Are Americans Obsessed With Their Lawns?
Posted by Staff of goGardenNow on
An article by Krystal D'Costa proposes that Americans are obsessed with their lawns. "Lawns are the most grown crop in the U.S.—and they're not one that anyone can eat; their primary purpose is to make us look and feel good about ourselves." Not without plenty of support. D'Costa gives a good history of the phenomenon and discusses its implications.
"The state of a homeowner’s lawn is important in relation to their status within the community and to the status of the community at large. Lawns connect neighbors and neighborhoods; they’re viewed as an indicator of socio-economic character, which translates into property- and resale values. Lawns are indicative of success; they are a physical manifestation of the American Dream of home ownership. To have a well maintained lawn is a sign to others that you have the time and/or the money to support this attraction. It signifies that you care about belonging and want others to see that you are like them. A properly maintained lawn tells others you are a good neighbor. Many homeowner associations have regulations to the effect of how often a lawn must be maintained."
It's a very interesting article. What do you think about it?
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