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Killing existing turf grass for conversion to native plants #865440

Asked April 22, 2024, 1:31 PM EDT

I am looking for the best way to kill a large area of turf grasses in my drainage ditches (6ft wide x 70ft long and 11ft wide x 56ft long) so that I can replace with native plants (preferably from seed to save on cost). Could you suggest the best way to permanently destroy the grasses that is also environmentally friendly? I was debating about doing the back-breaking work of turning over the turf, versus placing newspaper/cardboard/mulch and waiting at least until June before applying compost and sowing the seeds. Also, could you recommend a place to purchase native seed packets for a large area? One final question, I collected some native seeds last fall and have kept them in the fridge. Would this fall be the best time to sow them so that they can go through stratification? Thanks for your time and expertise!! ~Natalie

Washtenaw County Michigan

Expert Response

Natalie,

One way to kill off a lawn without chemicals is through a process called solarization. You will be using the sun's energy to heat up the soil to kill it. This is best accomplished in the Summer where the Sun can heat up the plastic to 140 degrees. Make sure the grass is mowed on the lowest setting. Then cover with plastic. You will also need to secure the plastic with staples, boards etc. The other way is by applying a chemical liquid available at most garden stores. If you use the chemical format, make sure you follow all directions on the container.

Listed below are sites that will provide more information.

https://www.canr.msu.edu/nativeplants/


https://www.canr.msu.edu/resources/smart_lawns_for_pollinators

Michigan Native Plants Resources

MSU Extension Native Plants and Ecosystem Services
Michigan Native Plants Database (The Native Plant Nursery LLC)
City of Ann Arbor / Native Plants / Natural Area Preservation
Department of Natural Resources / Plants and Trees
Northwest Michigan Invasive Species Network / Native Species
West Michigan Great Lakes Stewardship Initiative
Great Lakes Hummer Net / Native Michigan Hummingbird Plants
University of Michigan LSA Herbarium
Directory of Michigan Seedling Nurseries

Thanks for asking Ask Extension.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied April 23, 2024, 11:37 AM EDT

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