A few years ago, I heard about genetically modified grass that was slow growing. You would only have to cut it about 3 or 4 times a year. Is this stuff being mass produced yet?
http://www.netlondon.com/news/2000-32/3AA2862EFB22C700802.html
From an article dated 4/24/02:
“Though the “low mow” slow-growing grasses are still several years away from commercial availability, genetically modified creeping bentgrass could pop up on the market by 2004 or 2005 … <snip>”
http://www.organicconsumers.org/patent/grass042402.cfm
-Redactatrix
You might want to check out www.zoysiafarms.com/mag for a grass that,according to their ads, will:
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cut your water bills and mowing by as much as 2/3
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ends re-seeding and never needs replacement
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no need to dig up old grass
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for slopes, play areas and bare spots
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stays green in spite of heat and drought
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resists inasects and disease so no need for weedkillers and pesticides
7 chokes out crabgraqss and weeds
PLUS it’s guaranteed to not winter kill or heat kill.
Actually, I’m thinking of ordering some just to test it out on the really crappy clay spots in my backyard.
Zoysia grass is great if you live in the south. Although it will “stay green in spite of heat and drought”, it will not stay green in cold temperatures. In northern climes it typically looks like hay for six months of the year. It is also very invasive and almost impossible to remove. It will take over your neighbor’s lawn if it has access.
In short, it is everything they say it is, and more. Beware the more.
I looked into the zoysia grass, too, but apparently it is totally the wrong choice for peoples up north - at the first hint of cold, it turns brown. So your lawn will be brown from September to April. Which may not be an improvement. Every thing I read said not to use it in Minnesota, and I’m thinking that Michigan would be in the same boat.