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!

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/

5 Tips To Get Rid of Mushrooms on Your California and Arizona Lawn

Are pesky mushrooms causing imperfections on your perfect California and Arizona lawn? Do you pull them and they seem to return in droves? You’re not alone, warm and moist conditions lead to growth of mushrooms (both unwanted and others). Let’s learn about ways to combat these from keeping your lawn picture perfect. To get rid of mushrooms in your lawn, you can try these methods:

• Aerate: Improve air circulation and water penetration to reduce moisture.
• Improve drainage: Install a drainage system to prevent water from pooling in your lawn.
• Remove mushrooms: You can mow, kick, or rake them over. You can also pluck them by hand and add a few drops of dish soap and water to their stems to burn the mycelium.
• Use a fungicide: Spray a fungicide on with a hose or sprinkle a powder on the area. Fungicides are meant to kill the mushroom at the root.
• Remove rotting wood: Remove any rotting wood and any tree stumps, as they provide food for mushrooms.
• Dry out the lawn: Fungi can’t grow without moisture, so fill in low spots with topsoil and replant with grass or turf.

Mushrooms will grow back as long as there’s organic decay in the soil and the area is warm and damp enough. Luckily as temperatures cool, the recurrence of these fungi will decrease, and your lawn will be back to pristine and peaceful. For more information visit https://westcoastturf.com

Overseeding is a rejuvenating process that can breathe new life into your grass. Fall is the perfect time for overseeding, since the soil is still warm from the summer months, and there’s usually a bit more moisture in the air. Overseeding helps fill in bare spots, improves turf density, and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of your lawn.

Here’s a step by step guide to overseeding your grass in the fall.

1.     Prepare your lawn. Start by measuring it – this is important for calculating how much seed and fertilizer you’ll need. Then mow your lawn shorter than usual for better seed-to-soil contact.

2.     Choose the right seed. Select a high-quality grass seed blend that suits the dry desert climate. Consider factors like sun exposure, soil type, and foot traffic of the area when making your choice.

3.     Seeding – Evenly distribute the seeds across the lawn, paying special attention to thin or bare areas, ensuring thorough coverage. Consider mixing seeds with a starter fertilizer to provide essential nutrients.

4.     Watering – It’s important to keep the soil consistently moist to support seed germination, so water lightly but frequently, ensuring the soil doesn’t dry out. A light watering in the morning is ideal.

5.     Maintenance – Germination can take several weeks. In this time, it’s best to avoid heavy foot traffic in the newly seeded areas. After that, resume mowing and watering as usual.

6.     Fertilization – once grass has reached 2-3 inches, apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.

When to Overseed:

Overseed established bermuda and other warm season lawns from mid-October through mid-November. Temperatures should be less than 65 F at night on a consistent basis or less than 78-83 F during the day. It is not recommended to overseed a bermuda lawn until it has been established for at least 3 months, allowing rhizomes to fully mature.

Winter Lawn Varieties

Perennial ryegrass is the primary grass for overseeding bermuda lawns. Perennial is preferred over annual ryegrass because it is heartier and the blades are darker green, finer, and easier to mow. Annual ryegrass is more likely to stain clothing and walkways.

1. You will want to rent a verticut and set it at the 1/2 to ¾ depth. Take out the thatch and dead material until you are left with approximately ½” of thatch. If you have any more than this it harbors insects, impedes water and fertilizer penetration. If you have a huge thatch buildup you have probably had some watering issues this summer and that directly impacted your drought tolerance.

2. Next you will lower your mowing height one setting and scalp down the leaf tissue. You are not trying to scalp the grass down to the dirt because this will result in a poor stand of grass for next year. You want to save some of the energy of the plant so it can come back strong in the spring. You will drop the height one more setting so you are just below your mowing height from a week ago and get a second scalp on the lawn to clean it up. This often results in the closing of the turf canopy and a second vertical cut is often necessary to open the grass plant back up. Once you have made the second vertical cut, mow up all the clippings and blow off any excess material from the grass. You lawn should have an open canopy so the seed can fall down into the thatch layer.

3. After the lawn has been cleaned up and the yard is clear, it is time to add your starter fertilizer.

4. Get your perennial rye seed and have your spreader calibrated to drop 8-10 pounds of seed per 1000 SF. You will start with the perimeter of the lawn and drop the seed at a ½ rate two directions. I advise having someone follow you while you seed with some paint and mark out where the seed has fallen so you don’t overlap or miss an area. After the edges are complete you will then switch to your rotary spreader and seed the middle of the yard at ½ rate two directions. Again the total rate is 8-10 pounds per 1000 SF so you will be putting out 4-5 pounds at a time. This ensures the grass comes up in corn rows and you have not missed any areas.

5. Turn on your water for 3-4 cycles per day for 5-7 minutes. You are just trying to keep the seed moist throughout the day and free from drying out. This will be the irrigation cycle for the first two weeks until the grass has grown up to an inch. At this point you can gradually reduce some of the daily cycles and get it down to one long cycle early in the morning.

6. At the 10-14 day mark apply your second fertilizer. You should use a balanced fertilizer that will help keep the grass growing and the root system developing.

7. You may be able to mow your grass before the second fertilizer application but if not, you will do it a couple days after it has worked itself into the soil. This is a longer cut and you are just giving the grass a haircut. Ideally this cut will be made to the grass in the afternoon when it has had a chance to dry down a little.

8. At the 3-4 week mark apply your third fertilizer application. You want to do this before we receive our first frost which is generally right around Thanksgiving. This will both get your grass growing and allow the ryegrass to start to tiller and get healthy. If you wait till after the frost you will often lose color in your ryegrass and get yourself stuck behind the 8 ball.

9. You should be mowing 1-2 times per week after the lawn is established and gradually taking it to your desired mowing heights.

10. Most of you will have your lawn up and established a couple weeks before we receive a frost so it is always a good idea to get another fertilizer application down right before this happens, usually in mid November. Use a product that will sustain a good root system and also keep color once the frost hits. On our farm we switch over to Soil Burst 4-4-2 to get the grass winter hardy and maintain good color.

*** It is very important to use the right amount of seed. There are several companies that advertise that you can get 20,000 SF out of a 50 pound bag of seed. If you read the directions on the back of the bag it clearly states this is for the northern states. These labels can sometimes be confusing so be careful.  Make sure you are buying a high quality perennial ryegrass seed with a minimum of 90 percent germination and zero weed seed.***

Video on how to scalp your lawn for overseeding.

Here is a video presentation with MORE info that can answer further questions.

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/

In Arizona and Southern California’s dry climate, using water efficiently is key to maintaining a healthy lawn. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose and manage the right irrigation system for your yard.

Types of Irrigation Systems

1. Sprinkler Systems

– Fixed Sprinklers: Provide consistent coverage for small to medium lawns.

– Oscillating Sprinklers: Best for rectangular areas.

– Rotary Sprinklers: Effective for circular areas.

2. Drip Irrigation Systems

– Deliver water directly to plant roots through tubes and emitters, reducing evaporation and runoff. Great for garden beds and varied plant needs.

3. Soaker Hoses

– Release water slowly along their length, perfect for garden beds and smaller areas. Easy to install and maintain.

4. Smart Irrigation Systems

– Use weather data and soil sensors to adjust watering schedules automatically, ensuring optimal water use and conservation.

Choosing the Right System

– Lawn Size and Shape: Larger or irregular lawns may need a mix of sprinklers or a smart system, while smaller areas can use soaker hoses or drip systems.

– Plant Types: Match the system to your plants’ water needs.

– Water Conservation: Drip and smart systems are best for conserving water.

Maintaining Your System

– Regular Checks: Inspect for leaks and clogs.

– Adjust Timers: Update watering schedules as needed.

– Clean Filters and Nozzles: Ensure proper water flow.

Watering Tips

– Water Early: Reduces evaporation.

– Avoid Overwatering: Check soil moisture before adding more water.

– Group Plants: Group plants with similar water needs for efficiency.

By choosing the right irrigation system and maintaining it well, you can keep your lawn healthy while conserving water. For expert advice and installation help, contact us today. Stay tuned for more tips on efficient lawn care!