Lawns? Americans want them

Curb appeal is often talked about as being one of the most important parts of selling a home.

And a new survey confirmed that lawns remain very important to Americans. A recent survey by the National Association of Landscape Professionals found that 79% of participants believe the lawn is an important feature when looking for a home.

The only feature more popular than a lawn was a renovated kitchen, the survey found. Millennials were the most likely generation to yearn for a lawn, according to 82%, followed by 81% of Generation X and 77% of baby boomers.

And it’s because people use their lawns. Nearly 80% of respondents said they relax in their yard monthly, if not more frequently. And more than half of participants said they use their lawn for recreation at least once a month, while 47% said they entertain in their yards at least monthly. Still, one-third report using their yard to garden several times a week.

“While some may assume that trends toward urbanization or the increased use of electronics and technology have resulted in a decreased interest in lawns among younger Americans, the results of our research found just the opposite,” says Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for NALP. “Overall, the results confirm what professionals in the lawn care and landscape industry have long known – Americans have a great appreciation for the value that healthy lawns bring to their lives.”

To keep a healthy lawn, NALP suggested grass cycling, watering every few days, controlling weeds, sharpening mower blades and fertilizing the lawn.