How to Paint Your Lawn Green

For many, the thought of painting a lawn green seems incredulous. For others, however, it is not only believable, it's necessary. For instance, vacant homes that are for sale or undergoing foreclosure can have greatly improved curb appeal with little to no need for upkeep by painting the lawn green. The paint remains for weeks, and is safe for children, pets and the environment. In areas of drought where grass turns brown and dull, painting the lawn adds instant beauty without excessive watering. If you'd like to paint your lawn green, you'll need a few items before starting.

Tape measure

Lawn mower

Grass dye

Water

Backpack sprayer

Drop cloth, cardboard or newspaper

Gloves

Eye protection

Foot protection

Breathing device

Measure the length and width of the area of your yard to be painted. Multiply these two figures to calculate the square footage. Use this number to purchase the correct amount of grass paint.

Allow the grass to dry completely. Also, check the weather forecast for rain and/or gusty wind. Avoid spraying under windy conditions. Grass paint requires two hours of drying time before it becomes waterproof.

Mow your lawn if the grass is excessively long. Bag the clippings.

Protect areas from overspray by applying drop cloths, newspaper or cardboard to fences, driveways, walkways and plants.

Mix the grass dye solution in water according to the package directions. Pour the mixture into your backpack sprayer.

Put on gloves, protective shoes, eye protection and a breathing device before beginning.

Choose a place to begin spraying your grass that allows you easy exit when the project is complete. In other words, don't paint yourself into a corner.

Prime the backpack sprayer several times until it builds up a strong pressure. Adjust the spray nozzle to emit a wide spray. Holding the nozzle about 4 inches above the grass move the spray wand back and forth in a 2-foot square. When the square is completely green, move over and begin spraying another 2-foot square area. Continue this process until you paint the entire area.

Allow the paint to dry for two hours before allowing children, pets or other foot traffic on the grass.

Test an area of your lawn with the grass dye to make sure the color is agreeable.

Dry off moist grass blades with a leaf blower.

Do not apply grass dye without some type of breathing device.

Do not apply grass dye to bare areas because the dye may dry a different color than that of the grass.