We’ll Remove All Grass, Weeds & Lawn Vegetation Prior to Installation
Our full-service lawn removal process usually takes about 1-3 weeks, depending on your lawn size and the time of year. Chemical treatments work faster in warmer months, but rain can sometimes slow things down, so extra applications may be needed. Once we kill off the existing grass and vegetation, we’ll scalp, scarify and till the lawn, and haul away any debris.
Why Is Sod Removal Important?
By clearing away existing vegetation, we ensure the best possible conditions for your new sod to thrive. Here are some key reasons why this step is so important:
Avoid Hot Spots from Debris
Leftover debris such as construction materials, old roots, or landscaping waste beneath the surface can cause uneven growth and “hot spots,” where grass struggles to establish. Removing sod ensures a clean foundation.
Reduce Weed Pressure and Competition
Existing weeds and grass can compete with your new sod for vital resources like water, sunlight, and nutrients. Removing them minimizes this competition and helps your new lawn flourish.
Improve Root-to-Soil Contact
For sod to establish properly, its roots need direct contact with the soil. Removing old sod creates a smooth, clean surface, giving the new grass the best chance to develop strong roots.
Loosen Soil for Better Drainage
Removing old vegetation allows us to loosen the soil, improving drainage and creating pathways for water, air, and nutrients to reach the roots of your new sod more effectively.
Address Existing Lawn Issues
Sod removal can help address other hidden issues like compacted soil, poor grading, or pest infestations. Starting with a clean slate gives your lawn the fresh start it needs.
Here’s How Our Sod Removal Process Works
1. Measure and Prepare:
First, we measure your lawn to figure out how much product we’ll need and check the weather forecast to pick a day with ideal conditions to begin the removal process. We’ll mark off the project area and flag sprinkler heads, light posts, and anything else we need to work around.
2. Apply Herbicide:
We use non-selective herbicides to kill existing vegetation down to the root. Once we treat the area, we ask that you please keep people and pets off the area for at least 48 hours. Since the herbicide works best on actively growing plants, please avoid mowing within two days of any herbicide application.
3. Monitor Treatment Progress:
Systemic herbicides take around 7 to 14 days to kill plants from the roots up, so don’t worry if you don’t see immediate impacts. Some lawns need an extra application for full coverage. Once the vegetation is mostly dead, we’re ready to start scalping.
4. Scalping and Scarifying the Lawn:
Scalping means mowing down to soil level to get rid of the top layer of grass and thatch. This exposes the soil, making it easier for water and nutrients to reach the new sod roots. Next, we scarify the ground to break up roots and till organic matter into the existing soil. After scalping and scarifying, we clear away any debris, leaving a clean surface.
5. Tilling the Soil:
Tilling is the process of breaking up and loosening the top layer of soil, usually to a depth of 6–8 inches. This step is essential for improving soil aeration and drainage, as well as for blending any organic amendments or fertilizers into the soil. By tilling the soil, we ensure a soft, even surface for the new sod to take root. This process also helps eliminate soil compaction, allowing the roots of your new sod to grow deeper and stronger.
6. Time for Next Steps:
If we’re handling your full lawn renovation, this is when we’ll start on soil prep, sod delivery, and installation.
Are Our Products Safe for Your Family and Pets?
Absolutely! At Floridist, we’re all about keeping your family and pets safe. We’ll provide you with all the details about the products we use, along with instructions for keeping everyone safe.
When Can My Family and Pets Be on the Lawn Again?
To be safe, we recommend keeping people and pets off the treated area for 48 hours after the application, though 24 hours is generally considered enough. This extra time ensures safe, effective treatment.
What’s Next After the Grass is Killed?
Once the grass is dead, we’ll remove any remaining vegetation by scalping the lawn, bagging up, and taking away all debris. Then, we scarify and rototill the soil to improve drainage and support healthy root growth for the new sod. Finally, we add fresh organic topsoil, compost, and nutrients to get the ground ready for installation.
Do You Provide Removal Without Installation?
Yes, if you’re planning a DIY lawn project and want help with the grass removal part, we’re here for you! Just call or text us at 561-941-GROW for a free estimate!