Grass removal is often the first step in transforming your outdoor space, whether you’re building a patio, planting a garden, laying a path, or replacing your lawn. Removing established grass gives you a clean slate for hardscaping and eliminates competition for water and nutrients.
Our guide will walk you through the various methods for removing grass, including both manual and mechanical removal methods. We also rounded up some ideas for what to do next, from grass disposal and soil preparation to alternative ground covers.
Assessing Your Grass Removal Project
Before diving into grass removal, determine the scale of your project. This step will help you choose the most appropriate method and tools for the job.
For smaller projects, such as creating a new flower bed or expanding an existing garden, manual removal is a more precise and cost-effective option. For bigger projects, like removing an entire lawn or clearing a sizable plot for a new landscape design, mechanical removal becomes the better choice.
While mechanical methods may require more planning and upfront investment, their efficiency is often worth it for larger projects. If you need to clear more than 100 square feet, we recommend investing in power tools.
Essential Tools for Grass Removal
For small-scale projects, manual tools are often sufficient. Here’s what you should have on hand:
- Grub hoe: Ideal for chopping through roots and removing turf
- Spade or shovel: Useful for edging and lifting sod
- Garden fork: Helps loosen soil and remove grass roots
- Wheelbarrow: Essential for transporting removed grass
Alternatively, you can purchase or rent a few power tools to make the job quicker and easier:
- Sod cutter: Quickly severs grass roots over large areas
- Rototiller: Useful for breaking up soil after grass removal
- Power edger: Helps define borders of removal areas
Preparation Steps Before Grass Removal
Follow these steps to prep for your grass removal project:
- Mark the area. Clearly outline the area where grass will be removed using spray paint or stakes and string. This helps maintain straight lines and ensures you remove only the intended grass.
- Check for underground utilities. Before digging, always contact your local utility companies to mark any underground lines. The easiest way to do this is by dialing 811, the national “Call Before You Dig” hotline. This free service will connect you to your local one-call center, which then notifies the relevant utility companies to mark underground lines with paint or flags within a few business days.
- Water the area. Watering the area a day before removal can moisten the soil, making it easier to work with. Softened soil allows for easier cutting and reduces strain on your tools and muscles.
Always wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety glasses, and sturdy footwear.
Methods for Removing Established Grass
There are several effective methods for removing established grass, each suited to different project sizes and timelines.
Using a Grub Hoe
For small areas, a grub hoe is an effective manual tool. This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook recommends this technique. With a quick chop, the hoe’s 8-inch-wide blade cuts through roots. A tug on the handle rips turf out of the ground.
Resist the temptation to swing the tool like a pickax, as your back and arms could give out before the job is done. Instead, take short swings, just hard enough to penetrate the root layer—a couple of inches deep, at most. Walk forward as you work so the cut pieces of sod don’t cover up the grass to be removed.
Operating a Sod Cutter
For larger areas, a gas-powered sod cutter is the way to go. Using a wide, narrow blade that swings back and forth just below root level, a sod cutter swiftly severs roots, clearing a swath of grass in one swift pass.
To use a sod cutter, adjust the blade depth to just below the root level, usually 1–2 inches. Start the machine and guide it in straight lines across your lawn. Then roll up the strips of sod and replant them elsewhere if you wish.
Chemical Removal Methods
Chemical herbicides can be used to kill grass but should be considered a last resort due to environmental concerns. If you decide to use this method, choose a non-selective herbicide and be mindful of the potential impact on surrounding plants and soil health.
Apply the herbicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Wait for the grass to die completely, which usually takes one to two weeks, then remove dead grass and roots.
Solarization Technique
Solarization is an eco-friendly method that uses the sun’s heat to kill grass. Start by mowing the grass as short as possible and watering the area thoroughly. Then cover the grass with clear plastic sheeting, securing the edges with stakes or soil. Leave the cover in place for four to six weeks during hot weather to kill the grass.
Sheet Mulching
Sheet mulching, also known as lasagna gardening, smothers grass by layering organic materials over it. This method enhances soil fertility and reduces weed growth but takes longer to complete than chemical removal or solarization.
Start by mowing the grass to an even level. Lay down a thick layer of cardboard or newspaper, then cover with compost, grass clippings, and straw. Allow the compost and cardboard to decompose over several months.
Disposing of Removed Grass
Once you’ve removed the grass, you’ll need to decide what to do with it. Here are a few options to consider:
- Replanting sod: If you used a grub hoe or sod cutter and the removed sod is healthy, consider replanting it. You can use it to patch bare spots in other areas of your lawn or create a new lawn in a different location. Be sure to prep the area by loosening the soil and watering it well after laying the sod. Alternatively, you offer the sod to neighbors or local gardening groups who may need it.
- Composting: Grass clippings and sod can be excellent additions to your compost pile—as long as you didn’t use any chemical treatments. To compost removed grass, break sod into smaller pieces, then mix with brown materials such as leaves or cardboard. Turn the pile regularly for faster decomposition.
- Mulching: If you have a wood chipper or access to one, you can mulch the grass and sod. The mulch can then be used in your garden or landscape beds to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
- Green waste disposal: Many municipalities have green waste collection programs. Check with your local waste management service to see if they accept grass and sod. They may provide curbside pickup or drop-off locations. Some areas even have recycling centers that turn yard waste into mulch or compost.
Post-Removal Soil Preparation
After removing the grass, it’s time to prep the soil for your new landscaping project. Use a rototiller or garden fork to break up the soil to a depth of 6–8 inches. This improves drainage and aeration, creating an ideal environment for new plants or grass.
Next, you can improve soil quality by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. This enhances nutrient content and soil structure. Consider getting a soil test to determine if any specific amendments are needed.
Once the soil is tilled and amended, rake it to create a smooth, even surface. This keeps water from pooling and ensures uniform growth for new plants or grass.
Alternative Ground Covers To Consider
After removing grass, you might want to explore alternatives to traditional lawns. Here are a few low-maintenance and eco-friendly options:
- Clover: Drought-resistant and requires little mowing
- Creeping thyme: Fragrant and tolerates light foot traffic
- Moss: Ideal for shady areas
- Native wildflower meadow: Supports local pollinators
- Rain garden: Helps manage stormwater runoff
- Xeriscaping: Reduces water usage in dry climates
Gravel and stone landscapes also offer a durable and low-maintenance solution. They provide excellent drainage and can be used to create pathways, patios, or decorative features.
Timeline and Tips for Grass Removal
Spring is ideal for grass removal if you plan to replant immediately. The soil is workable, and new plants have time to establish before summer heat.
Fall removal, on the other hand, allows time for soil improvement over winter. It’s also a good time to establish cool-season grass or prepare spring planting beds.
Though spring and fall are the most favorable times, grass removal can be done year-round with proper preparation. Just make sure the soil is not too wet or frozen.
Our Conclusion
Removing established grass is an important step in many landscaping projects, opening up possibilities for new designs and plantings. Whether you choose manual removal for small areas or power tools for larger projects, careful planning and execution are key to success. Consider the environmental impact of your chosen method and explore alternatives to traditional lawns where appropriate.
