Dean of Green: Capitola man specializes in dyeing drought-stricken lawns

Steve Thomas is the Dean of Green.

For this Capitola resident, business is booming thanks to the drought.

About four months ago, he got started dyeing people’s dry, brown lawns a bright vibrant green. Now he’s taking calls left and right.

He uses an organic, eco-friendly dye to do so, of course.

Thomas decided to launch his business when he started seeing a need for an affordable way to get a green lawn while still conserving water. Already, he has had more than 50 clients.

It’s quick, inexpensive,” he says. “An average lawn costs about $100.”

Brian Romac recently had his lawn dyed.

“You can walk on it and treat it as real turf,” said Romac.

He says it looks so real, his friends and family thought he was trying to pull one over on them.

“They don’t believe it at first and have to examine it very closely,” Romac said.

Thomas says the process is pretty simple. It’s easy to apply and it’s economical; more importantly, it’s a way for folks to maintain the appearance of healthy green grass while still doing their part to conserve water.

He says his customers save around 30-40 dollars each month on their water bill, and there’s no maintenance needed on the dye.

He guarantees it through the season. Even if it rains, the color is supposed to last.