Delta Sod Farmer Brings Drought-Resistant Turf That Requires Less Water To Stay Green
STOCKTON (CBS13) — A Delta sod farmer knew the predictions were bad for California. He's seen less rain each year. Ed Zuckerman, who comes from a family of farmers, wanted to stay in business, so for the last two years, Zuckerman watched grass grow.
"These are truly drought-resistant turfs we've been developing."
Zuckerman's Delta Bluegrass Company has researched a variety of native California grasses and experimenting with a blend of seeds to create new sod. Zuckerman said the company has come up with several lawn options that can remain emerald green year-round and require a lot less water.
"So basically half of the water rate that's normally called for turf grass," said Zuckerman.
The grass isn't traditional grass currently covering many San Joaquin Valley home properties. It requires less mowing, but needs to grow long.
"Let them [grass blades] grow up to about 18 inches and it lays over in a meadow look," said Zuckerman. "So, it's definitely slowly changing the look of the home lawn and the home landscape as time goes on."
The Delta Bluegrass Company does have a short grass. It requires just 30 percent of an average lawn's water, but it has a catch in the spring season.
"The only draw back on it is it produces a lot of beautiful white flowers which the bees love," said Zuckerman.
Zuckerman said drought-resistant grass will cost the property owner three times more than traditional lawn grass, but that the water savings could be a better investment. Zuckerman also said drought-resistant grass is an alternative to other drought tolerant lawns with lava rocks and cacti.
"Your kids can still play on this stuff," Zuckerman said the blades may be longer, but the grass is still soft to the touch.
