How to remove your grass
You’ll want to weigh several factors when choosing how to remove your grass: maintaining soil structure and microbiology, protecting wildlife and insects, ease of use, how much it will cost, and how long it will take. Each method has its pros and cons and all will get you one step closer to a low water landscape. No matter the option you choose, you’ll support pollinators, save natural resources and reduce your water bill in the long run.
Methods
Solarize
This method is most effective in June - August when we experience our hottest temperatures and is one of the low-effort options. The entire process takes 4-8 weeks.
Mow and Cover
As the name implies, this method requires you to withhold water, mow, and cover with compost. This process can take a season or more to kill your grass.
Spray with Herbicide
While this method is relatively fast, easy and cheap, there may be ecologic and health risks. A one-time lawn kill is typically less harmful than the herbicides and pesticides used over time to maintain a grass lawn.
Use a sod cutter
Sod cutters make removing your grass quick, but requires heavy equipment, removes precious organic material, and leaves you with rolls of sod that will end up in the landfill.
Where to get your plants
Luckily for us, a wide variety of plants love the dry, sunny summers and cold winters we have here in Summit County. Many large chain stores carry excellent garden supplies and a selection of plants and seeds that work well in our high alpine environment; however, local nurseries specialize in the best selection of practical plants and seeds that thrive at our elevation.
Intimidated? Hire a Pro
Starting small is always an option. And if you’re still feeling overwhelmed by grass removal and garden designs, that’s okay. Several local landscapers specialize in low water landscapes and efficient irrigation.