Salt Lake City Public Utilities is now selling a specialized grass seed blend to customers within its service area. The seed mix was developed through a partnership with Utah State University and the Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance to provide a more water-efficient option for local lawns.
The grass blend consists of a cool-season mix of tall fescue and bluegrass that is specifically suited for the Wasatch Front. According to the utility, this mix requires at least 30% less water than a typical Kentucky Bluegrass lawn. While a standard bluegrass lawn requires 24 to 30 inches of water during the growing season, this blend requires between 15 and 19 inches.
The seed is being sold at cost for $18.23 plus tax for a 5-pound bag, which covers 1,000 square feet. To purchase the seed, customers must provide their water service account number. Once payment is completed, customers will receive notification regarding pick-up dates.
The Turfgrass Water Conservation Alliance (TWCA) provides third-party qualification for drought-tolerant turfgrasses. The TWCA-qualified varieties are identified as reducing water requirements by at least 30% compared to conventional cultivars.
Planting is recommended between April 1 and October 1, with October 1 noted as a preferred date. Once the grass is established in approximately three to four weeks, the utility suggests adjusting irrigation controllers to water 30% less, such as scheduling one watering per week at a rate of 1/2 inch.
The initiative follows a renovation at a Salt Lake City Public Utilities facility where the landscape was reduced by 50% through the use of low-water trees, shrubs, flowers, and the new grass seed. The utility noted that such changes can help support soil health, sequester carbon, and mitigate the heat island effect.
