The practice of having lawns dates back to medieval times when the grass was kept short around castles so guards could have a clear view of approaching enemies. These grasslands were often cut by hired servants or by grazing animals. Trees were cut down and other obstacles removed to create a large open area so advancing armies could be spotted at a great distance. This practice allowed soldiers within the castle ample time to prepare for battle. The last thing these kings and lords wanted were enemy forces sneaking through wooded areas or tall overgrown grasslands and overtaking their forces with no warning. It was much easier to spot an enemy force approaching your walls when there was no where for them to take cover.
The climate of western and northern Europe at the time allowed grasslands to grow naturally. When areas around castles were kept clear of trees, grasses sprouted naturally in full sun providing a ground cover. The word lawn comes from the Middle English word launde, which meant an opening in the forest where grass was able to grow naturally.
Lawns in this era were actually grasslands that might be similar to fields or more accurately meadows with wild flowers and a mix of ground covers.
Farmers would often use open areas as well for growing crops or raising livestock; however, as grassy areas grew in popularity, the lawns of the wealthy were far more for show.
As the practice of maintaining a lawn began to spread throughout Europe more wealthy families would grow lawns on their properties as a status symbol. Having a manicured lawn signified money and power as it took many hired hands to cut the grass with a scythe and to keep the lawn clean.
As Europeans began settling in North America they brought their love of a lawn with them. We still have a true love for lawns in today's society. We crave a lush, green patch of grass to call our own. Healthy beautiful lawns signify a sense of pride and success and are often used as a status symbol. Lawns offer areas for families, pets and children to play; lawns also provide relaxation and for some offer up the hobby of lawn care.
While we no longer need worry about invading enemy armies marching across vast acreage of land to lay siege to our medieval castles; we can still find many uses for our modern day lawns. Of course our lawns today look much different than those of medieval castle dwellers. Today we cover our lawns with chemicals to kill weeds and only grow a few desirable grass types. It was not until the 1940s that weed killers were introduced to homeowners who were being convinced that they needed a weed free lawn. Prior to the introduction of weed killer most lawns were a mix of grasses and clover.
Of course, most lawns today are much smaller in size than the grasslands surrounding castles in medieval times; however, even a small suburban lawn can make homeowners feel like the king, or queen of their own castle.