Removal of turfgrass for water supply resilience

Abstract

Landscape plant palettes are changing due to water supply pressure. Turfgrass area is being replaced with alternative ground covers, other non‐irrigated plants or hardscapes. Mechanisms range from incentive programs sometimes called “cash for grass” to outright bans on the use of turfgrass in “nonfunctional” areas or areas otherwise considered unnecessary. Despite evidence that shifts in landscape plants such as turf removal can save water, questions remain about the long‐term impact of such programs as well as the high cost. This shift in plant palettes will need to be accompanied by development of new groundcovers. In addition, there is opportunity for turfgrass breeding and development for cultivars that require no irrigation in humid climates.