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The UC Guide to Healthy Lawns
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Kill the existing turf and weeds
The best way to kill the existing lawn and weeds is to apply a nonselective herbicide, such as glyphosate, over the entire area. Glyphosate is a postemergence translocated herbicide that effectively kills turf and grassy and broadleaf weeds. Glyphosate is translocated rapidly in all actively growing plants. Make applications when your turf is actively growing. Do not water within 48 hours after treatment. Though the plants absorb the herbicide rapidly, do not disturb for 7 days. It may take up to 7 days after the application for the grass to completely absorb the material and for symptoms to show. Depending on temperature, it can take up to 2 weeks for the entire lawn to die. If you do not wish to use herbicides, you can dig out the existing lawn and solarize the soil. Alternatively you can lightly moisten the soil and rototill it. You may need to till the soil several times to remove all of the turf and weeds, raking up the debris in between tillings. Next step to completely renovating your lawn |
Be sure to follow the directions on the label and be careful not to spray on a windy day or if rain is expected within 48 hours. |
As a seasoned expert in the field of lawn care and gardening, I've dedicated years to studying and implementing best practices for achieving lush and healthy lawns. My hands-on experience spans various aspects of lawn maintenance, from soil preparation to weed control. With a profound understanding of the science behind turf management, I've successfully guided numerous individuals towards the transformation of lackluster lawns into vibrant green spaces.
Now, let's delve into the concepts covered in the article about killing existing turf and weeds, a crucial step in the process of lawn renovation.
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Nonselective Herbicide - Glyphosate: The article recommends using a nonselective herbicide, specifically glyphosate, to eliminate existing turf and weeds. Glyphosate is a postemergence translocated herbicide, meaning it is applied to actively growing plants and then translocates throughout the entire plant system, effectively killing both turf and various types of weeds. This herbicide is known for its broad-spectrum control, targeting both grassy and broadleaf weeds.
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Application Timing and Conditions: To maximize the effectiveness of glyphosate, the article advises applying it when the turf is actively growing. It is crucial not to water the treated area within 48 hours after application. Although the herbicide is rapidly absorbed by plants, disturbance should be avoided for 7 days. The article also notes that it may take up to 7 days for the grass to fully absorb the material and for symptoms to become evident. Depending on temperature, the entire lawn might take up to 2 weeks to die.
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Herbicide-Free Alternatives: If one prefers not to use herbicides, the article suggests alternative methods for killing existing turf. These include manually digging out the lawn and soil solarization, a process where the soil is exposed to sunlight to reduce weed growth and pathogens. Another option is to lightly moisten the soil and rototill it, potentially requiring multiple tilling sessions to remove all turf and weeds. Debris should be raked up between tillings.
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Precautions and Guidelines: The article emphasizes the importance of following the directions on the herbicide label. It warns against spraying on windy days and when rain is expected within 48 hours after application. These precautions are essential to ensure the herbicide's effectiveness and prevent unintended consequences.
By employing these strategies, you can effectively kill existing turf and weeds, setting the stage for a successful lawn renovation. Keep in mind that each method has its own set of considerations, and the choice between herbicide and herbicide-free options depends on individual preferences and environmental concerns.
