Killing and Replacing Grass
Comprehensive Guide to Lawn Renovation: From Grass Removal to New Turf Installation
Before you install new grass, a garden or even a playground you need to make sure your existing grass is really and truly dead. UT Extension Agent Joseph Seago explains the steps for killing the old grass and installing the sod.
Why Remove Existing Grass?
Removing old grass is crucial when you want to install new grass varieties. The main reason is to prevent the old grass from mixing with the new type you're installing. For instance, if you're replacing Bermuda or zoysia grass, it’s essential to eliminate the existing grass completely to avoid competition.
Steps to Remove Old Grass
1. Herbicide:
To effectively kill the existing grass, a glyphosate herbicide mixed with a surfactant is best. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that targets a broad spectrum of plants, while the surfactant helps the solution adhere to the leaves, enhancing its effectiveness. A minimum of two applications are required, spaced about two weeks apart, to ensure thorough eradication. This is especially important for warm-season grasses like Bermuda and zoysia, which can be hard to kill.
2. Removal of Dead Grass:
After the grass has been killed, it needs to be physically removed. This involves digging out the grass and as many roots as possible. For large areas, a skid steer with a bucket can be used, while homeowners might use a shovel or a tiller. Removing the roots, rhizomes and stolons, are critical because remnants can regrow if left behind.
3. Post-Removal Care:
Even after removal, some grass may still sprout from remaining roots. To address this, additional herbicide applications may be necessary—often two to three more times each a week apart—to manage any regrowth. This helps to ensure the area is as clear of old grass as possible.
Preparing for New Turf
1. Soil Preparation:
Once the old grass is removed and not regrowing, it's time to prepare the soil for new turf. This involves testing the soil pH and adjusting it if necessary. A soil test can help determine if amendments are needed. Adding a top soil mix, which typically consists of sand and organic material, is recommended. This mix ensures good drainage, which is crucial for warm-season grasses that do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
2. Laying New Turf:
After leveling the soil and addressing any drainage issues, you can lay down the new turf. In the south, warm-season grasses such as Zoysia and Bermuda are popular choices.
Post-Installation Care
1. Watering:
Proper watering is important for newly laid sod. Keep the soil consistently moist to help the roots establish. Typically, turf grasses take about 7 to 14 days to root into the ground. Regular watering is necessary to maintain the right moisture level but avoid overwatering which can lead to other issues.
2. Ongoing Maintenance:
Once the grass is established, you can begin using and cutting it. Though it doesn’t take long for the grass to root – usually under 14 days – allowing it to grow a bit more before heavy use will help it become more robust and durable.
Educational Opportunities
For homeowners interested in learning more about turf grass and lawn care, local Extension Offices provide no-cost educational resources and demonstrations. If available in your area, visiting a turf plot will allow you to see several kinds of grasses that do well in your area, and see what they look like, how they feel, and how they perform in your area.
Related Videos:
How To Lay Sod
Do I need to kill my existing grass before I lay sod?
Related Resources:
Lawn (Turfgrass) Removal Methods
Sod Installation and Maintenance
Before you install new grass, a garden or even a playground you need to make sure your existing grass is really and truly dead. UT Extension Agent Joseph Seago explains the steps for killing the old grass and installing the sod.
Why Remove Existing Grass?
Removing old grass is crucial when you want to install new grass varieties. The main reason is to prevent the old grass from mixing with the new type you're installing. For instance, if you're replacing Bermuda or zoysia grass, it’s essential to eliminate the existing grass completely to avoid competition.
Steps to Remove Old Grass
1. Herbicide:
To effectively kill the existing grass, a glyphosate herbicide mixed with a surfactant is best. Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide that targets a broad spectrum of plants, while the surfactant helps the solution adhere to the leaves, enhancing its effectiveness. A minimum of two applications are required, spaced about two weeks apart, to ensure thorough eradication. This is especially important for warm-season grasses like Bermuda and zoysia, which can be hard to kill.
2. Removal of Dead Grass:
After the grass has been killed, it needs to be physically removed. This involves digging out the grass and as many roots as possible. For large areas, a skid steer with a bucket can be used, while homeowners might use a shovel or a tiller. Removing the roots, rhizomes and stolons, are critical because remnants can regrow if left behind.
3. Post-Removal Care:
Even after removal, some grass may still sprout from remaining roots. To address this, additional herbicide applications may be necessary—often two to three more times each a week apart—to manage any regrowth. This helps to ensure the area is as clear of old grass as possible.
Preparing for New Turf
1. Soil Preparation:
Once the old grass is removed and not regrowing, it's time to prepare the soil for new turf. This involves testing the soil pH and adjusting it if necessary. A soil test can help determine if amendments are needed. Adding a top soil mix, which typically consists of sand and organic material, is recommended. This mix ensures good drainage, which is crucial for warm-season grasses that do not thrive in waterlogged conditions.
2. Laying New Turf:
After leveling the soil and addressing any drainage issues, you can lay down the new turf. In the south, warm-season grasses such as Zoysia and Bermuda are popular choices.
Post-Installation Care
1. Watering:
Proper watering is important for newly laid sod. Keep the soil consistently moist to help the roots establish. Typically, turf grasses take about 7 to 14 days to root into the ground. Regular watering is necessary to maintain the right moisture level but avoid overwatering which can lead to other issues.
2. Ongoing Maintenance:
Once the grass is established, you can begin using and cutting it. Though it doesn’t take long for the grass to root – usually under 14 days – allowing it to grow a bit more before heavy use will help it become more robust and durable.
Educational Opportunities
For homeowners interested in learning more about turf grass and lawn care, local Extension Offices provide no-cost educational resources and demonstrations. If available in your area, visiting a turf plot will allow you to see several kinds of grasses that do well in your area, and see what they look like, how they feel, and how they perform in your area.
Related Videos:
How To Lay Sod
Do I need to kill my existing grass before I lay sod?
Related Resources:
Lawn (Turfgrass) Removal Methods
Sod Installation and Maintenance