Gardening Guide: Removing Dead Grass Before Seeding or Ground Cover Installation

Introduction

When it comes to preparing a lawn or creating a ground cover layer, removing dead grass can significantly enhance the success of your gardening endeavors. This article will explore why dead grass removal is important and how to effectively remove it. Additionally, we will discuss the process of dealing with persistent grass using herbicides and the benefits of ground cover installation.

Why Remove Dead Grass?

Removing dead grass before seeding or installing ground cover is essential for several reasons:

Improved Seed-to-Soil Contact: Clearing the dead grass allows new seeds to make direct contact with the soil, which promotes better germination. Reduced Competition: Dead grass can compete with new grass or ground cover seedlings for nutrients and water, reducing their chances of thriving. Aesthetics: A cleared lawn or ground cover area looks more appealing and helps the new growth establish more quickly.

How to Remove Dead Grass

Raking

Use a rake to remove dead grass and debris. A thatching rake is particularly effective for this task as it can easily remove layer after layer of dead grass.

Mowing

If the dead grass is tall, consider mowing it down before raking. This will make the process much easier and more efficient.

Aerating

Aerating the soil before seeding can also help improve seed penetration and soil health. It allows air, water, and nutrients to reach the roots more effectively.

Once you’ve removed the dead grass, you can prepare the soil by loosening it. This can be done using a garden fork or a tiller. After loosening, proceed with seeding or installing your ground cover.

Killing Persistent Bermuda Grass

Some grass species, like Bermuda grass, can be quite stubborn and challenging to control. Here’s how you can deal with them:

Chemical Treatment

Killing Bermuda grass can be accomplished using a blend of chemicals. For bermuda grass, a mixture of glyphosate and fluazifop is highly effective.

Manual Application: Mix 12.8 oz. of 41% glyphosate per gallon of water and 2/3 of an ounce of commercial grade Fusilade II per gallon of water. Apply these at the maximum rates allowed by law, as indicated on the product labels. Application Schedule: Apply the mixture 5 to 7 days apart to ensure complete coverage and kill the grass effectively.

Note: Always read and follow the label directions exactly to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Preparing the Soil for Ground Cover

After removing dead grass and treating difficult pests, it’s time to prepare the soil for your ground cover:

Loosen the soil using a small tiller, such as a Mantis, to create a suitable environment for the ground cover to take root.

Rake in some 6-6-6 fertilizer at a rate of about 5 pounds per 100 square feet. This will provide essential nutrients for healthy growth.

Ensure you level the ground to provide an even surface for your ground cover to spread.

What About Removing Old Grass Before Ground Cover?

In most cases, it is recommended to remove old grass before installing a new ground cover. However, there are situations where an old grass layer can be managed without complete removal:

Mulch Layers: Using a thick layer of mulch can suppress the growth of old grass. This method works well for certain ground cover types where the mulch helps maintain even moisture and suppress weeds.

Potential Drawbacks: Not all ground cover types are suited for this approach. Plants that require full sunlight or need to establish deep roots may struggle to compete with the mulch and old grass.

By considering these factors, you can choose the most appropriate method for your specific gardening needs.

Conclusion

Removing dead grass before seeding or installing ground cover is a critical step in ensuring a healthy and thriving lawn or garden. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn Bermuda grass or simply enhancing your existing landscape, this guide provides the necessary steps to achieve success.