Despite Obamas' shift to vegetables, lawns not useless

It was lawns versus vegetables in a recent newspaper story about the new 1,100-square-foot garden on the South Lawn of the White House.

The Obamas were praised by a Boston Globe columnist for planting vegetables and getting rid of the lawn. She called lawns a “populist enemy” and a “useless patch.” She mentioned the Edible Estates project, “whose goal is to begin replacing the domestic front lawn.”

The truth is that everyone involved would benefit if more of us gave up part of our lawns and grew some food. Another truth is that lawns are not useless.

Some of the reasons for growing grass:

- Soil erosion control. The dense roots and shoots of turfgrasses prevent soil losses from wind and water erosion. There is less dust and mud in your yard if you have a lawn.

- Groundwater recharge. Water running off across the surface is trapped and held by a dense stand of grass. As a result, water has a greater chance to soak into the ground.

- Breakdown of toxins. Urban runoff coming from paved areas carries pollutants, which are broken down and removed by the active populations of soil bacteria living in lawns.

- Soil improvement. Organic matter is added to soil over time as grass roots go through cycles of growth and decay. This creates a layer of rich topsoil.

- Temperature moderation. Houses surrounded by grass are cooler in summer than those surrounded by bare dirt and parking lots.

- Noise abatement. Lawn surfaces absorb noise better than hard surfaces. Glare is reduced by the multi-directional light reflection of turfgrass leaves.

- Decreased pests. Overgrown vegetation is a haven for pests. If you plant a lawn and mow it regularly, there will be fewer snakes, rodents, chiggers, ticks and mosquitoes in your yard.

- Wildlife habitat. Planting grass along with flowers, shrubs and trees is one way to attract a diverse wildlife population. Open expanses of lawn are feeding grounds for robins, bluebirds, goldfinches and lady bugs, among others.

- Recreation benefits. Turfgrass is essential for outdoor sports. Its resilient surface protects your legs from excessive impact whether you are walking or running. Nice lawns in parks and athletic field build community pride. Owners of home lawns get some exercise and therapeutic relaxation when they mow or do other lawn maintenance.

- Improved mental health. Gazing at a scene complete with lawns, flowers, shrubs and trees is good for people who are weary of fast-paced living and rapid urbanization.

- Better social harmony. Lawns create a pleasant environment in which to live, work and play. Lawn aesthetics boost the human spirit.

Davis is an Extension Agent for the Virginia Cooperative Extension. He can be reached by calling 455-3740.