01The first artificial grass was created for... a sports venue in the '60s!
The history of artificial turf began in 1965 when Monsanto developed ChemGrass for a sports venue in Houston. However, the real...The history of artificial turf began in 1965 when Monsanto developed ChemGrass for a sports venue in Houston. However, the real revolution came in 1966 when it was installed in the Houston Astros' Astrodome stadium (which is why it was initially called "AstroTurf"). Interestingly, the first successful application wasn't for football per se, but because the stadium's dome wouldn't let natural grass grow indoors. Today, almost 60 years later, the technology has evolved to create fibers that look and feel like real grass.Read more
02An artificial turf field saves 2.3 million liters of water a year
A natural grass soccer field consumes approximately 2.3 million liters of water per year in irrigation alone. In Nogales, Sonor...A natural grass soccer field consumes approximately 2.3 million liters of water per year in irrigation alone. In Nogales, Sonora, where water is a precious and scarce resource, this figure takes on extraordinary relevance. Installing artificial grass in an average 50 m² yard equals saving the liters of water a family of 4 would consume in 8 years.Read more
03The polyethylene fibers in artificial grass are the same as supermarket bags... but far more sophisticated!
The polyethylene (PE) used in artificial grass is technically the same polymer as plastic bags, but of UHMW grade (Ultra High M...The polyethylene (PE) used in artificial grass is technically the same polymer as plastic bags, but of UHMW grade (Ultra High Molecular Weight). That means its molecules are 100-1,000 times longer, giving it UV resistance, flexibility and durability. A high-end artificial grass fiber can be bent 50,000 times without breaking.Read more
04Artificial foliage dates back to... the Egyptian Empire!
Egyptians used silk leaves and artificial flowers to decorate tombs more than 3,000 years ago. In Victorian times, cloth-and-wa...Egyptians used silk leaves and artificial flowers to decorate tombs more than 3,000 years ago. In Victorian times, cloth-and-wax artificial foliage became fashionable among European high society. Modern polyurethane and polyester foliage with UV protection is virtually indistinguishable from the natural thing at first glance, and can last 5-8 years outdoors without fading.Read more
05Dogs prefer artificial grass (and so do their owners)
A University of California study found that 78% of dogs showed a preference for doing their business on artificial grass vs. co...A University of California study found that 78% of dogs showed a preference for doing their business on artificial grass vs. concrete or gravel. This is because synthetic fibers retain less heat than concrete under the sun and offer a "natural" surface that dogs recognize. Plus, artificial grass insulates against bacteria and insects, reducing the risk of parasites in pets.Read more
Doesn't artificial grass feel "plasticky" and fake underfoot?
Answer: The technology has evolved enormously. The high-end artificial grasses distributed by ADIS use high-molecular-weight polyethylene fibers shaped like a "C" or "W" that bend ...
How long does artificial grass really last under the Sonora sun?
Answer: In Nogales, Sonora and Tucson, AZ, where UV radiation is intense most of the year, quality decorative artificial grass has a service life of 5 to 8 years. ...
Can I install artificial grass myself or do I need a professional?
Answer: For small areas (under 20 m²) with a flat surface, installation is an accessible DIY project: level the ground, lay geotextile fabric, roll out the grass, cut with a utilit...
Is it safe for my kids and pets? Doesn't it release toxic chemicals?
Answer: The artificial grasses distributed by ADIS are made from food-grade polyethylene (the same material as water bottles) and comply with safety regulations for human contact. ...
How much do I really save on water and maintenance compared to natural grass?
Answer: In Nogales, Sonora, the cost of water is significant and summer watering is almost daily. Let's do the math for a typical 50 m² yard: Natural grass: Daily ...