What are the considerations of whether to have a lawn or not?

Maintaining a healthy lawn in the hot desert climate can be costly and time consuming. Obviously the green lawn has a beautiful appeal, is cooler than a desert landscape, and is more conducive for children to play. Whether you want a lawn depends on individual needs and preferences.

If you are going to have a lawn what are some of things necessary to keep it healthy and green?

Proper water, periodic aeration and fertilization are necessary to keep grass healthy and green. A lawn can use up to 35,000 gallons of water per year per 1000 sq. ft. The lawn should be core aerated at least once per year and 6 fertilizations per year are recommended.

If you are going to have green grass year round, you will need to over seed with a perennial rye every October.