The grass is always greener in Indio. Or at least on 2,000 acres of the largest turf farm west of the Mississippi, West Coast Turf. This area is perfect for growing sod because of the year-round sunshine, abundant water and cooperative soil.

Sod, or turf farming is a $30 million to $50 million business annually in California. About 5,000 acres of sod are laid statewide each year. In California, turf can be harvested year-round.

Some of West Coast Turf's more well known clients include the Los Angeles Coliseum, the Rose Bowl, and Candlestick Park. They also provided the turf for the new Raley Field, home of the AAA Baseball team the Sacramento RiverCats. The turf used is Bermuda grass, a hot season ground covering, which is reportedly perfect for the rigors of professional sports.

When doing a home lawn, sodding offers immediate gratification, as opposed to seeding. After the sod is in place, you need to make sure it gets enough water and fertilizer.

For more information, contact West Coast Turf at (619) 360-5464. For details on the Sacramento RiverCats, visit www.rivercats.com.