kill grass naturally

Question

I want to kill my grass but want to just have it decompose with out removing it. Is there something I can put on it to have it naturally decompose after I top it with mulch? I was told I could use cardboard or newspaper then mulch on top. I want my grass to decompose without tearing it out. I was told I could use cardboard or newspaper then top off with mulch. Is there something else I could purchase at my nursery that will speed up the process?

Answer 1

The only thing that would be faster than the smother method you just mentioned (which, yes, is slower, but quite effective and much more environmentally friendly) would be for you to use a non-selective herbicide such as glyphosate. Glyphosate is the chemical of choice for most recreational gardeners and you will see it used in many of the best-known herbicides (I dare not mention their names here) that you see at the garden shop. If you do use glyphosate, please follow the warnings and directions carefully.

Answer 2

I used the cardboard and mulch method with complete success. It takes longer but is the least toxic or labor intensive way. I used this method to kill grass in large areas, the first our whole backyard and second a Zen garden in front that is about 500 square feet. We collected the cardboard for a few weeks each time to have enough. After using both the chemicals and the sod cutter in past jobs I’m happy to have found this easy way to get rid of grass.