Lawns have become an indispensable part of our gardens. They serve as a playground, a peaceful oasis, and a green calling card in front of the house. But did you know that a well-manicured lawn was once a symbol of wealth? Its history stretches back centuries – and its popularity remains unbroken worldwide.
The roots of the lawn: A status symbol of the nobility
As early as the Middle Ages, nobles in Europe used large, short-cut lawns around their castles. These were not only aesthetically pleasing, but also served a practical purpose: An unobstructed view of the surrounding countryside provided protection from surprise attacks. However, the perfectly manicured lawns were labor-intensive and only the upper classes could afford them.
In the 17th century, lawns became a popular design element in gardens and parks, especially in England and France. King Louis XIV had vast lawns laid out at Versailles, which were tended exclusively by gardeners with scythes. England followed suit with landscape gardens in which green meadows served as harmonious transitions to nature.
The democratization of the lawn
With industrialization and the invention of the lawnmower by Edwin Budding in 1830, lawn care became more affordable. In the 19th century, manicured lawns found their way into urban parks and eventually into the front gardens of the middle class. By the 20th century—with the suburban boom—the lawn had become the epitome of a well-maintained home.
Types of lawn: From English perfection to wild meadow
Not every lawn is the same. There are different types of lawn depending on use and climate:
- English lawn: Dense, lush green, and immaculate—this lawn is the ideal image of a well-kept garden. However, it requires intensive care and is particularly susceptible to drought.
- Play and sports lawn: Robust and hardwearing – this lawn is ideal for family gardens, sports fields and public parks.
- Flower meadow : A natural alternative to traditional lawns. It requires less maintenance, attracts insects, and promotes biodiversity.
- Artificial turf: Particularly popular in dry regions because it requires neither water nor extensive maintenance. However, it lacks the natural flair of a real lawn.
Lawns worldwide: A look beyond the horizon
The lawn has different meanings and uses in different countries:
- England: Here, the grass is considered sacred. Cricket and golf courses, in particular, rely on perfectly manicured grass. The Wimbledon tennis lawn is legendary and maintained according to strict rules.
- USA: The American front lawn is an icon of the "American Dream." In the suburbs, meticulously maintained lawns are considered good form – however, their high water consumption is increasingly viewed with skepticism.
- Japan: In traditional Japanese gardens, grass plays a subordinate role. Instead, moss gardens are preferred, which have a meditative effect.
- Australia: Due to the drought, many households are turning to water-saving alternatives such as artificial turf or rock gardens.
Surprising facts about lawns
- A healthy lawn produces enough oxygen for a family of four.
- In the US, more money is spent on lawn care than on schools and universities.
- A lawn can lower the ambient temperature by up to 10 degrees – a natural climate regulator.
- The largest lawn garden in the world is Kew Gardens in London with over 120 hectares of green space.
Conclusion: More than just a green area
The lawn is far more than a simple patch of grass – it is cultural history, a status symbol, and nature all at once. Whether as a manicured ornamental lawn, a durable playground, or a blooming wild meadow – the possibilities are endless. With the increasing discussion about water consumption and biodiversity, the lawn of the future may change, but its importance as the focal point of many gardens will remain.
What type of lawn do you prefer? Maybe it's time to enrich your garden with new ideas!
Create your dream lawn , whether with turf rolls, a grass mat , or sowing grass. Many paths lead to your green goal.
