A Brief History of Lawn Care (TX Style)

Y’all ever stop and wonder why we Texans love our green lawns so much? Well, it turns out that lawn care has a pretty wild history, from royal palaces in Europe to the backyards of modern Texas!

A Royal Beginning

Let’s take it back to 17th-century Europe—across the pond. Lawns originally started as a way for wealthy folks to show off their land. Picture grand estates with perfectly trimmed grass, almost like carpets, surrounding royal palaces. Those green spaces weren’t just for looks, either. Back in the day, they also helped keep away unwanted critters because the short grass made it easier to spot them sneaking around. Fancy, right?

Fast Forward to America

Lawns made their way to America in the 1800s, but it wasn’t until the 1940s and the rise of suburban neighborhoods that the real love affair with lawn care began. After World War II, homeownership skyrocketed, and with it came the dream of a perfect lawn—because nothing says “I made it” quite like a manicured patch of green.

Texas, with its wide-open spaces, was the perfect playground for this new obsession. And let’s face it, Texans love to do things big, including lawns. But don’t forget, keeping grass green in the Texas heat is no small feat!

The Lawn Mower Revolution

Up until the early 1900s, maintaining lawns meant hiring workers or even livestock to keep that grass short. Then, the push mower was invented—thank goodness. By the time gas-powered mowers rolled in during the 1950s, lawn care as we know it was in full swing. It became a weekend tradition: fire up the grill, mow the lawn, then kick back and enjoy the view.

Today’s Turf Talk

Nowadays, lawn care in Texas is serious business. Between the tough climate, limited water, and endless bugs, it’s not for the faint of heart. But we’ve adapted—hello, drought-resistant grasses! We Texans know how to keep that lawn looking fresh, from organic fertilizers to eco-friendly irrigation systems. Lawns are still a symbol of pride, community, and the perfect spot for a backyard BBQ.

Need a Hand?

Looking for tips on how to maintain your East Texas lawn or need professional help? Onward Lawn Co. can assist with all of your lawn maintenance needs!