Grass lawns are the default for most yards, but some people prefer alternatives, such as ornamental landscaping, low-maintenance groundcovers or pollinator-welcoming spaces.
“Maybe you have a lawn full of difficult-to-control weeds, like annual bluegrass or rough bluegrass, and you want to start over,” says Alec Kowalewski, turfgrass specialist with the Oregon State University Extension Service. “Or maybe you want to switch from grass to lawn alternatives.”
In either case, you need to first remove the existing grass. Alec offers two approaches: an organic technique that uses no pesticides and a chemical method.
The organic method begins with placing plastic sheeting on top of the grass.
“You need something that will totally stop the gas exchange of the atmosphere,” Alec says. “You’re essentially suffocating the plant.”
In the summer heat, it could take two to three weeks to kill the grass. Remove the plastic once the grass is dead.
The conventional method is to spray a nonselective herbicide, such as glyphosate, on the grass in early morning. Keep it away from other plants. Apply again two weeks later to kill dormant weed seeds that may have germinated.
Alternatives to glyphosate include Organic Materials Review Institute-listed products with vinegar or acid. When applying pesticides, always wear protective clothing. Follow the instructions on the pesticide label carefully.
No matter which method you choose, Alec recommends cutting down the dead grass with a mower when it turns brown and then aerating the lawn.
Because living root parts might still remain underground, it’s wise to completely remove any sod as well. Rent a hand- or gas-powered sod cutter to separate the sod from the soil. Adjust the blade depth to ¼ to ½ inch. Afterward, rake up sod with a square shovel or pitchfork.
Throw discarded sod and grass in the garbage or compost it. With the old turfgrass successfully removed, you are ready to establish your new landscape.
Consider Creating a Pollinator Garden
Now that the hard part of removing your lawn is done, consider transforming your yard into a habitat for pollinators.
Prepare the soil. Once you’ve cleared the area, add organic matter or compost to the soil to improve its fertility and structure. This helps support a variety of plants that attract pollinators.
Plan your space. Decide how much area you want to dedicate to the garden. It’s beneficial to create diverse habitats. Consider incorporating groups of plants— such as wildflowers, shrubs and trees—that bloom at different times throughout the growing season.
Select pollinator-friendly plants. Choose a variety of native flowering plants that bloom from early spring to late fall. This ensures a continuous food source.
Create a planting strategy. Plant in groups of the same species to make it easier for pollinators to find your garden. Ensure your plants are situated in sunny areas, as most pollinator plants prefer full sun. Leaving some areas of bare ground provides nesting sites for native bees.
Attract nature and maintain. Include a water source, such as a birdbath or small shallow dish, and maintain the garden with minimal pesticide use.
Information courtesy of Oregon State University Extension Service.