Artificial grass, which is manufactured from synthetic fibres to resemble natural real grass, has developed over many years and has as bigger history than we think. In the past, it was commonly used on sports fields in large areas- however, over the past decade, many people have begun using artificial grass on their lawn, giving it a new residential use. Here is the history of artificial grass…

The 1960’s

David Chaney, who was the Dean of the North Carolina State University College of Textiles, was the head of a team of Research Triangle Researchers. Together, the group managed to create the first artificial turf, which we now recognise as artificial grass. This creation was followed by Sport Illustrated bestowing upon Chaney a title, which recognised him as the man ‘responsible for indoor major league baseball and welcome mats’.

In 1966, synthetic grass first become popular when AstroTurf was place inside the Astrodome in Houston, Texas. The stadium had attempted to use natural grass during the initial season in 1965, however this did not go according to plan and the result ended up forcing them to paint the dead grass green to create a façade of alive grass. Due to this, the infield was installed with artificial grass, with the outfield being installed several months later.

The 1970’s

The installation of synthetic grass eventually made its way around the US and Canada during the 1970’s, being installed in indoor and outdoor American football and baseball stadiums. Although it was possible to maintain real grass indoors, it was expensive and required high maintenance. Artificial grass offered lower maintenance and reduced costs overtime, which was a welcome alternative.

Here at Great Grass, we are the best suppliers of artificial grass around and, although it is safe to say that our biggest clients are not American football stadiums, we are certainly familiar with the commercial use in a backyard! Get in contact today for more information!