President Trump’s Green Obsession with Grass
President Donald Trump frequently talks about grass, often more than other major topics like international conflicts or the economy. Since his return to the White House, Trump has consistently discussed his interest in green lawns. At times, he has allocated more time to talking about grass than other pressing issues.
In an interview with The Spectator, shortly after his second inauguration, Trump pointed to the Oval Office window, commenting on the grass outside. He explained plans to pave over much of it, stating it is necessary. This focus has been ongoing, with Trump mentioning grass at least 45 times in public events over 18 months.
Trump’s prolonged discourse about grass reflects his background as a New York real estate developer and his passion for building and overseeing construction. It also indicates how much time he dedicates to golf and efforts to transform Washington and the White House. During his first term, he discussed grass only 26 times.
The White House didn’t provide comments for this story. However, Trump has shared his knowledge and interest in grass in his own words, crediting his ownership of numerous golf courses for his expertise.
“I know a lot about grass because I own a lot of golf courses,” Trump stated in an announcement last August.
He even claimed to know more about grass than anyone else during a conversation with park police officers.
Matt Koch, a lawns research fellow from Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, met Trump to discuss new grass for the White House’s South Lawn. Koch, proud of being a “grass nerd,” praised the president’s knowledge and engagement in their discussion.
Trump has brought up grass in various contexts, ranging from social media posts to discussions on TikTok executive orders, Thanksgiving ceremonies, and international forums. In one memorable instance, he humorously recalled women complaining about their high heels getting stuck in the White House’s grassy areas.
The addition of a new helipad and a UFC octagon on the White House lawn has further emphasized grass removal. Trump explained that the helicopter laydown resulted in turf being uprooted, necessitating more robust grass solutions.
Scotts Miracle-Gro donated $1 million to help restore the South Lawn. During a meeting with Koch, Trump carefully chose a custom turfgrass blend, showing his interest and understanding of golf course turf management.
The president, along with Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, continues to show interest in enhancing parks and lawns around Washington. He often compares the future aesthetics of these parks to Augusta, an iconic golf course known for meticulous grounds management.
Bert McCarty, a Clemson University professor specializing in turfgrass science, highlights that Trump’s affinity for grass is akin to many golf enthusiasts who appreciate the diverse challenges and aesthetics of courses. Trump aspires for Washington’s parks to resemble top-notch courses like Augusta but even compares them to his own Trump National Golf Club, asserting they will look better.