Last Updated on November 8, 2022 by ReTurf
Many things have interesting backstories, and AstroTurf is no exception. The artificial turf we see today around sports fields and playgrounds have come a long way from its initial implementations. Learn more about the history of AstroTurf and how it got its name!
The History of “AstroTurf”
In the early 1960s, two Monsanto employees, James M. Faria and Robert T. Wright, invented synthetic Grass. The product was initially sold under the name “ChemGrass,” and was patented in 1965. In 1966, after it was first used at the Houston Astrodome stadium, the product was renamed “AstroTurf” by John A. Wortmann, an employee at the company that owned AstroTurf. Throughout the late 20th century, AstroTurf remained the industry leader; however, in the early 2000s, other companies emerged.
One of these companies marketed a taller-pile polyethylene turf with infill meant to mimic natural Grass more than older products did. As this third-generation turf became known, it changed the marketplace landscape and how people thought about artificial Grass. Where AstroTurf had been seen as a cheap alternative to natural Grass, third-generation turf was seen as a high-quality product in its own right. This shift in perception increased demand for artificial Grass and helped pave the way for continued innovation in the 21st century.
Artificial Turf in the Astrodome
In the 1960s, AstroTurf was created for the Houston Astrodome. The baseball stadium didn’t have any sunlight, so the Grass died. AstroTurf was supposed to be a solution, but it had its problems. Players would get burns from it, and it was expensive to keep up. But over time, people developed better types of artificial Grass that were cheaper and more comfortable to play on. This new fake Grass sparked an exciting idea: could it be used for other things besides sports?
AstroTurf was initially designed to keep Grass from dying in the Astrodome, but it quickly became apparent that AstroTurf had its issues. Players would get burns from sliding on it, and it was expensive to keep up. However, over time, people developed better types of artificial Grass that were cheaper and more comfortable to play on. This new fake Grass sparked an exciting idea: could it be used for other things besides sports? Today, AstroTurf is used in various settings, from public parks to private homes. It is affordable, easy to maintain, and comfortable to walk on. In many ways, AstroTurf has come to redefine what we think of as “grass.”
The Many Uses Of Modern Artificial Turf
Artificial turf is an excellent solution if you’re looking for a low-maintenance lawn alternative or a safe surface for your children to play on. Artificial turf is made from synthetic fibers designed to look and feel like natural Grass. However, unlike natural Grass, artificial turf requires little to no watering, mowing, or fertilizing. In addition, artificial turf is highly durable and can withstand heavy foot traffic. As a result, it is an ideal surface for playgrounds, sports fields, and patios. If you’re interested in purchasing artificial turf, check out ReTurf. We offer a wide selection of new and used turf that will meet your needs.
