The History of Artificial Turf
Artificial turf has come a long way from the shiny, plastic carpet used in early stadiums. What began as a sports-surface experiment in the 1960s has evolved into one of the most realistic, durable, and low-maintenance landscaping materials in the world — especially popular in sunny, drought-prone regions like Los Angeles.
We explore the full history of turf: where it started, how it changed, and the evolution from "AstroTurf" decades ago to the modern Turf we enjoy today.
The Origins
How Artificial Turf Was Born
1960s: A Government Project Sparks the Idea
Artificial turf began as part of a U.S. government initiative to improve physical fitness among urban youth. Schools in large cities lacked grassy fields, so researchers sought to create a durable playing surface that mimicked natural grass.
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This early research took place at the Chemstrand Company, a subsidiary of Monsanto, where scientists developed a synthetic surface originally known as ChemGrass.
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1966: AstroTurf Makes Its Debut
ChemGrass was first installed in the Houston Astrodome, the world’s first indoor domed stadium.
It became known as AstroTurf, and the name stuck so strongly it became synonymous with artificial grass for decades.
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But this early turf…
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was extremely stiff
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caused player injuries
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looked nothing like real grass
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felt more like green carpeting than a natural landscape
Still, it marked the beginning of a global industry.
1970s–1980s: Turf Evolves Beyond Stadiums
Following the Astrodome installation, demand grew across professional sports.
During these decades, manufacturers improved:
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fiber materials
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durability
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shock absorption
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UV resistance
However, turf was still mostly a sports-only product.
Residential use wasn’t common yet because turf remained too rough and unnatural for everyday yards.
1990s: The Shift Toward Realism
During the 1990s, turf technology experienced a major breakthrough:
The Introduction of Monofilament Fibers
Manufacturers began producing individual grass blades instead of turf “carpet fibers.”
This dramatically improved the realism in:
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appearance
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softness
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texture
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movement under foot
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Infill Systems Appear
Crumb rubber, silica sand, and hybrid infills were developed to help:
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stabilize turf
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add cushioning
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keep blades upright
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improve drainage
These innovations brought turf closer than ever to natural grass.
2000s: Turf Goes Residential
By the early 2000s, artificial turf started appearing in:
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backyards
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schools
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playgrounds
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municipal spaces
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commercial landscaping
The reasons were clear:
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1. Water Restrictions & Drought
In places like Los Angeles, drought regulations made natural grass expensive and inefficient.
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2. Turf Became Far More Realistic
Newer turf designs featured:
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multi-tone green colors
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brown thatch layers
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soft PE fibers
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improved cooling
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better drainage systems
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3. Low Maintenance
Homeowners loved the idea of a lawn that:
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never needs mowing
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stays green all year
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withstands heavy use
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saves on water and lawn-care costs
This era marked the rise of turf as a mainstream residential product.
2010s–Today: Modern Turf Technology
Today’s turf is almost unrecognizable compared to the original AstroTurf.
Modern synthetic grass is engineered for:
✓ Ultra-realistic appearance
Multiple blade shapes, textures, and tones recreate the natural look of real grass.
✓ Durability for high traffic
Better polypropylene and polyethylene blends improve longevity.
✓ Pet-Friendly Performance
Special drainage and antimicrobial infills eliminate odor and bacteria.
✓ Cooling Technology
Advanced infills reduce heat, making turf more comfortable in LA’s sun.
✓ Long Lifespan
Most high-quality turf lasts 15–20 years with proper installation and maintenance.
Turf in Los Angeles Has Surged in Popularity
​Los Angeles is one of the biggest artificial turf markets in the country.
Why?
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1. Drought + Water Costs
California has some of the highest water restrictions and pricing nationwide.
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2. Busy Lifestyles
People want green yards without the mowing, watering, or upkeep.
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3. Year-Round Sun
Turf stays green no matter how hot and dry the climate gets.
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4. Pets
LA has one of the highest dog-ownership rates in the U.S. — and modern turf is perfect for pet yards.
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5. Versatility
Turf works for:
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backyards
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balconies
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putting greens
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sports courts
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rooftops
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pool surrounds
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commercial properties