How to Kill Grass for a Garden

Creating a garden often requires removing the existing grass. There are several methods to achieve this, each with its pros and cons. This article will explore these methods in detail so you can choose the best one for your garden project.

Manual Removal

Manual removal involves physically digging out the grass. This method requires time and physical effort but is highly effective and environmentally friendly. You will need a spade or a sod cutter to get started.

• Moisten the soil a day before you start. This makes it easier to remove the grass and the roots.
• Use a spade to cut the grass into manageable sections. Smaller sections are easier to lift and remove.
• Slide the spade or sod cutter under the grass, being careful to get as much of the roots as possible. Removing the roots is essential to prevent regrowth.
• Shake off any excess soil from the grass to leave as much of the soil in your garden as possible.
• Dispose of the grass. It can be composted or added to a green waste bin.

Smothering

Another effective method involves smothering the grass to deprive it of sunlight. This method is less labor-intensive but takes more time. Materials like cardboard, newspaper, or plastic sheeting are typically used.

• Cut the grass as short as possible. A lawnmower can be useful for this step.
• Cover the area with a thick layer of cardboard or newspaper. Ensure that the material overlaps so no light gets through.
• Weigh down the covering material with soil, compost, or mulch to keep it in place.
• Leave the covering in place for six to eight weeks. During this time, the grass will die due to lack of sunlight.
• Remove the covering material and dig out any remaining grass or weeds.

Solarization

Solarization uses the sun’s heat to kill grass and other soil pathogens. This method is useful in areas with intense, consistent sunlight.

• Water the area thoroughly to enhance heat conduction in the soil.
• Cover the grass with clear plastic sheeting. Black plastic can also be used, but clear plastic tends to be more effective for solarization.
• Seal the edges of the plastic with soil or rocks to trap heat inside.
• Allow the plastic to remain for four to six weeks during the hottest part of the year. The heat will kill the grass and many soil pathogens.
• Remove the plastic and check to ensure the grass is dead. If any areas remain green, repeat the process.

Herbicides

Using herbicides is a quicker method but comes with environmental and health concerns. If you choose this method, follow safety guidelines to minimize risk.

• Select a non-selective herbicide that kills all plant life. Glyphosate is a common choice, but there are organic options as well.
• Read the herbicide’s instructions carefully. Ensure you understand the application process and safety precautions.
• Apply the herbicide to the grass. For best results, do this on a dry, calm day to prevent the herbicide from drifting to other plants.
• Allow the herbicide to work for one to two weeks. The grass will begin to yellow and die as the active ingredients take effect.
• Once the grass is dead, remove it and any remaining roots to prepare the area for planting.

Vinegar

Vinegar is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical herbicides. It is especially effective in smaller areas and provides a non-toxic solution to killing grass.

• Select a vinegar with a high acetic acid concentration. Household vinegar (5% acetic acid) can work, but horticultural vinegar (20% acetic acid) is more effective.
• Transfer the vinegar into a spray bottle or garden sprayer.
• Spray the vinegar directly onto the grass. Concentrate on covering the blades thoroughly.
• Repeat the application every few days as needed. The grass should start to die within a week.
• Once the grass is dead, remove it and any remaining roots before planting your garden.

Boiling Water

Boiling water is a simple and natural method for killing grass, especially in small areas. This method is easy to execute but requires caution to avoid burns.

• Boil a large pot of water.
• Carefully pour the boiling water directly onto the grass. Be thorough to ensure you cover the entire area.
• Wait a few days and observe the results. The grass should start to turn brown and die quickly.
• Repeat as necessary to kill any remaining patches of grass.
• Remove the dead grass and roots before starting your garden.

Composting Grass

If you decide to compost the removed grass, ensure it does not regenerate in the compost pile.

• Chop the grass into smaller pieces. This speeds up composting and makes it easier to manage.
• Mix the grass with other compost materials. A good balance between greens (like grass) and browns (like leaves or paper) is essential.
• Monitor the compost pile for any signs of regrowth. Turn the pile regularly to ensure good aeration and even decomposition.
• Once fully decomposed, you can use the compost to enrich the soil in your new garden.