grass at an optimal height of about 2 to 2.5 inches. Regular mowing encourages healthy growth and prevents disease by allowing sunlight to reach the soil. During winter, you may not need to mow as frequently; adjust your schedule based on growth rates.

5. Clear Debris

Maintaining a clean lawn is vital for preventing disease and promoting healthy growth. Regularly remove leaves, branches, and other debris that can block sunlight and trap moisture. This practice also helps reduce pest habitats. This includes all of those festive holiday lawn decorations as well.

6. Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Even in warmer climates, pests can be active during winter months. Keep an eye out for signs of infestations or diseases and treat them promptly. Regular inspections can help catch issues before they become serious problems.Talk to your lawn care maintenance providers. 

By following these tailored tips for winter lawn care in desert climates like Palm Springs, and the greater Coachella Valley, homeowners can enjoy a beautiful and healthy lawn year-round. With proper aeration, fertilization, watering practices, mowing, debris management, and pest monitoring, your lawn will thrive even through the cooler months.

Implementing these strategies will not only enhance your lawn’s appearance but also set it up for success as temperatures rise again here shortly in spring!

When it comes to creating the perfect California and Arizona outdoor space, homeowners and businesses are often faced with a choice: natural grass or artificial turf? While artificial options may seem appealing at first glance, the health benefits of natural grass lawns are undeniable. Let’s explore why choosing a real grass lawn from an industry leader like West Coast Turf is the best decision for your health and the environment.

Environmental Health

Natural grass lawns play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy environment. Unlike artificial turf, real grass acts as a natural air purifier, capturing dust and dirt from the air, absorbing carbon dioxide, and producing oxygen. This process helps improve the air quality around your home, creating a fresher and healthier outdoor space for you and your family to enjoy.

Moreover, natural grass supports biodiversity by providing a habitat for various insects, birds, and small animals. This ecological balance is essential for maintaining a healthy ecosystem in your backyard and the surrounding area.

Temperature Regulation

One of the most significant advantages of natural grass over artificial turf is its ability to regulate temperature. Real grass can be up to 15 degrees cooler than the ambient temperature, while artificial turf can become extremely hot in direct sunlight. This temperature difference not only makes your outdoor space more comfortable but can also help reduce cooling costs for your home during hot summer months. A 15 degree reduction in these scorching summers? Yes please!

Physical Safety

For those who enjoy outdoor activities or have children and pets, natural grass provides a safer surface. Real grass offers a softer landing for falls and reduces the risk of injuries compared to artificial turf. Additionally, natural grass doesn’t contain the potentially harmful chemicals found in some artificial turf products, making it a healthier choice for active families.

Mental Well-being

The benefits of natural grass extend beyond physical health. Spending time on a lush, green lawn can have positive effects on mental well-being. The natural scent of freshly cut grass and the sensation of walking barefoot on cool blades can help reduce stress and promote relaxation. Lawn care is also a large industry and economic driver in the Coachella Valley, keeping many workers employed and busy year-round is a great thing!

Choosing West Coast Turf: A Legacy of Excellence

When it comes to selecting the perfect natural grass for your lawn, West Coast Turf stands out as an industry leader with over 50 years of experience. Founded in 1972, West Coast Turf has been providing top-quality natural grass and sod to homeowners, sports stadiums, and golf courses across California and Arizona.

West Coast Turf’s commitment to excellence is evident in their impressive client list, which includes major sports venues like Angel Stadium, Dodger Stadium, and the Rose Bowl. They’ve even supplied sod for ten Super Bowls, earning them the title “Home of Super Bowl Sod”.

What sets West Coast Turf apart is their dedication to environmental stewardship and innovation. They offer more than 30 different varieties of turfgrass, ensuring that you can find the perfect match for your climate and needs. Their use of state-of-the-art growing technology and overseeding techniques guarantees that you’ll receive the healthiest and most durable natural grass available.

The Future of Golf: Sustainable and Stunning

As the golf industry continues to evolve, the focus on sustainability is becoming increasingly important. By implementing water-smart solutions, golf courses can not only reduce their environmental impact but also improve their bottom line through reduced water and maintenance costs.

West Coast Turf is at the forefront of this green revolution, offering a wide range of water-efficient turfgrass options and expert advice on sustainable golf course management. By partnering with industry leaders like West Coast Turf, golf courses in arid regions like the Coachella Valley and beyond can create stunning, eco-friendly landscapes that will delight players for generations to come.

The future of golf in arid regions is bright, green, and water-smart. By embracing innovative technologies, sustainable design practices, and drought-resistant turfgrass, golf courses can continue to provide world-class playing experiences while being responsible stewards of our precious water resources.

Water-smart golf course design goes beyond turfgrass selection. Incorporating native plants, xeriscaping techniques, and strategic use of hardscaping can dramatically reduce water needs while enhancing the course’s aesthetic appeal. Many courses are reducing turf in out-of-play areas and replacing it with drought-resistant landscaping, creating visually striking contrasts that add character to the course. West Coast Turf are leaders in innovation and sustainability. Visit our website for more information: https://westcoastturf.com

Maintaining a beautiful lawn while accommodating pets can be challenging but rewarding. Here are five essential tips for lawn care that will help you achieve a lush, green turf while ensuring your furry friends can enjoy their outdoor space safely.

1. Choose Durable Grass Varieties

Selecting the right type of grass is crucial for a pet-friendly lawn. Opt for durable grass species that can withstand wear and tear from pets running and playing. Varieties depend on climate and area:

Bermuda & Rye grasses work best in our arid desert climate, depending on time of year.

These grasses are more resilient to pet activities and less likely to suffer from damage caused by urine or digging.

2. Implement Regular Maintenance Routines

Regular maintenance is key to keeping your lawn healthy. This includes:

– Frequent Mowing: Keeping your grass at a height of about 2 to 3 inches helps it recover from pet traffic and reduces the visibility of any yellow spots caused by urine.

– Watering: Water your lawn regularly, especially after your pet relieves itself. This dilutes the nitrogen in urine, preventing brown patches.

– Fertilizing: Use pet-friendly fertilizers and apply them less frequently to avoid overloading the soil with nitrogen, which can harm your grass.

 3. Create Designated Pet Areas

To protect your lawn, consider creating specific areas for your pets to play and relieve themselves. This eliminates any “landmines” you may step in as well.  This can be done by:

– Installing Fencing or decorative rock perimeters: Use natural barriers or fences to separate pet areas from the rest of your lawn.

– Setting Up Potty Zones: Designate a specific spot filled with mulch or gravel for bathroom breaks. This not only keeps your main lawn intact but also helps train your pets to use that area consistently.

 4. Clean Up Promptly

Immediate cleanup of pet waste is essential for maintaining a healthy lawn. Regularly remove solid waste and rinse areas where pets urinate to prevent odor buildup and grass damage. This practice not only keeps your lawn looking good but also promotes a healthier environment for both pets and humans.

5. Minimize Chemical Exposure

When caring for your lawn, choose organic or pet-safe products whenever possible. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could harm your pets if ingested or inhaled. Always keep pets indoors during lawn treatments until the area is safe again. Using natural ingredients for pest control and fertilization will ensure a safe environment for your furry friends while maintaining vibrant turf.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a beautiful, thriving lawn that accommodates your pets’ needs without compromising on aesthetics or safety. For more information visit https://westcoastturf.com

While the desert temperatures finally start to cool down we will all be enjoying more time outdoors and enjoying the desert lifestyle to the fullest. Golf courses are reopening and luckily the majority are natural grass. But use caution when on artificial turf as there are several hidden dangers you may be unaware of.

1. It can be dangerous to pets and children:

When pet waste is left unattended, it becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and pathogens. These invisible dangers can lead to various health issues, especially if you have little ones and pets who love spending time outdoors and or have compromised health conditions such as asthma, COPD, cancers, and a vulnerable immune system.

2.Chemical exposure:

Chemicals known to be carcinogenic such as heavy metals, volatile organic compounds like benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, and harmful butadiene have been detected in turf infill made from recycled tires. “Eco-friendly” artificial turf is not a certifiable claim.

3. Heat:

This concern is paramount in the Coachella Valley and surrounding Southern California areas, where temperatures hit 124 degrees this summer. Artificial surface temperatures can get up to 60 degrees higher than natural grass (and have even been measured as high as 200 degrees Fahrenheit on a summer day!) The air at your head height also measures much hotter than the air directly above natural grass surfaces like West Coast Turf. This increases the risk of skin burns and heat illness, not to mention burning the paws of your beloved pets as well.

These are just a few of the reasons that a synthetic artificial turf surface can be harmful to you, your loved ones, your children or grandkids, and even your pets. Please contact us today for your safest option: natural turf from West Coast Turf.

For more information, visit: https://www.westcoastturf.com/

Just as a quality haircut can transform your look, a well-maintained lawn can elevate your home’s appearance from average to magazine-worthy. But achieving that lush, green grass isn’t just about tossing some seeds and hoping for the best. It requires careful attention to watering, mowing, and selecting the right type of grass.

Timing is Everything

First things first: when should you water and mow your lawn? According to Dani North, a lawn expert at West Coast Turf, the best time to water is early in the morning, between 5 a.m. and 8 a.m. This allows your grass to absorb the moisture before the heat of the day sets in. As for mowing, the ideal time is between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. This window ensures the grass is dry enough for a clean cut, avoiding the risk of creating an unkempt appearance or damaging the blades.

If mornings aren’t feasible, the second-best time to mow is between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. Mowing during these times helps avoid the peak heat of midday, which can stress the grass and lead to burning.

Seasonal and Regional Considerations

Your lawn’s needs also depend on your location and the type of grass you choose. In cooler regions like Northern California to New Jersey, cool-season grasses such as tall fescue and Kentucky Bluegrass thrive. These grasses should be kept between 2 to 3 inches for optimal health. Conversely, warmer areas from Southern Arizona to North Carolina are better suited to warm-season grasses like Bermuda and St. Augustine. Bermuda grass, for example, prefers to be kept between a quarter inch and three-quarters of an inch.

Choosing the Right Grass

Selecting the right type of grass for your region is crucial. For drought-tolerant options, Bermuda grass is a top choice in Southern California, where North resides. It’s durable and requires less frequent mowing—about every two weeks. In contrast, cool-season grasses like tall fescue need more water but are still resilient.

To simplify your grass selection process, North suggests using TheRealCaliforniaLawn.com to find local growers who offer grass varieties suited to your area.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Be sure to avoid mowing in the evening or at night, as open cuts in dark, damp conditions can leave grass vulnerable to disease. Also, avoid watering during the hottest part of the day, as this can lead to water loss through evaporation and stress the plants further.

By understanding the best times to water and mow and choosing the right type of grass for your region, you can achieve a lawn that not only looks great but thrives throughout the seasons. Happy mowing!

For more information visit https://www.westcoastturf.com/

Summer in Southern California is associated with great weather and beach days, but in the desert regions of Southern California and Arizona, summer means intense heat that can be tough on your lawn. As temperatures soar, preparing your lawn for the unforgiving sun is crucial to maintaining a lush, green yard. Here are some ways to help you keep your grass in good shape during the hottest months.

1. Adjust Your Watering Schedule

Watering is key to keeping your lawn healthy, but in the heat, it’s important to be strategic. Early morning is the best time to water your lawn, ideally before 8 a.m. This helps reduce evaporation and allows the grass to absorb moisture before the heat of the day. Aim to water deeply but less frequently—about once a week—to encourage deep root growth and drought resistance.

2. Mow Smartly

During extreme heat, raise your mower blades to leave your grass a bit longer. Longer grass shades the soil, reducing evaporation and keeping roots cooler. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the grass height at a time to prevent stressing the lawn. Also, make sure your mower blades are sharp to ensure clean cuts, which help the grass heal faster.

3. Fertilize Wisely

Fertilizing during extreme heat can stress your lawn further. Instead, focus on a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in late spring or early summer. This helps your lawn build up nutrients gradually without overwhelming it during peak temperatures.

4. Aerate Your Lawn

Aeration improves soil health by allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate deeper into the ground. This is especially beneficial during hot weather when lawns may become compacted. Aerate your lawn in early summer to give your grass a better chance of thriving throughout the season.

5. Use Mulch and Shade

Apply a layer of mulch around garden beds and lawn edges to help retain soil moisture and regulate temperature. Additionally, consider adding shade structures like pergolas or shade cloths over particularly vulnerable areas of your lawn to reduce direct sun exposure.

6. Monitor for Stress Signs

Keep an eye out for signs of heat stress, such as a bluish-gray tint or footprints that remain visible on the grass. If you notice these symptoms, increase watering slightly but avoid overwatering, which can lead to other issues like fungal growth.

7. Address Lawn Pests and Diseases

Heat can weaken your lawn, making it more susceptible to pests and diseases. Regularly check for signs of trouble and treat any problems promptly with appropriate, environmentally friendly solutions.

By following these best practices, you can help your lawn withstand the extreme heat and remain healthy and vibrant all summer long. A little extra care goes a long way in ensuring your outdoor space stays beautiful and enjoyable, even in the hottest weather.

For more tips on maintaining a stunning lawn in Southern California’s challenging climate, stay tuned to our blog or contact us for personalized advice and solutions. For more information visit: https://westcoastturf.com

One guest you didn’t invite (and don’t want) at your outdoor events: mosquitoes. Not only a nuisance for outdoor activities, they also pose health risks due to their ability to transmit diseases. Controlling them is possible, if you follow these steps.

Eliminate stagnant water. This is a prime breeding ground for mosquitoes and gnats. Regularly remove containers or debris that may collect water, and ensure gutters are free of obstructions. It’s essential to note that mosquito larvae can mature in as little as 8–10 days, highlighting the urgency of removing all potential breeding sites. 

Maintain a well-groomed lawn to discourage mosquito habitats. Overgrown grass, bushes, and trees create favorable living conditions for mosquitoes. Regular lawn maintenance reduces these ideal breeding grounds. Minimize shady, damp areas, and mow tall grass according to the recommended height for your grass type.

Apply insecticide to the lawn and bushes on a monthly basis, adjusting frequency based any rainfall. This shouldn’t be an issue in arid climates like Southern California and Arizona, where summer rainfall is minimal. 

Adjusting lighting can also deter mosquitoes and other nighttime insects, as these pests are often drawn to lights. Consider utilizing insect-repelling lighting to address this concern. Incorporating plants with strong aromas, such as mint and rosemary, into the landscape can help repel mosquitoes. Other insect-repelling plants include lavender, marigold, citronella grass, catmint, basil, sage, lemon balm, lemon thyme, garlic, and catnip.

Use these tips to keep your outdoor parties mosquito free! For more information, visit westcoastturf.com