Evaluate and Prepare - Starting Your Lawn All Over

Are you an eco-conscious homeowner looking to create a beautiful, lush lawn that's both visually appealing and environmentally friendly? If your lawn is struggling with weeds, diseases, or bare patches, it might be time to consider a complete renovation. In this article, we'll explore what a lawn renovation entails, why and when it's necessary, and the basic steps to prepare your lawn for seeding.

If you live in the South, you have warm season grass which is usually replaced with sod.  If you live in the North and transition areas you probably have cool season grass that is replaced with seed.  This article is for cool-season gras renovation and not about sod.

First, Evaluate Your Lawn

Not sure if you need to renovate or just spot seed? Before deciding to renovate, assess the current state of your lawn. Some common issues that may warrant a complete lawn renovation include:

• An overwhelming presence of weeds, such as poa trivialis or poa annua, which are difficult to control without harming the desired grass
• Persistent grass diseases that cause the lawn to deteriorate year after year
• Extensive damage from construction projects or the installation of new irrigation systems or a pool

Why Renovate Your Lawn?

A healthy, well-maintained lawn offers numerous environmental benefits. It helps reduce soil erosion, filters pollutants from the air and water, and even helps cool the surrounding area.  Landscapes add 10-15% to the value of your home.

However, when your lawn is overrun with weeds or suffering from disease, it can't perform these vital functions effectively. In such cases, a complete lawn renovation may be the best solution. A healthy thick lawn will keep weeds down so you won't be tempted to use chemical herbicides to keep them under control. 

When Lawn Renovation Makes Sense

For most cool-season grasses, the ideal time to renovate and reseed your lawn is in the fall, typically around August 15th (IF you live in the North like Minnesota -Michigan for example). This timing allows for 10 to 12 weeks of growth before the first frost, giving your new grass the best chance to establish a strong root system. Check your local weather data to determine the average first frost date in your area and plan accordingly working backwards. While spring renovation is possible, it can be more challenging due to increased weed pressure and watering requirements. 

Preparing for Your Eco-Friendly Lawn Renovation

Before you begin the renovation process of killing your grass, gather all the necessary materials, such as grass seed, starter fertilizer, and any equipment you may need to rent.  Don't kill your lawn until you have everything gathered up.

Research the best grass varieties for your area and choose a seed mix that is well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.  This is really important for green living.  There are low growing grasses that don't need as much mowing, varieties that need less water, drought resistant, etc. Choosing a grass will have to be another article.

Consider using organic or low-impact starter fertilizers to minimize environmental impact. Start shopping for these materials at least 6 weeks before your planned renovation date to ensure you have everything you need before you start killing off the existing grass.

Step 1: Kill the Existing Grass and Weeds

To start fresh, you'll need to kill off the existing grass and weeds. The most effective method is to apply a glyphosate-based herbicide, such as generic Roundup (glyphosate 41%), following the label instructions carefully. For a complete kill, mix the concentrate according to the label rate and apply it slowly, using approximately 1 gallon of water per 300 square feet. This is a slower application rate than most weed control treatments, so be sure to calibrate your sprayer accordingly.

Adding a natural ionic surfactant will help the product adhere to the leaves and improve coverage. Consider using a blue dye to mark treated areas and prevent missed spots. These are available to buy, but you can use some food coloring or natural dye to do the same thing. As long as it helps you see where you have treated so you get complete coverage, it will work.

After the first application, wait 5-7 days to assess the results. If the grass is browning within 2-3 days, you may have over-applied the herbicide and will need to reapply sooner to stay on schedule. Typically, you'll see the full effects within 7-10 days, depending on temperature.

Once the initial treatment has taken effect, water the lawn regularly to encourage any remaining weed seeds to germinate. After 2 weeks of watering, apply a second round of natural herbicide to ensure a complete kill. You may need to spray more than twice to eliminate persistent weeds like sedge. There are several natural herbicides available for sale. They are non-selective and kill everything, so perfect to use in this situation.

Step 2: Bring in Topsoil or Sand (if needed)

If your lawn requires significant leveling or your soil is poor quality, you may need to bring in topsoil or sand. However, be aware that these materials can harbor weed seeds. To minimize new weed growth, kill off the existing grass and weeds at least 4 to 6 weeks before adding new soil. After incorporating the topsoil or sand, water the area and apply another round of weed/grass killer to eliminate any newly germinated weeds.

The last thing you want to do is a total lawn renovation and then have it fill back up with weeds before the grass seed even has a chance to fill in.  Don't get in a hurry.  If you have to spray it several timescouraging the weed seeds to germinate between each spray, just keep spraying until there aren't anymore weeds coming up.

Step 3: Level and Prepare the Soil

Leveling your lawn during renovation can help prevent drainage issues and create a more even surface for your new grass. If the existing grass is tall or thatchy, begin by scalping the lawn, cutting it as low as possible to expose the soil. If the grass is particularly thick, consider dethatching and raking away the dead material.

Next, use a soil test to determine the organic matter content and pH of your soil, and incorporate amendments like compost or lime as needed. Spread the topsoil or sand evenly using a motorized soil spreader, rake, or drag, filling in low spots and creating a smooth surface. For smaller lawns or tight corners, a level rake and wheelbarrow or Gorilla cart can be used to distribute the soil. 

After leveling, use a lawn roller to compact the soil and create a firm seedbed. This will help prevent the soil from shifting during rain and ensure good seed-to-soil contact. If you plan to offer seeding services regularly, investing in a lawn roller can quickly pay for itself. If you're just starting out, consider renting one for your renovation project.

The Benefits of a Renovated Lawn

By renovating your lawn, you're not only creating a more attractive outdoor space but also contributing to a healthier environment. A lush, well-maintained lawn can:

• Reduce soil erosion and runoff
• Filter pollutants from the air and water
• Provide a cooling effect, reducing urban heat islands
• Create a habitat for beneficial insects and microorganisms
• Improve your home's curb appeal and value

While a lawn renovation may seem daunting, the long-term benefits for both your property and the environment make it a worthwhile investment. By following these steps and using eco-friendly products and practices, you can create a beautiful, sustainable lawn that you'll enjoy for years to come.

Remember, a complete lawn renovation can take 6-8 weeks or more, so be prepared for your lawn to look less than ideal during this process. However, with patience and proper care, you'll soon have a lush, green lawn that is the envy of the neighborhood.