Increasing numbers of consumers are turning to organic methods to maintain their lawns, according to a 2008 survey by the National Gardening Association.

The survey found that 12 million households are now caring for their lawns and gardens using only non-synthetic products, an increase of 7 million since 2004.

“You can have a gorgeous lush green lawn going naturally,” said Paul Tukey, author of “The Organic Lawn Care Manual.”

Organic lawns will never look the same as lawns maintained with synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, but increasing numbers of consumers are deciding they prefer the natural look.

“Part of it is the whole image of the way people see their lawns,” said Bruce Butterfield of the National Gardening Association. They’re not going to get the country club or golf course look if they use only natural fertilizers.”

Seattle garden consultant Emily Bishton agrees, stating that she encourages her clients to model their lawns on how a natural grassland looks.