Keep Off the Grass Day is celebrated on April 21 every year. Created by a woman named Jace Shoemaker-Galloway, this holiday has been observed since 2013. “Keep off the grass” signs have often been used by people to prevent their lawns from being trampled on and to prevent trespassing. Grass has been maintained and used for decorative and protective purposes since the Middle Ages, especially in Europe where they featured around castles and wealthy homes. Today, many homes in America maintain lush lawns for decorative purposes.
History of Keep Off the Grass Day
Keep Off the Grass Day took place for the first time in 2013. The holiday was invented by Jace Shoemaker-Galloway, a freelance writer who specializes in creating unusual holidays. As for the phrase “Keep off the grass,” it is often written on signs placed on lawns to keep people from trampling on the grass.
The word ‘lawn’ is derived from the Middle English ‘launde,’ which refers to an open glade in the woods. Later, the word came to include artificial stretches of land, which bore similarities to glades. During Medieval times, lawns were usually found around castles in Britain and France. They were usually devoid of trees so guards could have an unobstructed view of the surroundings and be adequately warned of any attacks or threats. Alternatively, lawns also referred to the village commons for sheep and cattle grazing. In the 16th century, during the Renaissance era, wealthy homes often maintained lawns, especially in Britain and France. However, instead of planting grass, herbs such as chamomile and thyme were planted.
In the 17th century, closely shorn grass lawns became a fixture in the homes of the wealthy and were seen as a status symbol. At the time, lawnmowers and other machinery hadn’t been invented yet so the work of trimming grass fell to laborers or servants. Only prosperous landowners could afford the expense of hiring laborers, which is why lawns became symbols of wealth in England. In the 19th century, lawnmowers came onto the scene. In 1830, Edwin Beard Budding invented the first lawnmower in Brimscombe and Thrupp, England. This invention has since become a staple piece of equipment in many households, easing the work of maintaining lawns considerably.
Keep Off the Grass Day timeline
Medieval castles maintain treeless lawns for security purposes.
Wealthy landowners maintain lawns around their homes.
Closely shorn grass becomes popular in Britain and France.
The first lawnmower is invented by Edwin Beard Budding.
Keep Off the Grass Day FAQs
What powers a lawnmower?
Depending on the build, a lawnmower can be powered by electricity or gas.
What is the best season to plant lawn grass?
Cool-season grass should be planted during the fall, and warm-season grasses should be planted during late spring and early summer.
What is the best height for lawn grass?
Ideally, lawn grass should be between 2½ to four inches long.
Keep Off the Grass Day Activities
Put up a sign
You can observe this day by putting up a “Keep off the grass” sign on your lawn. This will prevent people from stepping on the grass.
Maintain your lawn
Maintain your lawn by regularly trimming and watering it. If the grass is greener on the other side, it’s because someone’s maintaining it.
Spread the word
Spread the word about Keep Off the Grass Day by posting about it on social media. Let others know what today celebrates.
5 Best Species Of Lawn Grass
Bluegrass
Also known as Kentucky bluegrass, this grass is dense and lush, making it the perfect choice for those wanting a beautiful garden.
Bentgrass
Commonly used on golf courses, Bentgrass is a high-maintenance type of grass, possessing a soft texture and beautiful color.
Bermuda grass
Bermuda is a warm-season grass that needs to be watered frequently.
Dichondra
Shaped like little leaves, this is a dense species that provides perfect cover for the ground.
Tall fescue
With a coarse texture, this grass is dark green in color and fares quite well when exposed to heat.
Why We Love Keep Off the Grass Day
Trespassing is prevented
“Keep off the grass” signs alert people when they’ve encroached on the property of others. These helpful signs reduce instances of trespassing.
Lawns are decorative
There’s nothing prettier than the sight of a lush, green, well-kept lawn. Lawns can be beautiful additions to a property.
Plants help the environment
The positive effect of plants on our environment cannot be overemphasized. Science proves that maintaining a healthy lawn helps purify the air, reduce erosion, improve soil, decrease temperatures, and trap carbon dioxide.
Keep Off the Grass Day dates
Year | Date | Day |
---|---|---|
2025 | April 21 | Monday |
2026 | April 21 | Tuesday |
2027 | April 21 | Wednesday |
2028 | April 21 | Friday |
2029 | April 21 | Saturday |